### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâqam**, represented by `{{H5358}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **grudge, avenge, or punish**. It appears 35 times across 31 unique verses in the Bible. The term encompasses the concepts of taking vengeance, acting as an avenger, and carrying out punishment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5358}}` is primarily associated with God's divine justice. The LORD is described as the one who will **avenge** the blood of His servants [[Deuteronomy 32:43]] and **take vengeance** on His adversaries [[Nahum 1:2]]. The concept is also tied to covenant, with God bringing a sword that "shall **avenge** the quarrel of my covenant" [[Leviticus 26:25]]. While humans are explicitly forbidden from taking personal vengeance [[Leviticus 19:18]], the term is used to describe national retribution against enemies, as when the people of Israel **avenged** themselves [[Joshua 10:13]] or Samson sought to be **avenged** of the Philistines [[Judges 16:28]]. In a legal context, it signifies a just punishment, such as when it is declared that anyone who slays Cain, **vengeance shall be taken** on him [[Genesis 4:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the scope and object of vengeance:
* `{{H5359}}` **nâqâm** (revenge): This noun form often appears alongside the verb to define the nature of the action. God's sword is brought to "avenge the **quarrel** of my covenant" [[Leviticus 26:25]].
* `{{H5360}}` **nᵉqâmâh** (avengement): A feminine noun form also signifying vengeance. It is used to describe the action as belonging to God, as in "it is the **vengeance** of the LORD: take vengeance upon her" [[Jeremiah 50:15]].
* `{{H341}}` **'ôyêb** (enemy): This term identifies the recipient of divine or national vengeance. God is said to **take vengeance** on His adversaries and reserve wrath for His **enemies** [[Nahum 1:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5358}}` is significant, establishing a clear distinction between divine justice and human retribution.
* **Divine Prerogative:** The act of vengeance is overwhelmingly presented as God's domain. He is the one who **revengeth** [[Nahum 1:2]], and individuals like David explicitly leave vengeance to the LORD [[1 Samuel 24:12]].
* **Covenantal Justice:** Vengeance is often tied to God's covenant and His people. It is the means by which God **avenges** the blood of His servants [[Deuteronomy 32:43]] and upholds His covenant [[Leviticus 26:25]].
* **Prohibition of Personal Grudges:** Scripture uses this term to draw a line against personal retaliation, commanding "Thou shalt not **avenge**, nor bear any grudge" [[Leviticus 19:18]], positioning it as an act reserved for God or for sanctioned, legal punishment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5358}}` **nâqam** defines the act of avenging or punishing. While it can describe human actions of retribution, particularly in a national or legal capacity ([[Joshua 10:13]], [[Exodus 21:20]]), its primary role is theological. Scripture reserves the ultimate right of vengeance for God, portraying it as a tool of divine justice to right wrongs, defend His people, and uphold His covenant [[Nahum 1:2]]. The Bible thus separates prohibited personal revenge [[Leviticus 19:18]] from the righteous and authoritative vengeance of the LORD.
TRV