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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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