אֲסֻפָּה (a.sup.pah)
a.sup.pah
collection
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The noun aṣuppah denotes a gathering or collection, appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible within Ecclesiastes 12:11. In this specific context, it describes the words of wise men as being "given from one Shepherd." The term emphasizes the act of assembling distinct pieces into a unified whole, suggesting that wisdom is not random but carefully gathered and organized.
While the word itself simply means collection, its placement in Ecclesiastes highlights the value of synthesizing diverse insights. The text contrasts scattered thoughts with this deliberate assembly, implying that true understanding comes from bringing together various perspectives under a single divine source. This usage underscores the idea that wisdom is structured and intentional rather than chaotic.
Translators typically render aṣuppah as "collection" or "gathered," reflecting its root sense of bringing things together. The rarity of the word in Scripture makes this single instance particularly significant, as it provides a rare glimpse into how ancient Hebrew literature viewed the compilation of knowledge. It serves as a reminder that wisdom is often found in the careful gathering and ordering of truth.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word aṣuppah appears only once in Scripture, found in Ecclesiastes 12:11. It describes the words of wise people as a collection or gathering. This rare term suggests that true wisdom is not scattered or random. Instead, it is carefully assembled from many different insights and perspectives.
When we study difficult passages or seek guidance for our lives, we often feel overwhelmed by conflicting opinions. This verse offers comfort by showing that diverse voices can come together under one Shepherd. It reminds us that God’s truth holds together even when human understanding feels fragmented.
You do not need to have all the answers right now. Trust that the same Shepherd who guided the ancient writers is still present. As you read and reflect, look for how different parts of Scripture connect. This gathering of truth brings peace and clarity to your faith journey.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- collections1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֲסֻפּ֑וֹת1×
Key Verses
-
Ecclesiastes 12:11
The words of the wise are like goads; and like nails well fastened are words from the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.
This is the only occurrence of the word, describing wise words as a gathered collection given from one Shepherd.