### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâhal**, represented by `{{H6950}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to convoke; assemble (selves) (together), gather (selves) (together)**. It appears **47 times** across **39 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically denotes the act of bringing a group of people together, often for a significant civil, military, or religious purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6950}}` is used to describe pivotal moments of assembly. God commands Moses to **gather** the people together so they can hear His words and learn to fear Him [[Deuteronomy 4:10]]. Leaders like Solomon **assembled** the elders and heads of tribes for the dedication of the temple and the bringing of the ark of the covenant [[1 Kings 8:1]]. The term can also describe gatherings of opposition, such as when the people **gathered themselves together** against Moses and Aaron [[Numbers 16:3]] or when they **were gathered** against the prophet Jeremiah [[Jeremiah 26:9]]. It is also used in the context of mobilizing for self-defense or war ([[Esther 8:11]], [[Joshua 22:12]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature and composition of the assemblies formed by `{{H6950}}`:
* `{{H6951}}` **qâhâl** (assemblage; assembly, company, congregation, multitude): This noun is the direct product of the action of `{{H6950}}`. For instance, one might **gather** `{{H6950}}` a company `{{H6951}}` for taking prey [[Ezekiel 38:13]].
* `{{H5712}}` **ʻêdâh** (assembly, company, congregation, multitude): This term refers to a stated assemblage and is often used in parallel. Moses was commanded to **gather** `{{H6950}}` the assembly `{{H5712}}` [[Numbers 20:8]], and at his direction, the assembly `{{H5712}}` **was gathered together** [[Leviticus 8:4]].
* `{{H5971}}` **ʻam** (a people (as a congregated unit); folk, men, nation, people): This word often identifies the group being assembled. The people `{{H5971}}` can be the subject who **gather themselves together** [[Exodus 32:1]] or the object being **gathered** by a leader [[Deuteronomy 31:12]].
* `{{H2205}}` **zâqên** (old; aged, ancient (man), elder(-est), old (man, men and...women), senator): The elders are a specific group frequently mentioned as being **assembled** for key leadership and ceremonial functions ([[1 Kings 8:1]], [[Deuteronomy 31:28]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6950}}` is significant, marking key interactions between God and His people.
* **Divine Command:** The act of assembling is frequently initiated by God himself, who commands his leaders to **gather** the people to receive His law, witness consecrations, or hear His words ([[Deuteronomy 4:10]], [[Leviticus 8:3]]). This establishes the community's identity as one called together by God.
* **National Unity:** The term is used to express the unification of Israel for a collective purpose, whether for sacred worship [[1 Chronicles 15:3]] or for unified action, as when the congregation was **gathered together** "as one man" [[Judges 20:1]].
* **Corporate Worship:** Key moments of national worship and dedication are defined by this act of assembling. Solomon **assembled** Israel for the dedication of the temple [[2 Chronicles 5:2]], and the people **assembled** themselves to bless the Lord after a victory [[2 Chronicles 20:26]].
* **Human Opposition:** The word also starkly portrays humanity's capacity to assemble in rebellion against divine authority. This is seen when Korah **gathered** the congregation against Moses and Aaron [[Numbers 16:19]] and when the people of Jerusalem **gathered** against Jeremiah in the house of the Lord [[Jeremiah 26:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6950}}` is more than a simple description of a crowd forming. It denotes the purposeful convoking of a community for definitive action. Whether called by God for worship and instruction, by leaders for civic or military functions, or self-convened in rebellion, the act of being "gathered" is central to the national and spiritual life of Israel. The word illustrates how the collective assembly is a critical theater for the unfolding of God's covenant with His people.
TRV