The term "Assembly of the LORD" refers to the gathering or congregation of the people of Israel, particularly in a religious or worship context. This concept is rooted deeply in the Old Testament and is significant in understanding the communal and covenantal aspects of Israel's relationship with God.

Biblical References:

1. Deuteronomy 23:1-3 : The Assembly of the LORD is mentioned in the context of who may or may not enter it. "No man with crushed or severed genitals may enter the assembly of the LORD. No one of illegitimate birth may enter the assembly of the LORD, nor may any of his descendants, even to the tenth generation. No Ammonite or Moabite or any of their descendants may enter the assembly of the LORD, even to the tenth generation." This passage highlights the holiness and purity required for participation in the assembly, reflecting the covenantal standards set by God for His people.

2. Numbers 16:3 : The assembly is also seen in the context of leadership and rebellion. "They came together against Moses and Aaron and told them, 'You have gone too far! All the congregation is holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the LORD?'" This incident with Korah, Dathan, and Abiram underscores the importance of recognizing God's chosen leaders within the assembly.

3. Nehemiah 13:1 : The assembly is involved in the reading and application of the Law. "On that day the Book of Moses was read aloud in the hearing of the people, and there was found written in it that no Ammonite or Moabite should ever enter the assembly of God." This reflects the ongoing commitment to uphold the standards of the assembly as prescribed in the Law.

Theological Significance:

The Assembly of the LORD is a central concept in understanding the identity and function of Israel as God's chosen people. It is not merely a gathering for social or political purposes but is primarily a religious assembly where the covenant relationship with God is expressed and maintained. The assembly serves as a microcosm of the nation, representing the collective commitment to the covenant and the communal worship of Yahweh.

Holiness and Purity:

The restrictions on who may enter the assembly, as seen in Deuteronomy 23, emphasize the holiness required of those who come before the LORD. This reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness, where God's people are called to be set apart and pure, both individually and collectively. The assembly is a place where God's presence is acknowledged, and His standards are upheld.

Leadership and Order:

The assembly also functions under divinely appointed leadership, as seen in the challenge to Moses and Aaron in Numbers 16. This highlights the importance of recognizing and submitting to God's ordained structure within the community. The assembly is not a place of chaos or rebellion but one of order and reverence for God's chosen leaders.

Covenantal Community:

The assembly is a tangible expression of the covenant community. It is where the Law is read, taught, and applied, as demonstrated in Nehemiah 13. The assembly serves as a reminder of the people's identity as God's covenant partners and their responsibility to live according to His statutes.

In summary, the Assembly of the LORD is a vital concept in the Old Testament, reflecting the communal, covenantal, and holy nature of Israel's relationship with God. It underscores the importance of purity, leadership, and adherence to God's Law within the community of faith.