### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qᵉbutsâh**, represented by `{{H6910}}`, denotes a **hoard** or a gathering. Derived as a feminine passive participle from the root word `{{H6908}}`, it appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a very specific and vivid image of collection for a divine purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6910}}` is in [[Ezekiel 22:20]], where it is used in a powerful simile to describe God's judgment. The verse compares the gathering of metals for smelting to the way God will gather the people of Israel. As one would **gather** silver, brass, iron, lead, and tin into a furnace to be melted by fire, so God declares He will gather His people in His anger and fury to melt them in the furnace of judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of this intense gathering:
* `{{H6908}}` **qâbats** (to grasp, i.e. collect; assemble): This is the root verb from which `{{H6910}}` is formed and is used in the same verse. While often used for God's merciful gathering of His scattered people [[Ezekiel 37:21]], in this context it describes the assembling of people for divine wrath [[Ezekiel 22:20]].
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (silver): This precious metal is often used as a metaphor for people who are to be refined [[Malachi 3:3]]. However, in the context of Ezekiel's prophecy, the house of Israel has become the "dross of silver" [[Ezekiel 22:18]], indicating impurity that requires a harsh purging.
* `{{H1270}}` **barzel** (iron): Often symbolizing strength or stubbornness, this word is used to describe Israel's obstinance as an "iron sinew" [[Isaiah 48:4]]. It is also used in the phrase "iron furnace," representing the affliction of Egypt [[Jeremiah 11:4]], a metaphor that echoes the judgment in Ezekiel.
* `{{H5178}}` **nᵉchôsheth** (brass): Associated with strength and judgment, it is used for the brasen serpent [[Numbers 21:9]] and for fortified walls [[Jeremiah 1:18]], highlighting the severity of the situation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6910}}` is concentrated entirely in its single, powerful usage.
* **Judgment as Refining:** The central theme is the use of a furnace not just to purify, but to melt down in anger. The gathering is a prelude to a fiery and transformative judgment upon a people who have become like impure dross [[Ezekiel 22:18]].
* **The Inescapable Gathering:** The list of metals—`{{H3701}}`, `{{H5178}}`, `{{H1270}}`, `{{H5777}}`, and `{{H913}}`—symbolizes the comprehensive nature of the judgment, encompassing all parts of the nation. No one is exempt from this collection.
* **Divine Agency:** The passage makes it clear that God himself is the one performing the action. He states, "...so will I gather you in mine anger and in my fury..." [[Ezekiel 22:20]], emphasizing that this judgment is a direct and purposeful act of God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6910}}` provides a singular but unforgettable image in scripture. While its root verb can speak of a gathering for restoration, **qᵉbutsâh** is used exclusively to define a collection for judgment. It illustrates a hoard of people, likened to impure metals, being brought together by God's own hand to be subjected to the intense heat of His purifying and wrathful fire.
TRV