### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsâbar**, represented by `{{H6651}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to aggregate; gather (together), heap (up), lay up**. It appears 7 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible. The word consistently describes the act of amassing or piling things, whether it be valuable resources, materials for conquest, or the evidence of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6651}}` is used to illustrate several forms of accumulation. It is prominently featured in the story of Joseph, who was instructed to **lay up** corn during the years of plenty [[Genesis 41:35]] and ultimately **gathered** grain in such vast quantities it was like the sand of the sea [[Genesis 41:49]]. The term is also used to describe the amassing of wealth, such as Tyrus, which **heaped up** silver like dust [[Zechariah 9:3]], and the wicked man who **heaps up** silver but will not enjoy it [[Job 27:16]]. The word can also describe a more literal piling, as when the Egyptians **gathered** the plague of frogs into heaps [[Exodus 8:14]] or when an invading army **heaps** dust to capture a stronghold [[Habakkuk 1:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of gathering and accumulation:
* `{{H622}}` **ʼâçaph** (to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away): This word is used in direct contrast to `{{H6651}}` to show the futility of hoarding wealth. A man "heapeth up" (tsâbar) riches, but does not know who "shall gather" (ʼâçaph) them [[Psalms 39:6]].
* `{{H6908}}` **qâbats** (to grasp, i.e. collect; assemble): This word is used alongside `{{H6651}}` in the instructions given to Joseph. The plan was to first "gather" (qâbats) all the food and then "lay up" (tsâbar) the corn under Pharaoh's authority [[Genesis 41:35]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6651}}` centers on the human act of accumulation and its spiritual implications.
* **The Futility of Earthly Wealth:** The act of heaping up riches is presented as a vain and pointless endeavor when done with no regard for one's ultimate destiny. A man heaps up wealth, but has no knowledge of who will ultimately gather it [[Psalms 39:6]].
* **Wise Stewardship and Providence:** In contrast, the heaping up of resources can be an act of wisdom under divine guidance. Joseph's gathering of grain was a direct fulfillment of a plan to preserve life [[Genesis 41:49]].
* **Symbols of Power and Judgment:** The word is used to illustrate both human pride and divine judgment. Tyrus heaps up silver as a display of its own strength [[Zechariah 9:3]], while the heaps of frogs in Egypt serve as a stinking reminder of God's power [[Exodus 8:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6651}}` is a focused term for the act of heaping up or aggregating. It is a practical word that carries significant moral and theological overtones, defining the critical difference between wise preparation and futile hoarding. It illustrates how the physical act of gathering can represent profound spiritual realities, from the provident storage of grain in Joseph's time to the vain accumulation of riches that will ultimately be left behind.
TRV