The term "collecteth" is an archaic form of the verb "collect," which means to gather together or assemble. In the context of the Bible, it often refers to the gathering of people, resources, or spiritual truths. The concept of collecting is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, symbolizing the gathering of God's people, the accumulation of wisdom, and the preparation for future needs.

Old Testament Usage

In the Old Testament, the act of collecting is frequently associated with the gathering of resources and people. For example, in the context of agriculture, the collection of crops is a common theme. Proverbs 6:8 speaks of the ant, which "prepares its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest." This verse highlights the wisdom of preparing and collecting resources in anticipation of future needs.

The gathering of people is also a significant theme. In Exodus, Moses is instructed to collect the Israelites and lead them out of Egypt. This act of gathering is not merely physical but also spiritual, as it signifies the unification of God's chosen people under His covenant.

New Testament Usage

In the New Testament, the concept of collecting takes on a more spiritual dimension. Jesus often speaks of gathering His followers and the importance of unity among believers. In Matthew 23:37 , Jesus laments over Jerusalem, saying, "How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling." Here, the act of gathering is a metaphor for Jesus' desire to protect and nurture His people.

The early church also practiced the collection of resources to support one another. Acts 4:34-35 describes how the believers "brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need." This communal collection underscores the importance of generosity and support within the Christian community.

Spiritual Implications

The act of collecting in the Bible often carries spiritual implications. It is not merely about the physical act of gathering but also about the spiritual readiness and unity of God's people. The parable of the wheat and the tares in Matthew 13:30 illustrates this, where the harvest represents the end of the age when God will collect His people: "Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters, ‘First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat into my barn.’"

Wisdom and Knowledge

Collecting is also associated with the accumulation of wisdom and knowledge. Proverbs 10:14 states, "The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of the fool invites ruin." This verse emphasizes the importance of gathering wisdom as a means of spiritual and moral preparation.

In summary, the concept of "collecteth" in the Bible encompasses the gathering of resources, people, and spiritual truths. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preparation, unity, and the pursuit of wisdom in the life of a believer.Collecteth (1 Occurrence)

Habakkuk 2:5
Yes also, because he transgresseth by wine, he is a proud man, neither keepeth at home, who enlargeth his desire, as hell, and is as death, and cannot be satisfied, but gathereth to him all nations, and collecteth to him all people:
(WBS)

Collecteth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Collecteth (1 Occurrence). Habakkuk 2:5 Yes also,
because he transgresseth by wine, he is a proud man, neither ...
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Collecting (4 Occurrences)

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Collected (55 Occurrences)

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