### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew adjective זָעֵף (zâʻêph, `{{H2198}}`) is derived from the verbal root זָעַף (za'aph, `{{H2197}}`), meaning "to be angry, vexed, or displeased." As an adjective, זָעֵף describes a state of being characterized by such emotions. Its semantic range encompasses a spectrum from dejection, sadness, or a troubled countenance to a more intense, sullen, or even rebellious anger. Unlike words denoting explosive wrath, זָעֵף often implies a lingering displeasure, vexation, or a visibly troubled state, whether internal or expressed through one's demeanor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term זָעֵף is relatively rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing in three distinct contexts, each shedding light on its nuanced meaning:
* **[[Genesis 40:6]]**: Joseph observes the chief butler and chief baker in prison and notes that "behold, they were זָעֵף." Here, the word describes their appearance, indicating they were "troubled," "dejected," or "sad" due to their imprisonment and ominous dreams. It points to an inward state of distress manifested outwardly.
* **[[Proverbs 19:3]]**: This verse states, "The foolishness of a man perverts his way: and his heart זָעֵף against the LORD." This is arguably the most significant theological usage. It portrays a person whose own folly leads to ruin, yet instead of repentance, their heart expresses a deep-seated anger, vexation, or resentment directly *against* God. This is a profound spiritual indictment, highlighting the human tendency to blame the divine for self-inflicted woes.
* **[[Daniel 1:10]]**: The chief of the eunuchs expresses concern to Daniel, fearing that if Daniel and his companions do not eat the king's rich food, their faces might appear זָעֵף (rendered as "worse liking" or "poorer condition" in some translations) compared to other youths. This context suggests a physical manifestation of displeasure or ill-health, potentially appearing sullen, unhealthy, or displeased, which would incur the king's wrath.
Across these occurrences, זָעֵף consistently denotes a negative emotional or physical state stemming from displeasure, whether from external circumstances (Genesis, Daniel) or internal rebellion (Proverbs).
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of זָעֵף can be further understood by contrasting it with other Hebrew terms for anger or displeasure:
* **Root Verb:** זָעַף (za'aph, `{{H2197}}`): The direct verbal root from which זָעֵף is derived, meaning "to be angry, vexed."
* **אַף (aph, `{{H639}}`):** Literally "nose" or "nostril," often used metonymically for anger, particularly a burning or flaring anger.
* **חֵמָה (chemah, `{{H2534}}`):** Denotes intense heat, rage, or wrath, often destructive and passionate, frequently used for divine wrath.
* **קֶצֶף (qetsep, `{{H7110}}`):** Refers to indignation, wrath, or fury, often associated with divine judgment.
* **כַּעַס (ka'as, `{{H3708}}`):** Signifies vexation, anger, or grief, often implying frustration or agitation.
While זָעֵף shares the semantic domain of anger with these terms, its specific nuance tends towards a more sullen, dejected, or deeply resentful displeasure, particularly as a settled state rather than a sudden outburst.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of זָעֵף is most acutely observed in [[Proverbs 19:3]]. This verse exposes a profound spiritual pathology: the human tendency to direct anger and resentment towards God when faced with the consequences of one's own foolish choices. Instead of humility and repentance, the זָעֵף heart is hardened in rebellious indignation against the divine order and the Lord's sovereignty. This highlights a fundamental sin of pride and a refusal to accept personal responsibility, projecting blame onto the Creator.
In [[Genesis 40:6]] and [[Daniel 1:10]], זָעֵף points to the natural human experience of distress and the outward manifestations of internal states. While not inherently sinful in these contexts, they underscore the vulnerability of human emotions and appearance to circumstances. However, when this זָעֵף state is directed God-ward, as in Proverbs, it becomes a grave spiritual offense, demonstrating a heart that is not only displeased but actively hostile towards divine wisdom and justice.
### Summary
The Hebrew word זָעֵף (zâʻêph, `{{H2198}}`) describes a state of being angry, displeased, troubled, or vexed. Its usage in the biblical text reveals a nuanced meaning, ranging from a visible dejection due to difficult circumstances, as seen in [[Genesis 40:6]] and [[Daniel 1:10]], to a profound and rebellious anger directed at the Lord. The latter, particularly in [[Proverbs 19:3]], carries significant theological weight, exposing the human tendency to blame God for the repercussions of personal folly. Thus, זָעֵף not only captures aspects of human emotional distress but powerfully illuminates the spiritual danger of a heart that harbors resentment and indignation against its Creator.
TRV