### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qannôwʼ**, represented by `{{H7072}}`, is defined as **jealous** or angry. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, where it is used exclusively to describe an attribute of God. This term conveys a divine intolerance for rivalry, particularly in the context of worship and covenant faithfulness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H7072}}` describes God's righteous response to sin and idolatry. Joshua warns the people that they cannot serve the LORD because He is a holy God and a **jealous** God, who will not forgive their transgressions or sins [[Joshua 24:19]]. Similarly, the prophet Nahum declares that God is **jealous** and the LORD "revengeth" and is "furious," taking vengeance on His adversaries [[Nahum 1:2]]. In both instances, God's jealousy is directly linked to His holiness and justice.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the concept of God's jealousy and His reaction to sin:
* `{{H6918}}` **qâdôwsh** (holy): This term, meaning sacred, is used in parallel with **jealous** to describe God's nature, emphasizing that His jealousy stems from His absolute moral purity [[Joshua 24:19]].
* `{{H5358}}` **nâqam** (revengeth): Defined as to avenge or punish, this word is directly associated with God's jealousy, showing that His jealousy results in action against His enemies [[Nahum 1:2]].
* `{{H6588}}` **peshaʻ** (transgression): This word for revolt or rebellion is what provokes God's jealousy. God's refusal to forgive **transgression** is a direct consequence of His nature as a **jealous** God [[Joshua 24:19]].
* `{{H2534}}` **chêmâh** (fury): Meaning heat or anger, this term is used alongside jealousy to describe the intensity of God's wrath against His adversaries [[Nahum 1:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7072}}` is significant in understanding God's character and covenant relationship with His people.
* **Divine Holiness:** The term is explicitly tied to God's holiness. He is described as a **holy** God `{{H6918}}` and a **jealous** God `{{H410}}`, indicating that His jealousy is a function of His sacred and set-apart nature, which cannot tolerate sin [[Joshua 24:19]].
* **Righteous Judgment:** God's jealousy is not a petty emotion but an expression of His justice. It fuels His vengeance `{{H5358}}` and fury `{{H2534}}` against His adversaries `{{H6862}}` and enemies `{{H341}}` [[Nahum 1:2]].
* **Warning Against Idolatry:** The use of **qannôwʼ** serves as a stark warning. Because God is **jealous**, He will not forgive the people's transgressions `{{H6588}}` and sins `{{H2403}}`, highlighting the severe consequences of divided loyalty and rebellion [[Joshua 24:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7072}}`, while infrequent, provides a crucial insight into the nature of God. As **qannôwʼ**, He is a **jealous** God whose holiness demands exclusive devotion. The term underscores that God's jealousy is a righteous attribute, intrinsically linked to His justice and intolerance of sin. It stands as a powerful declaration of God's holy character and a solemn warning against transgression.
TRV