Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terminology, the term "concourse" refers to a gathering or assembly of people, often in a public or open space. The concept of a concourse is seen in various contexts throughout the Bible, where it can denote both literal and metaphorical gatherings.Old Testament References The idea of a concourse is present in the Old Testament, where gatherings of people are often depicted in the context of significant events or divine encounters. For example, in the book of Nehemiah, the people of Israel gather as a concourse to hear the reading of the Law: "All the people gathered together as one man in the square before the Water Gate" (Nehemiah 8:1). This assembly was a pivotal moment for the Israelites as they renewed their covenant with God. In the prophetic literature, the term can also imply a gathering for judgment or divine intervention. The prophets often spoke of nations assembling as a concourse to witness God's mighty acts or to face His judgment. Isaiah, for instance, speaks of a future gathering of nations: "All the nations are gathered together, and the peoples are assembled" (Isaiah 43:9). New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of a concourse is evident in the gatherings of people around Jesus during His ministry. Crowds often assembled to hear His teachings, witness His miracles, and seek healing. The Gospels frequently describe these gatherings, highlighting the widespread interest and impact of Jesus' ministry. For example, in the Gospel of Mark, it is noted, "A large crowd gathered around Him, and He began to teach them" (Mark 4:1). The early church also experienced concourses as believers gathered for worship, teaching, and fellowship. The book of Acts records the rapid growth of the church and the frequent assemblies of believers: "And all the believers were together and had everything in common" (Acts 2:44). These gatherings were essential for the communal life and spiritual growth of the early Christians. Symbolic and Theological Implications Theologically, a concourse can symbolize unity and collective purpose among God's people. It reflects the biblical theme of community and the importance of assembling together for worship, instruction, and mutual edification. The writer of Hebrews emphasizes this by urging believers not to forsake assembling together: "And let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another" (Hebrews 10:25). In eschatological terms, the ultimate concourse is envisioned in the gathering of all believers in the presence of God. The book of Revelation describes a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne of God, worshiping Him (Revelation 7:9). This future assembly represents the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan and the unity of His people in eternity. Conclusion The concept of concourse in the Bible underscores the significance of gathering, both in historical and spiritual contexts. Whether in the assembly of Israel, the crowds around Jesus, or the early church, these gatherings highlight the communal and covenantal aspects of faith. They serve as a reminder of the importance of unity, worship, and the anticipation of the ultimate gathering in God's eternal kingdom. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A moving, flowing, or running together; confluence.2. (n.) An assembly; a gathering formed by a voluntary or spontaneous moving and meeting in one place. 3. (n.) The place or point of meeting or junction of two bodies. 4. (n.) An open space where several roads or paths meet; esp. an open space in a park where several roads meet. 5. (n.) Concurrence; cooperation. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CONCOURSEkon'-kors (hamah, "to hum," "to make a noise"; sustrophe, "a turning" or "twisting together"): Hamah, usually translated by some word signifying "sound" is rendered "concourse" in Proverbs 1:21 (perhaps from the noise made by people thronging and talking together; compare 1 Kings 1:41, "uproar"), "She (wisdom) crieth in the chief place of concourse," the Revised Version, margin, Hebrew "at the head of the noisy (streets)"; sustrophe is translated "concourse" (Acts 19:40), a riotous crowd. Compare Judith 10:18. Greek 4963. sustrophe -- a twisting together, hence a concourse or ... ... a twisting together, hence a concourse or conspiracy. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: sustrophe Phonetic Spelling: (soos-trof-ay') Short ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4963.htm - 6k 4890. sundrome -- a running together, ie a concourse (esp. of a ... 1999. episustasis -- conspiracy Strong's Hebrew 1993. hamah -- to murmur, growl, roar, be boisterous... clamorous, concourse, cry aloud, be disquieted, loud, mourn, be moved, make a noise,. A primitive root (compare huwm); to make a loud sound like Engl. ... /hebrew/1993.htm - 6k 5712. edah -- congregation Library Away in Paris, a Vast Concourse of People were Assembled Round an ... The Concourse of Atoms could not Make the World. The System of the Sethians; their Triad of Infinite Principles ... The Restoration of the Jews. The General Observations are These. On his Birthday, ii. : Delivered on the Anniversary of his ... Matt. x. 7, 8, 9 Answer to Mr. W's Sixth Objection. The Scheme of Necessity Makes God the Author of Sin. Of the Calling of the Apostles as they were Fishing. Thesaurus Concourse (4 Occurrences)... an open space in a park where several roads meet. 5. (n.) Concurrence; cooperation. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. CONCOURSE. kon ... /c/concourse.htm - 8k Concordance Uttereth (30 Occurrences) Openings (27 Occurrences) Occasion (53 Occurrences) Whereby (46 Occurrences) Wailingplace Wailing-place Touching (121 Occurrences) Reference (23 Occurrences) Resources Concourse: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Concourse (4 Occurrences)Acts 19:40 Acts 21:30 Acts 23:12 Proverbs 1:21 Subtopics Related Terms |