In biblical literature, the term "a great throng" often refers to a large assembly or multitude of people gathered for a specific purpose, whether in worship, celebration, or other significant events. This concept is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, illustrating moments of communal gathering and divine interaction.

Old Testament References

1. Worship and Celebration: In the Old Testament, a great throng is frequently associated with worship and celebration. For instance, during the dedication of Solomon's Temple, a vast assembly of Israelites gathered to witness the event and offer sacrifices. This is depicted in 2 Chronicles 5:6 : "And King Solomon and the whole assembly of Israel who had gathered about him were before the ark, sacrificing so many sheep and cattle that they could not be recorded or counted."

2. Festivals and Feasts: The Israelites often gathered in large numbers for religious festivals and feasts, such as Passover and the Feast of Tabernacles. These occasions were marked by a great throng of people coming together to observe the commandments of the Lord and to celebrate His provision and deliverance.

3. Prophetic Visions: The prophets also spoke of great throngs in their visions. For example, Isaiah 60:4 envisions a future gathering: "Lift up your eyes and look around: They all gather and come to you; your sons will come from afar, and your daughters will be carried on the arm."

New Testament References

1. Ministry of Jesus: In the New Testament, Jesus often attracted great throngs during His ministry. Crowds followed Him to hear His teachings, witness His miracles, and seek healing. Mark 3:7-8 states, "So Jesus withdrew with His disciples to the sea, and a large crowd followed from Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, beyond the Jordan, and the region around Tyre and Sidon."

2. Triumphal Entry: A significant event involving a great throng is the Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. As He rode into the city on a donkey, a large crowd gathered, spreading their cloaks and palm branches on the road, shouting, "Hosanna!" This is recorded in Matthew 21:8-9 : "A massive crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of Him and those that followed were shouting: 'Hosanna to the Son of David!'"

3. Pentecost: After the resurrection of Jesus, the Day of Pentecost saw a great throng of people from various nations gathered in Jerusalem. Acts 2:6 describes the scene: "And when this sound rang out, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking his own language."

Symbolic and Eschatological Significance

1. Heavenly Vision: The Book of Revelation presents a vision of a great throng in the heavenly realm. Revelation 7:9 describes a multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes and holding palm branches in their hands.

2. Final Gathering: The eschatological theme of a great throng is also evident in the prophetic anticipation of the final gathering of God's people. This is seen as a time of ultimate redemption and celebration, where believers from all corners of the earth will unite in worship and adoration of God.

Throughout the Bible, the imagery of a great throng serves to highlight moments of divine encounter, communal worship, and the fulfillment of God's promises. It underscores the collective nature of faith and the anticipation of a future gathering in the presence of the Almighty.