Kehelah is a term that appears in the context of biblical names and places, though it is not directly mentioned in the Berean Standard Bible as a standalone entry. The name "Kehelah" is derived from the Hebrew root "קהל" (qahal), which means "assembly" or "congregation." This root is significant in the biblical narrative, as it often refers to the gathering of the people of Israel for worship, instruction, or decision-making.

Biblical Context and Usage

1. Assembly of Israel: The concept of an assembly, or "qahal," is central to the identity of Israel as a covenant community. In the Old Testament, the assembly is often called together for significant events, such as the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:17) and the renewal of the covenant (Deuteronomy 31:12). The assembly serves as a means for the people to hear God's word and respond in obedience.

2. Worship and Sacrifice: The assembly is also a context for worship and sacrifice. In Leviticus 8:3, Moses is instructed to gather the entire assembly at the entrance to the tent of meeting for the consecration of Aaron and his sons. This highlights the communal aspect of worship in Israel's religious life.

3. Decision-Making and Leadership: The assembly plays a role in decision-making and leadership within the community. In Numbers 16:3, Korah and his followers challenge Moses and Aaron's leadership, claiming that the entire assembly is holy. This incident underscores the tension between individual ambition and communal authority.

4. Prophetic and Eschatological Significance: The prophets often speak of a future assembly of God's people, where the nations will gather to worship the Lord. Isaiah 2:2-3 envisions a time when all nations will stream to the mountain of the Lord, seeking His ways and instruction. This eschatological hope is echoed in the New Testament, where the assembly of believers, the Church, is seen as the fulfillment of God's promise to gather His people from all nations (Ephesians 2:19-22).

Theological Implications

The concept of Kehelah, or assembly, carries significant theological implications. It emphasizes the communal nature of faith and the importance of gathering together for worship, instruction, and mutual edification. The assembly is a place where God's presence is experienced, His word is proclaimed, and His purposes are discerned.

In the New Testament, the Greek equivalent of "qahal" is "ekklesia," often translated as "church." This term reflects the continuity between the Old Testament assembly of Israel and the New Testament community of believers. The Church is called to be a holy assembly, set apart for God's purposes and united in Christ.

Conclusion

While the specific term "Kehelah" may not appear directly in the Berean Standard Bible, its underlying concept is woven throughout the biblical narrative. The assembly of God's people is a foundational theme that highlights the communal and covenantal aspects of the faith journey. As believers gather in worship and fellowship, they participate in the ongoing account of God's redemptive work in the world.Kehelah (2 Occurrences)

Numbers 33:22
And they journeyed from Rissah, and encamped in Kehelathah.
(See JPS)

Numbers 33:23
And they journeyed from Kehelathah, and encamped in mount Shepher.
(See JPS)

Kehelah (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Kehelah (2 Occurrences). Numbers 33:22 And they
journeyed from Rissah, and encamped in Kehelathah. (See JPS). ...
/k/kehelah.htm - 6k

Kehela'thah (2 Occurrences)
... Numbers 33:22 And they journeyed from Rissah, and pitched in Kehelah. (See RSV).
Numbers 33:23 And they journeyed from Kehelah, and pitched in mount Shepher. ...
/k/kehela'thah.htm - 6k

Kehelathah (2 Occurrences)

/k/kehelathah.htm - 7k

Keeps (154 Occurrences)

/k/keeps.htm - 33k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus