### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qannâʼ**, represented by `{{H7067}}`, describes the attribute of being **jealous**. It appears 6 times across 5 unique verses and is used exclusively as a descriptor for God. This term defines God's righteous and exclusive claim to the worship and devotion of His people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7067}}` is used to establish the basis for monotheistic worship. It appears in the context of forbidding idolatry, where the LORD `{{H3068}}` declares Himself to be a **jealous** God who will not tolerate His people bowing down `{{H7812}}` to or serving `{{H5647}}` other gods ([[Exodus 20:5]], [[Deuteronomy 5:9]]). This concept is so central to His identity that in one passage, God reveals His very name `{{H8034}}` is **Jealous** [[Exodus 34:14]]. The term is also associated with warnings of divine judgment, linking God's jealousy to a consuming `{{H398}}` fire `{{H784}}` and an anger `{{H639}}` that can destroy `{{H8045}}` people from the face `{{H6440}}` of the earth `{{H127}}` ([[Deuteronomy 4:24]], [[Deuteronomy 6:15]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the divine jealousy expressed by `{{H7067}}`:
* `{{H7812}}` **shâchâh** (bow down, worship): This word describes the act of homage forbidden to be given to any other than God. The prohibition against this action is the direct context for God declaring Himself **jealous** [[Exodus 20:5]].
* `{{H312}}` **ʼachêr** (other, strange): This term is used to specify the "other" gods whose worship provokes the LORD's jealousy. God's name is revealed as Jealous in the command to worship no **other** god [[Exodus 34:14]].
* `{{H2734}}` **chârâh** (to blaze up, of anger, zeal, jealousy): This verb is used to describe the kindling of God's anger as a direct result of His jealousy, warning of destruction if the people are unfaithful [[Deuteronomy 6:15]].
* `{{H5771}}` **ʻâvôn** (iniquity, sin): God's jealousy is linked to His response to sin. He is described as a jealous God who visits the **iniquity** of the fathers upon the children `{{H1121}}` [[Exodus 20:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7067}}` is profound, defining the nature of God's relationship with His people.
* **Covenant Exclusivity:** God's jealousy is not depicted as a human failing but as a righteous attribute of a covenant-making God. It underscores His demand for absolute loyalty and the prohibition of serving any **other** `{{H312}}` gods [[Exodus 34:14]].
* **Divine Holiness:** The term is connected to God's holiness and power, portraying Him as a consuming **fire** `{{H784}}` [[Deuteronomy 4:24]]. This jealousy protects the sanctity of His name `{{H8034}}` and the honor due only to Him.
* **Generational Consequences:** The declaration of God as **jealous** is tied to the warning that the iniquity `{{H5771}}` of those who hate `{{H8130}}` Him will be visited upon the third `{{H8029}}` and fourth `{{H7256}}` generations, highlighting the seriousness and long-term impact of idolatry ([[Exodus 20:5]], [[Deuteronomy 5:9]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7067}}` is far more than a simple emotion; it is a fundamental aspect of God's revealed character in Scripture. The word **qannâʼ** establishes God's exclusive right to worship and defines the unwavering commitment He expects from His people within their covenant relationship. It serves as both a declaration of His unique identity and a solemn warning against the severe consequences of spiritual unfaithfulness.
TRV