### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yâqad**, represented by `{{H3344}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to burn**. It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible. Its definition includes being in a state of burning, kindling a fire, and is used idiomatically to refer to taking fire **from the hearth** [[Isaiah 30:14]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3344}}` is used to describe both sacred ritual and divine judgment. A significant portion of its uses is found in Leviticus, where it describes the perpetual flame on the altar of the burnt offering. The fire is commanded to be **burning** continuously and must never go out [[Leviticus 6:13]]. Conversely, the word is used by the prophets to depict the enduring fire of God's anger against sin, which shall **burn** forever [[Jeremiah 17:4]] and can reach to the lowest hell [[Deuteronomy 32:22]]. This fire is described as **burning** all the day in God's presence as a reaction to hypocrisy [[Isaiah 65:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the specific meaning of `{{H3344}}` as a state of continuous burning:
* `{{H6919}}` **qâdach** (to inflame; burn, kindle): This word often describes the act of starting a fire. In several instances, a fire is **kindled** `{{H6919}}` by God's anger, which then shall **burn** `{{H3344}}` upon the people [[Jeremiah 15:14]].
* `{{H3350}}` **yᵉqôwd** (a burning): This noun is derived directly from **yâqad**. The connection is seen in [[Isaiah 10:16]], where the Lord will **kindle** `{{H3344}}` a **burning** `{{H3350}}` under the glory of his enemies.
* `{{H4169}}` **môwqᵉdâh** (fuel; burning): This term is used in the law of the burnt offering to refer to the **burning** `{{H4169}}` on the altar, which is maintained by the fire that is **burning** `{{H3344}}` in it [[Leviticus 6:9]].
* `{{H1197}}` **bâʻar** (to kindle, i.e. consume (by fire or by eating)): A distinction is made in [[Leviticus 6:12]], where the priest shall **burn** `{{H1197}}` wood on the altar where the fire shall be **burning** `{{H3344}}`, showing the difference between adding fuel to a fire and the fire's ongoing state.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3344}}` is centered on the concept of a sustained, perpetual fire.
* **Perpetual Atonement and Holiness:** The command for the altar fire to be ever **burning** `{{H3344}}` signifies the constant requirement for atonement and the unending holiness of the space dedicated to God. The fire was never to go out [[Leviticus 6:13]].
* **Unquenchable Divine Judgment:** As a symbol of God's wrath, **yâqad** describes a fire that is not a fleeting event but an enduring consequence. It is a fire kindled in His anger that will **burn** upon those who disobey [[Jeremiah 15:14]] and consume His enemies [[Deuteronomy 32:22]].
* **A Symbol of Consuming Presence:** The state of **burning** represents God's active and powerful presence. Whether it is the holy fire on the altar or the fire of judgment, it illustrates a condition that cannot be ignored and has profound effects on all that it touches.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3344}}` is more than a simple verb for burning; it specifically denotes a continuous, enduring state of fire. It carries a dual significance throughout Scripture. On one hand, it represents the holy, perpetual flame on the altar, a constant symbol of atonement and worship [[Leviticus 6:9]]. On the other, it embodies the unquenchable fire of divine wrath against sin and rebellion [[Jeremiah 17:4]]. Thus, **yâqad** powerfully illustrates a sustained condition, whether for sanctification or for judgment.
TRV