### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qômets**, represented by `{{H7062}}`, defines a **grasp** or **handful**. It is derived from the root verb **qâmats** `{{H7061}}` and appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, carrying a specific meaning related to measurement and offerings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The primary use of `{{H7062}}` is within the instructions for offerings in the book of Leviticus. In these passages, the priest is commanded to take a **handful** of the offering's flour, oil, and frankincense to be burned on the altar as a memorial portion ([[Leviticus 2:2]], [[Leviticus 6:15]]). This act is also specified for a sin offering, where the priest shall take his **handful** of it to burn as a memorial [[Leviticus 5:12]]. A different context appears in Genesis, where `{{H7062}}` describes agricultural abundance, stating that during the seven plenteous years, "the earth brought forth by **handfuls**" [[Genesis 41:47]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function and context of **qômets**:
* `{{H7061}}` **qâmats** (to grasp with the hand): As the primitive root, this verb describes the specific action of taking a **qômets**. It is used for the priest's duty to **take an handful** from the offering ([[Leviticus 2:2]], [[Leviticus 5:12]]).
* `{{H234}}` **'azkârâh** (memorial): This term is consistently paired with the **handful** taken from offerings. The **qômets** serves as the **memorial** portion that is burned before the LORD ([[Leviticus 2:2]], [[Leviticus 5:12]], [[Leviticus 6:15]]).
* `{{H4393}}` **mᵉlôʼ** (fulness, hand-full): This word is used alongside **qômets** to specify "his **handful**," emphasizing the fullness of the grasp taken by the priest from the offering materials ([[Leviticus 2:2]], [[Leviticus 5:12]]).
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7062}}` is understood through its distinct applications:
* **A Representative Offering:** The **qômets** functions as a representative portion of a larger offering. The single **handful** of flour and oil is what the priest burns as a **memorial** `{{H234}}`, signifying the whole ([[Leviticus 2:2]], [[Leviticus 6:15]]).
* **A Symbol of Abundance:** In its non-ritualistic use, the term describes overwhelming divine provision. The earth producing "by **handfuls**" communicates a harvest of immense quantity during the plenteous years [[Genesis 41:47]].
* **A Sacred Measure:** The word links a simple physical measure to a holy act. The **handful** is the specific amount designated to be taken from the meat offering and presented to the LORD upon the altar as a sweet savour [[Leviticus 6:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7062}}` **qômets** is a term with a dual application. In a ritual context, it is the specific, sacred **handful** of an offering that serves as a representative memorial before God. In a narrative context, it illustrates a measure of immense abundance and provision. The word connects the physical act of grasping with the theological concepts of remembrance, sacrifice, and blessing.
TRV