### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâhâl**, represented by `{{H6951}}`, refers to an **assemblage, assembly, company, congregation, or multitude**. Derived from the root verb `qâhal` (to convoke), it appears 123 times in 116 unique verses. This term typically denotes a group that has been specifically gathered for a purpose, whether for war, worship, or civic matters.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6951}}` is used in several distinct ways. It frequently refers to the nation of Israel as a whole, gathered before God, as in "the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel" [[Exodus 12:6]]. This gathering, called "the congregation of the LORD" [[Numbers 16:3]], was central to Israel's religious life, from receiving the law on "the day of the assembly" [[Deuteronomy 9:10]] to the dedication of the temple [[1 Kings 8:14]]. The term also describes God's covenantal promise to make Jacob a "multitude of people" [[Genesis 28:3]]. In a different context, it can signify a military "company" or an "assembly" of enemy nations gathered for battle ([[Jeremiah 50:9]], [[Ezekiel 38:15]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the concept of a gathered people:
* `{{H6950}}` **qâhal**: This is the primitive root verb meaning **to convoke; assemble (selves) (together), gather (selves) (together)**. It is the action that creates a `qâhâl`, as when the people "gathered themselves together" against Moses and Aaron [[Numbers 16:3]].
* `{{H5712}}` **ʻêdâh**: Meaning a **stated assemblage... assembly, company, congregation, multitude, people**. It is often used alongside `qâhâl` to emphasize the entirety of the national and religious gathering of Israel ([[Exodus 12:6]], [[Numbers 14:5]]).
* `{{H5971}}` **ʻam**: This word means **a people (as a congregated unit)**. A `qâhâl` is often formed from an `ʻam`, as seen in the promise that Jacob would become a "multitude `{{H6951}}` of people `{{H5971}}`" [[Genesis 48:4]].
* `{{H6908}}` **qâbats**: A verb meaning **to grasp, i.e. collect; assemble... gather**. It describes the act of bringing a group together, such as when a great "congregation" of men, women, and children "assembled" unto Ezra [[Ezra 10:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6951}}` is tied to the corporate identity of God's people.
* **The Covenant Community:** The `qâhâl` is the formal gathering of the covenant people. The promise to the patriarchs was to become a great `qâhâl` [[Genesis 35:11]]. Membership in this "congregation of God" was sacred and regulated by law, with certain individuals and groups excluded ([[Deuteronomy 23:3]], [[Nehemiah 13:1]]).
* **The Called Assembly for Worship:** The `qâhâl` is the primary context for corporate worship and praise. The Psalms speak of declaring God's praise "in the midst of the congregation" [[Psalms 22:22]] and giving thanks "in the great congregation" [[Psalms 35:18]].
* **Collective Accountability:** The term highlights the collective responsibility of the people before God. An offering could be made for the sin of the entire `qâhâl` [[Leviticus 4:21]], and the whole congregation could face consequences for its actions, as when they were forbidden to enter the promised land [[Numbers 20:12]].
* **A Gathering for Good or Evil:** While often referring to God's holy people, the term can also describe a "congregation of evil doers" [[Psalms 26:5]] or those who will remain in the "congregation of the dead" [[Proverbs 21:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6951}}` is not merely a word for a crowd but signifies a convened, organized body. It defines Israel's identity as a nation called together by God for law, worship, and covenant relationship. Whether describing the assembly of saints praising God, the gathering of an army for war, or the entire nation standing before the Lord, `qâhâl` illustrates the biblical emphasis on the corporate nature of God's dealings with humanity.
TRV