The Hebrew word ʻêqeb, represented by H6118, denotes a result, compensation, or reward. It appears 15 times across 15 unique verses. Derived from a root word meaning "heel" or the last of anything, it functions as an adverb meaning "on account of," "because," "if," or "for," and can also refer to the "end."
In biblical usage, H6118 primarily functions as a word of consequence, linking an action to its outcome. It is used to explain the basis for God's blessings, as when the nations of the earth are blessed because Abraham obeyed God's H6963 voice Genesis 22:18. This principle applies to individuals like Caleb, who was promised entry into the land because he followed the Lord fully Numbers 14:24. Conversely, it is also used for negative consequences, such as when David is told the sword will not depart from his house because he despised the Lord 2 Samuel 12:10, or when Israel is warned they will perish because they would not be obedient Deuteronomy 8:20.
Several related words illuminate the cause-and-effect principle central to H6118:
- H8085 shâmaʻ (to hear intelligently): The act of obedience, or to H8085 hearken to God's judgments, is frequently the cause that triggers the consequence described by ʻêqeb Deuteronomy 7:12.
- H8104 shâmar (to guard; generally, to protect, attend to): Keeping God's commandments is a prerequisite for the "reward." Abraham was blessed because he H8104 kept God's charge, commandments, statutes, and laws Genesis 26:5.
- H1285 bᵉrîyth (covenant): The results signified by ʻêqeb often operate within the framework of God's H1285 covenant, which promises to keep H2617 mercy with those who hearken to His judgments Deuteronomy 7:12.
The theological weight of H6118 is centered on the direct relationship between human action and divine response.
- Divine Causality: The term establishes a clear moral framework where obedience and disobedience have guaranteed results. God's promises and judgments are not arbitrary but are a direct reward or consequence for specific behavior (Genesis 26:5, 2 Samuel 12:6).
- The Reward of Righteousness: Keeping God's precepts results in a "great reward" Psalms 19:11. This reward encompasses riches, honor, and life, and is the outcome of H6038 humility and the H3374 fear of the H3068 LORD Proverbs 22:4.
- Faithful Perseverance: The word's meaning as "end" emphasizes the need for steadfastness. The psalmist expresses a desire to keep God's statutes unto the end Psalms 119:33, demonstrating that the ultimate reward is tied to enduring faithfulness Psalms 119:112.
In summary, H6118 is a crucial term for understanding the biblical concept of moral and spiritual consequence. It moves beyond a simple definition of "reward" or "because" to embody the principle that one's actions—whether of obedience, humility, or contempt—lead to a definite and direct result from God. It illustrates a universe governed by divine justice, where keeping God's ways leads to blessing and the "end" of the faithful is secure.
TRV