a primitive root; to be (causatively, make) zealous, i.e. (in a bad sense) jealous or envious; (be) envy(-ious), be (move to, provoke to) jealous(-y), [idiom] very, (be) zeal(-ous).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qânâʼ**, represented by `{{H7065}}`, is a primitive root that expresses a strong, fervent emotion. It is defined as being zealous, or in a negative sense, jealous or envious. It appears 33 times across 28 unique verses in the Bible. This term carries a dual meaning, capable of describing both a destructive human emotion like envy and a righteous divine passion, often translated as God's jealousy or zeal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H7065}}` illustrates a range of powerful feelings in both human and divine contexts. In human relationships, it frequently signifies a sinful envy. For instance, Rachel **envied** her sister for bearing children [[Genesis 30:1]], and Joseph's brethren **envied** him [[Genesis 37:11]]. The Proverbs repeatedly warn against this, cautioning not to **envy** sinners or oppressors ([[Proverbs 23:17]], [[Proverbs 3:31]]). Conversely, the word is used to describe God's righteous passion. The Israelites provoked God to **jealousy** with their vanities and graven images ([[Deuteronomy 32:21]], [[Psalms 78:58]]). This divine jealousy is also protective, as God is **jealous** for His land and people [[Joel 2:18]] and for His holy name [[Ezekiel 39:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the scope of zeal and envy:
* `{{H183}}` **ʼâvâh**: A primitive root meaning to wish for, covet, or **desire**. This often represents the underlying cause of envy, as one desires what another possesses. Scripture warns not to be **envious** `{{H7065}}` of evil men or **desire** `{{H183}}` to be with them [[Proverbs 24:1]].
* `{{H2734}}` **chârâh**: This primitive root means to glow, grow warm, or blaze up with anger, zeal, or jealousy. It is often used alongside `{{H7065}}` as a parallel emotional response, as in the command to "**fret** `{{H2734}}` not" and not be "**envious** `{{H7065}}`" [[Psalms 37:1]].
* `{{H3707}}` **kâʻaç**: A primitive root meaning to trouble, grieve, or **provoke to anger**. This word describes the action that often incites God's jealousy. In response to Israel's idolatry, God declares they "have moved me to **jealousy** `{{H7065}}`... they have **provoked me to anger** `{{H3707}}` with their vanities" [[Deuteronomy 32:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7065}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of sin and divine character.
* **The Sin of Envy:** The word frequently describes a destructive human emotion rooted in covetousness. From Rachel's envy of her sister [[Genesis 30:1]] to the Philistines' envy of Isaac [[Genesis 26:14]], it is portrayed as a source of strife and is explicitly warned against [[Proverbs 24:19]].
* **Righteous Human Zeal:** In a positive sense, `{{H7065}}` can describe a passionate devotion to God's honor. Phinehas was commended because he was "**zealous** for his God," turning away wrath from Israel [[Numbers 25:13]]. Similarly, Elijah declared he had been "**very jealous**" for the LORD [[1 Kings 19:10]].
* **Divine Covenantal Jealousy:** God's jealousy is a central theme. It is not a petty human emotion but a righteous attribute reflecting His exclusive covenant relationship with His people. Israel's worship of other gods provokes Him to **jealousy** [[1 Kings 14:22]]. His jealousy is also fiercely protective, expressed for Zion and Jerusalem [[Zechariah 1:14]] and tied to His mercy and restoration [[Ezekiel 39:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7065}}` **qânâʼ** is a powerful word with a distinct duality. It encapsulates the sinful human tendency to **envy** others, a destructive force seen in familial and social conflicts. At the same time, it can represent righteous **zeal**, a fervent devotion to God demonstrated by figures like Phinehas and Elijah. Most importantly, it is a key descriptor of God's character, revealing His divine **jealousy** not as a flaw, but as a holy and passionate commitment to His covenant, His name, and His people.
TRV