a primitive root; to become sapless through drought; used only as denominative from קַשׁ; to forage for straw, stubble or wood; figuratively, to assemble; gather (selves) (together).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâshash**, represented by `{{H7197}}`, is a primitive root. Its core meaning relates to becoming sapless through drought, but it is used as a denominative to mean foraging for straw, stubble, or wood. Figuratively, it means to assemble or gather. It appears **8 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7197}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Its most frequent use is literal, describing the gathering of basic materials. The Israelites were forced to **gather** stubble for making bricks in Egypt ([[Exodus 5:7]], [[Exodus 5:12]]). The word is also used to describe individuals **gathering** sticks for a fire, as seen with the widow of Zarephath ([[1 Kings 17:10]], [[1 Kings 17:12]]) and the man who violated the Sabbath [[Numbers 15:32]]. Figuratively, the word is used as a command for a nation to **gather** itself together, as seen in the prophetic call in [[Zephaniah 2:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{H7197}}`, providing a fuller context for the action of gathering:
* `{{H4672}}` **mâtsâʼ** (to find or acquire): This word is used when the man **gathering** sticks on the Sabbath was found [[Numbers 15:32]] and again when those who **found** him brought him to the congregation [[Numbers 15:33]].
* `{{H6327}}` **pûwts** (to disperse or scatter): This term is used in direct connection with gathering. In Egypt, the people were **scattered abroad** specifically to **gather** stubble, showing the difficulty of their task [[Exodus 5:12]].
* `{{H7126}}` **qârab** (to approach or bring near): After the man was found **gathering** sticks, he was **brought** before Moses and Aaron for judgment [[Numbers 15:33]], linking the act of gathering to the consequence of being brought to justice.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7197}}` is demonstrated through its context. While a simple verb, its application carries significant meaning.
* **A Call to Assembly:** The word is used figuratively in a command for a "nation not desired" to **gather** itself together [[Zephaniah 2:1]]. This implies a summons for collective reflection or repentance in the face of impending judgment.
* **An Act of Disobedience:** The act of **gathering** sticks becomes a capital crime when performed on the Sabbath [[Numbers 15:32]]. This illustrates how even a mundane task of survival can represent a serious violation of divine law, highlighting the importance of obedience.
* **A Depiction of Desperation:** For the widow of Zarephath, **gathering** two sticks is an act of finality and desperation before she and her son expect to die from famine [[1 Kings 17:12]]. Here, gathering underscores a state of extreme poverty and hopelessness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7197}}` is a word whose significance is defined by its context. Literally, it denotes the simple, often arduous, task of foraging for materials like straw and wood ([[Exodus 5:12]], [[1 Kings 17:10]]). Figuratively, it elevates to a command for a nation to assemble [[Zephaniah 2:1]]. Whether describing an act of forced labor, a violation of sacred time, or a desperate attempt at survival, **qâshash** demonstrates how a basic human action can carry profound biblical and theological importance.
TRV