Definition and Etymology:
The term "mustereth" is an archaic English word derived from the verb "muster," which means to assemble or gather troops for inspection, preparation, or battle. In a biblical context, it often refers to the gathering or assembling of people, particularly for military purposes. The word is used in older translations of the Bible, such as the King James Version, but is less common in modern translations.

Biblical Context and Usage:
In the Bible, the concept of mustering is frequently associated with the preparation for battle or the gathering of people for a significant event. The act of mustering is often seen as a divine or kingly command, emphasizing the authority and purpose behind the assembly.

1. Military Context:
The idea of mustering is prominently featured in the context of warfare. In the Old Testament, Israelite kings and leaders would muster their troops in preparation for battle. This act was not only a practical necessity but also a demonstration of leadership and divine guidance. For example, in 1 Samuel 15:4 , "So Saul summoned the troops and numbered them at Telaim—200,000 foot soldiers and 10,000 men of Judah."

2. Prophetic and Eschatological Context:
Mustering is also used in prophetic literature to describe the gathering of nations or armies for a divinely ordained purpose. In Isaiah 13:4 , the prophet speaks of a tumultuous noise on the mountains, "like that of a great multitude! The sound of an uproar among the kingdoms, like nations gathered together. The LORD of Hosts is mustering an army for war." This passage highlights the sovereignty of God in orchestrating events on a global scale, often as a precursor to judgment or deliverance.

3. Spiritual and Symbolic Context:
Beyond the literal gathering of troops, mustering can symbolize the spiritual readiness and unity of God's people. The act of assembling is a call to be prepared for spiritual battles, to stand firm in faith, and to be united in purpose. This theme resonates with the New Testament call for believers to put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) and to be vigilant in their spiritual walk.

Theological Significance:
The concept of mustering in the Bible underscores the themes of divine authority, preparation, and unity. It reflects the belief that God is actively involved in the affairs of nations and individuals, calling them to readiness and action according to His purposes. The act of mustering serves as a reminder of the need for obedience, vigilance, and trust in God's sovereign plan.

Historical and Cultural Insights:
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, mustering was a common practice for organizing military campaigns. It involved not only the physical gathering of troops but also the logistical and strategic planning necessary for warfare. This cultural backdrop provides a deeper understanding of the biblical narratives where mustering is mentioned, highlighting the importance of leadership, strategy, and divine favor in achieving victory.

Related Concepts and Cross-References:
· Assembly: The gathering of people for worship, decision-making, or communal activities (e.g., Exodus 19:17, Acts 2:1).
· Preparation: The act of being ready for a task or event, often with spiritual implications (e.g., Matthew 25:1-13).
· Divine Sovereignty: The belief in God's ultimate authority and control over all events (e.g., Daniel 4:35, Romans 8:28).

Conclusion:
While the term "mustereth" may not appear in modern translations, its underlying concept remains relevant. The biblical call to muster reflects a timeless truth about the need for readiness, unity, and reliance on God's guidance in both physical and spiritual endeavors.

Isaiah's
... together! The LORD of HOSTS Mustereth the HOST for the battle; They come
from a far country, From the uttermost part of heaven: ...
/.../various/select masterpieces of biblical literature/x isaiahs.htm

China Evangelized.
... China Evangelized. 8.6.8.6 James Montgomery. China Evangelized. "The Lord of hosts
mustereth the host of the battle.""Isaiah 42:4. PART I. PART II. PART III. ...
/.../montgomery/sacred poems and hymns/hymn cclxv china evangelized.htm

The Foreign Missions and their Influence.
... isle, the "First Love of Moravian Missions." Again the text for the day was prophetic:
"The Lord of Hosts," ran the gladdening watchword, "mustereth the host ...
/.../hutton/history of the moravian church/chapter vi the foreign missions.htm

Rahab's Faith
... is to believe a thing alone, when no one else thinks as you think; to be the solitary
champion of a righteous cause when the enemy mustereth his thousands to ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 3 1857/rahabs faith.htm

The Holy War,
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm

Mustereth (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Mustereth (2 Occurrences). 2 Kings 25:19 and out
of the city he hath taken a certain eunuch who is appointed ...
/m/mustereth.htm - 7k

Mustered (28 Occurrences)

/m/mustered.htm - 15k

Tumultuous (10 Occurrences)
... a multitude in the mountains, like as of a great people; a tumultuous noise of the
kingdoms of nations gathered together: the LORD of hosts mustereth the host ...
/t/tumultuous.htm - 9k

Mustering (1 Occurrence)

/m/mustering.htm - 6k

Tumult (56 Occurrences)
... a multitude in the mountains, like as of a great people; a tumultuous noise of the
kingdoms of nations gathered together: the LORD of hosts mustereth the host ...
/t/tumult.htm - 23k

Eunuch (20 Occurrences)
... over the men of war, and five men of those seeing the king's face who have been
found in the city, and the head scribe of the host, who mustereth the people of ...
/e/eunuch.htm - 22k

Gathering (71 Occurrences)
... Hark, the uproar of the kingdoms of the nations gathered together! The
LORD of hosts mustereth the host of the battle. (See RSV). ...
/g/gathering.htm - 28k

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