The Hebrew word qibbûwts, represented by H6899, means a throng or company. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a very specific and focused illustration of its meaning.
In its sole biblical appearance, H6899 is used to describe a collection of things or entities a person might cry out to for help. In Isaiah 57:13, the prophet contrasts these "companies" with trust in God. The verse suggests that these companies are worthless, as the wind will carry them away and "vanity shall take them." This stands in direct opposition to the one who trusts in the LORD, who is promised to "possess the land, and shall inherit my holy mountain."
The single verse where H6899 appears contains several other key words that illuminate its meaning through contrast:
- H2199 zâʻaq (to shriek, cry out): This is the action directed toward the "companies" for help Isaiah 57:13. The same word is used elsewhere to describe a cry to God who provides true help Psalms 107:13.
- H5337 nâtsal (to snatch away, deliver): This is the deliverance the "companies" fail to provide Isaiah 57:13. The scriptures consistently show that it is the LORD who delivers His people Psalms 34:19.
- H5375 nâsâʼ (to lift, carry away): This word describes how the wind will "carry them all away," highlighting the powerlessness of the throng Isaiah 57:13.
- H3947 lâqach (to take): This is what vanity does to the false hopes represented by the companies Isaiah 57:13.
- H3423 yârash (to inherit, possess): This is the reward for trusting in God instead of the companies, as the faithful will "inherit my holy mountain" Isaiah 57:13.
- H5157 nâchal (to inherit, possess): This word reinforces the promise to the faithful, who "shall possess the land," a result unattainable through the companies Isaiah 57:13.
The theological weight of H6899 is derived entirely from its pointed use as a symbol of false hope.
- Futility of False Trusts: The "companies" represent any source of trust outside of God, whether they be idols, human alliances, or personal strengths. The text declares them to be "vanity" Isaiah 57:13.
- The Object of One's Cry: The passage hinges on who or what is being cried H2199 out to. A cry to the "companies" leads to ruin, whereas a cry to the LORD leads to deliverance H5337 and salvation Exodus 3:8.
- Inheritance Through Faith: The ultimate contrast is between what the companies offer and what God promises. Reliance on the throng results in being swept away Isaiah 57:13, but trust in God results in a secure inheritance (H3423, H5157) of His promised land and holy mountain.
In summary, H6899 is a term whose significance is defined by its solitary context. As a "throng" or "company," it serves as a powerful biblical metaphor for any collective entity that people wrongly trust for deliverance. Its only appearance in scripture is to demonstrate its utter failure when compared to the security and promised inheritance that comes from placing one's trust solely in the LORD.
TRV