### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâmats**, represented by `{{H7061}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to grasp with the hand; take an handful**. It is a highly specific term, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage is confined to the description of a precise ritual action performed with an offering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7061}}` is used exclusively within the context of Levitical law to describe a priest's action. In each instance, a priest is commanded to perform this action as part of preparing an offering. He is to **take** a portion from the offering, specifically a handful of flour, oil, and frankincense from a grain offering ([[Leviticus 2:2]], [[Leviticus 5:12]]). This act of taking a handful is also commanded for the offering related to the trial of jealousy [[Numbers 5:26]]. The action isolates the specific part of the offering that will be burned on the altar.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and significance of this action:
* `{{H7062}}` **qômets** (handful): This noun is the direct object of the verb `{{H7061}}`. The priest is to take a **handful** (`qômets`) from the larger offering, as seen in [[Leviticus 2:2]] and [[Leviticus 5:12]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): The action of `{{H7061}}` is performed by the **priest**. He is the designated official who carries out this ritual step, acting as the officiant for the offering ([[Leviticus 2:2]], [[Leviticus 5:12]], [[Numbers 5:26]]).
* `{{H234}}` **'azkârâh** (memorial): The handful taken is explicitly designated as the **memorial** portion of the offering. This is the part that serves as a remembrance-offering to be burned before the LORD ([[Leviticus 2:2]], [[Numbers 5:26]]).
* `{{H6999}}` **qâṭar** (burn): Immediately after the priest takes the handful, he is to **burn** it upon the altar. This verb describes the fate of the portion separated by the action of `{{H7061}}` ([[Leviticus 2:2]], [[Leviticus 5:12]], [[Numbers 5:26]]).
### Theological Significance
The ritual significance of `{{H7061}}` lies in its precision and purpose within the sacrificial system.
* **Priestly Function:** The act of grasping the handful is reserved for the **priest** (`kôhên`), emphasizing his unique role as the mediator who prepares and presents the offering to God ([[Leviticus 2:2]], [[Leviticus 5:12]]).
* **The Memorial Portion:** The use of `{{H7061}}` is the critical step that separates the **memorial** (`'azkârâh`) from the rest of the grain offering. This specific handful represents the whole and is what is offered up to God by fire [[Leviticus 5:12]].
* **A Prescribed Action:** The word describes a specific, measured grasp rather than an arbitrary taking. This highlights the detailed and orderly nature of the instructions for worship and sacrifice given to Israel.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7061}}` **qâmats** is not a general term for taking, but a specific, technical term for a ritual action. It describes the priest's act of grasping a representative handful of an offering, which is then designated as the memorial portion to be burned on the altar. Its limited use underscores its importance as a key procedural step in the Levitical laws for offerings, linking the physical gesture of the priest to the spiritual purpose of the sacrifice.
TRV