Joel 2:16
Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breasts: let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet.
Joel 2:16 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breasts: let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet." can be interpreted as a call to gather all members of the community together for a sacred and important event or ceremony. The verse emphasizes the importance of unity and inclusivity by instructing for all members, regardless of age or status, to come together. This gathering is a symbolic representation of the coming together of the community to witness and participate in a significant occasion. The act of sanctifying the congregation highlights the need for spiritual preparation and purity before coming together in unity. The instruction for the bridegroom and the bride to leave their chambers and closets signifies a joining together in marriage, symbolizing the union of two individuals and their families. Overall, the verse speaks to the significance of communal unity, spiritual preparation, and the coming together of individuals in a sacred union.
Theological Overview
This verse, found in the book of Joel 2:16, calls for a gathering of the people of God for a sacred purpose. The use of the word "sanctify" in this context indicates a setting apart or consecration of the congregation for a holy gathering. The mention of the elders, children, and even nursing infants emphasizes the inclusivity of this assembly, highlighting the importance of community worship and participation in religious rites. Additionally, the image of the bridegroom coming out of his chamber and the bride from her closet symbolizes a joyous union or reuniting of God with His people, drawing upon the metaphor of marriage to convey a deep spiritual connection. The theological interpretation of this verse suggests a call to unity, holiness, and celebration within the community of believers, as they come together in reverence and anticipation of a divine encounter.
Joel 2:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
gather the people, sanctify the assembly, assemble the old men, gather the children, and those that suck the breasts; let the bridegroom go forth from his chamber, and the bride out of her closet.
World English Bible
Gather the people. Sanctify the assembly. Assemble the elders. Gather the children, and those who nurse from breasts. Let the bridegroom go out of his room, and the bride out of her room.
Douay-Rheims
Gather together the people, sanctify the church, assemble the ancients, gather together the little ones, and them that suck at the breasts: let the bridegroom go forth from his bed, and the bride out of her bridal chamber.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Gather the people: sanctifie the congregation, gather the elders: assemble the children, and those that sucke the breastes: let the bridegrome go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her bride chamber.