### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâqâm**, represented by `{{H5359}}`, is a term for **revenge** or **vengeance**. It appears 17 times across 17 unique verses. The word is derived from the root `{{H5358}}` and can also refer to a quarrel. It is used to describe a powerful response to injustice, often carried out by God himself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H5359}}` is predominantly associated with divine action. It is frequently declared as God's exclusive right, as in [[Deuteronomy 32:35]], which states, "To me belongeth **vengeance**, and recompence". This theme is also tied to a future "day of the LORD'S **vengeance**" [[Isaiah 34:8]], a time of both judgment and salvation. While primarily a divine act, the term is also used in a human context, such as when Samson prays to be "avenged" of the Philistines [[Judges 16:28]], or when God brings a sword to "avenge the **quarrel**" of His covenant [[Leviticus 26:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the concept of vengeance:
* `{{H5358}}` **nâqam** (to grudge, i.e. avenge or punish): This is the primitive root from which `{{H5359}}` is derived. It signifies the act of taking vengeance, as seen when God promises to **avenge** the blood of his servants [[Deuteronomy 32:43]].
* `{{H1576}}` **gᵉmûwl** (recompense, reward): This term is often paired with vengeance to emphasize that God’s actions are a just requital. God is described as coming with "vengeance... even God with a **recompence**" [[Isaiah 35:4]].
* `{{H2534}}` **chêmâh** (fury, wrath): This word describes the intense anger that can accompany vengeance. God declares he will execute "vengeance in anger and **fury**" [[Micah 5:15]].
* `{{H6862}}` **tsar** (adversary, enemy): This identifies the object of divine vengeance. God vows to "render vengeance to his **adversaries**" [[Deuteronomy 32:43]].
* `{{H7068}}` **qinʼâh** (jealousy, zeal): This emotion is often presented as a motivator for divine justice. God is depicted as being "clad with **zeal** as a cloke" and wearing "the garments of **vengeance**" [[Isaiah 59:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5359}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of God's character and plan.
* **Divine Prerogative:** Scripture establishes that vengeance is ultimately God's domain. He declares, "I will take **vengeance**" [[Isaiah 47:3]], reserving this right as an expression of his sovereignty and perfect justice.
* **Instrument of Justice:** Divine vengeance is not arbitrary but is a tool for rectifying wrongs and delivering judgment. In [[Ezekiel 24:8]], it is executed to "cause fury to come up to take **vengeance**" because of shed blood.
* **Component of Salvation:** God’s vengeance is directly linked to the salvation of His people. The "day of **vengeance**" is also the "year of my redeemed" [[Isaiah 63:4]], demonstrating that God's judgment against His enemies is a redemptive act for His faithful.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5359}}` is far more than a simple term for revenge. It is a foundational concept in biblical justice, representing God's righteous response to sin and oppression. It serves as an assurance that injustice will be answered and that God's plan includes both judgment on adversaries and the ultimate salvation and comfort of His people, as promised in "the day of **vengeance** of our God" [[Isaiah 61:2]].
TRV