### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zaʻam**, represented by `{{H2195}}`, denotes a potent form of divine displeasure. Its definition, stemming from a root meaning "to froth at the mouth," points to a figurative fury, **indignation**, or **rage**, particularly in the context of God's response to sin. It appears **22 times** in **22 unique verses**, highlighting its specific and powerful application in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H2195}}` consistently portrays a severe and consequential anger. It is an expression of God's righteous judgment that is so powerful the nations cannot "abide his **indignation**" [[Jeremiah 10:10]]. This **indignation** is not a random outburst but an appointed instrument, described as the "weapons of his **indignation**" [[Jeremiah 50:25]] and the "staff" in the hand of the Assyrian, whom God uses for His purposes [[Isaiah 10:5]]. It is also presented as a temporary state that has a defined end, as God's people are told to hide "until the **indignation** be overpast" [[Isaiah 26:20]]. While primarily used for divine wrath, it can also describe human emotion, such as the " **rage** of their tongue" leading to the downfall of princes [[Hosea 7:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other Hebrew words for anger and wrath appear alongside or in similar contexts to **zaʻam**, each with a distinct nuance:
* `{{H2534}}` **chêmâh**: This word relates to heat, and is used figuratively for **fury** or anger. In Nahum, the LORD is described as "furious" and taking vengeance on His adversaries [[Nahum 1:2]].
* `{{H2740}}` **chârôwn**: Signifying a burning anger, this term often appears as "fierce" wrath. It is used to describe the "fierce anger of the LORD" that people are warned to avoid [[Zephaniah 2:2]].
* `{{H5678}}` **ʻebrâh**: Defined as an outburst of passion, this is used for the overwhelming **wrath** of the "day of the LORD" when neither silver nor gold can deliver [[Zephaniah 1:18]].
* `{{H639}}` **ʼaph**: Derived from the word for nose or nostril, it signifies **anger** from the imagery of rapid breathing in passion. It describes God's anger that "endureth but a moment" [[Psalms 30:5]].
* `{{H7110}}` **qetseph**: This word can mean **wrath** or indignation. It is used alongside `{{H2195}}` to show the immense power of God, at whose **wrath** the earth trembles [[Jeremiah 10:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2195}}` centers on the deliberate and judicial nature of God's anger.
* **A Tool of Divine Judgment:** God's **indignation** is an active, purposeful force. He pours it out upon the nations [[Zephaniah 3:8]] and uses it as a weapon to accomplish his work in the land of the Chaldeans [[Jeremiah 50:25]].
* **An Overwhelming and Unbearable Force:** The sheer power of this **indignation** is emphasized repeatedly. The prophet Nahum asks, "Who can stand before his **indignation**?" [[Nahum 1:6]], and Jeremiah notes that the nations cannot endure it [[Jeremiah 10:10]].
* **A Finite and Appointed Action:** Divine **indignation** is not endless. It has a set purpose and duration, after which it will "cease" [[Isaiah 10:25]] or be "accomplished" according to a predetermined plan [[Daniel 11:36]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2195}}` **zaʻam** is not merely a word for anger, but a specific term for the intense, righteous **indignation** of God directed against sin and rebellion. It functions as a controlled, purposeful, and overwhelming force of divine judgment within the biblical narrative. Its usage shows that God's wrath is neither arbitrary nor infinite, but a measured and temporary response within His sovereign plan for justice and redemption.
TRV