### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qᵉhillâh**, represented by `{{H6952}}`, refers to **an assemblage, assembly, or congregation**. It is a specific term that appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, yet its usage in these contexts provides a focused look at the identity and function of God's people when gathered together.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{H6952}}` highlight distinct aspects of a gathered community. In Deuteronomy, it defines the collective identity of the Israelite people as the "**congregation** of Jacob" who receive the law from Moses as their inheritance [[Deuteronomy 33:4]]. In Nehemiah, the word is used to describe a "great **assembly**" that Nehemiah established to rebuke the nobles and rulers for their unjust practice of exacting usury from their brethren [[Nehemiah 5:7]]. This shows the term applying to both the nation as a whole and a specific gathering for the purpose of upholding justice.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and purpose of the **qᵉhillâh**:
* `{{H3290}}` **Yaʻăqôb** (Jacob): The name used to identify the people as a whole, defining the **congregation** as the descendants of the patriarch Jacob and inheritors of the covenant [[Deuteronomy 33:4]].
* `{{H4181}}` **môwrâshâh** (inheritance): This term describes what the **congregation** of Jacob receives—the **law** `{{H8451}}` commanded by Moses. This establishes the people's identity around a shared divine heritage [[Deuteronomy 33:4]].
* `{{H2715}}` **chôr** (noble): These individuals of high rank were the subject of the rebuke for which the **assembly** in Nehemiah was gathered, demonstrating the community's role in holding its leadership accountable [[Nehemiah 5:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6952}}` is concentrated on the collective identity and responsibility of the people.
* **A People Defined by Law:** The term is used to frame the people of Israel as a **congregation** whose identity is inseparable from the **law** `{{H8451}}` they received from God. This law is not merely a set of rules but their divine **inheritance** `{{H4181}}` [[Deuteronomy 33:4]].
* **The Assembly as an Agent of Justice:** The gathering of the **assembly** in Nehemiah shows the community's power to confront internal sin and injustice. It was formed to rebuke leaders who were harming their own **brother** `{{H251}}`, reinforcing the idea that the community must protect its members and uphold righteousness [[Nehemiah 5:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6952}}` **qᵉhillâh** is a potent, though rare, term for a gathered people. It describes a group bound together by a common identity as the **congregation** of Jacob and by a shared responsibility to receive God's law as their inheritance. Furthermore, it illustrates the active role of the **assembly** in maintaining justice and accountability within the community itself.
TRV