a primitive root; to crack off, i.e. (figuratively) burst out in rage; (be) anger(-ry), displease, fret self, (provoke to) wrath (come), be wroth.
Transliteration:qâtsaph
Pronunciation:kaw-tsaf'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H7107}}` (qâtsaph) is a primitive verb carrying the core meaning of "to crack off" or "to snap." This literal sense provides a vivid foundation for its primary figurative usage: "to burst out in rage" or "to be intensely angry." The imagery suggests a sudden, forceful, and often violent eruption of emotion, akin to something breaking or snapping under pressure. Its semantic range encompasses various degrees and manifestations of displeasure, from being "displeased" or "fretting oneself" to expressing profound "wrath" or "being wroth." The emphasis is on the active manifestation of anger, whether internal agitation that leads to outward expression or an immediate, explosive display of fury. It denotes a state of being provoked to wrath, or wrath coming upon someone, highlighting both the cause and effect of this powerful emotion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{H7107}}` appears approximately 30 times in the Hebrew Bible, most frequently describing the anger of God.
When applied to God, `{{H7107}}` consistently portrays His righteous indignation against sin, particularly the idolatry and disobedience of Israel. For example, in [[Numbers 16:22]], after the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, Moses and Aaron plead with God not to be `{{H7107}}` with the entire community. This illustrates God's potential to burst forth in judgment due to widespread sin. Similarly, in [[Deuteronomy 1:37]], Moses recounts how the Lord was `{{H7107}}`, or angry, with him on account of the Israelites, leading to Moses's exclusion from the Promised Land. This highlights the severity of divine displeasure and its far-reaching consequences, even for His chosen leaders.
In the historical books, `{{H7107}}` frequently describes God's wrath as a response to Israel's apostasy, leading to judgment, defeat, or exile. [[2 Kings 17:18]] states, "So the Lord was very `{{H7107}}` with Israel and removed them from His presence." This verse encapsulates the theological consequence of persistent rebellion. The prophets also utilize `{{H7107}}` to convey God's impending judgment, as seen in [[Isaiah 57:17]], where God explains His anger was due to Israel's greed, yet He promises to heal and lead them, indicating His anger is not capricious but purposeful, aimed at restoration.
Less frequently, `{{H7107}}` describes human anger. In [[2 Kings 3:27]], the king of Moab sacrifices his firstborn son, and "great `{{H7107}}` came upon Israel," leading them to withdraw. Here, the word describes a profound, perhaps supernatural, indignation or distress that causes the opposing army to retreat. In [[Ecclesiastes 5:6]], the Preacher warns against making a vow that causes one to sin, asking, "Why should God be `{{H7107}}` at your voice?" This applies the concept of divine wrath to personal accountability.
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{H7107}}` belongs to a rich semantic field of Hebrew words expressing anger and wrath, each with nuanced distinctions.
* `{{H639}}` (aph): Literally "nose" or "nostril," often used idiomatically for anger, particularly the flaring of nostrils in fury. It can denote a sustained state of anger.
* `{{H2734}}` (charah): "To burn" or "to be kindled," emphasizing the heat and intensity of anger.
* `{{H2194}}` (za'am): "Indignation" or "rage," often used for divine wrath that is a settled, righteous indignation.
* `{{H2534}}` (chemah): "Heat," "fury," or "poison," conveying intense, burning anger, often destructive.
While these terms often overlap in translation, `{{H7107}}` uniquely emphasizes the *sudden, bursting forth* quality of anger. It's not merely a state of being angry (like `{{H639}}` or `{{H2734}}`) but an active, often explosive, manifestation of displeasure. It suggests a breaking point, a snapping of patience or endurance, leading to an immediate reaction. This distinguishes it from terms that might describe a simmering or prolonged anger. The concept of "fretting oneself" also highlights an internal agitation that can lead to such an outburst.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7107}}` is profound, primarily revealing aspects of God's character and His relationship with humanity.
Firstly, it underscores God's holiness and His absolute opposition to sin. God's `{{H7107}}` is never capricious or arbitrary; it is always a just and righteous response to unrighteousness, particularly covenant breaking, idolatry, and injustice. It signifies His commitment to His own character and His moral order. The "bursting forth" of His wrath demonstrates the immediacy and seriousness with which He views offenses against His holiness.
Secondly, `{{H7107}}` highlights the dire consequences of human disobedience. The frequent use of this word in relation to God's anger against Israel serves as a stark warning and a demonstration of divine discipline. His wrath is often a means to bring about repentance and restoration, though it involves severe judgment (e.g., exile, famine, defeat). It is an expression of His justice, ensuring that sin does not go unpunished.
Thirdly, while God's `{{H7107}}` is a terrifying reality for the unrepentant, it is often presented within the larger context of His mercy and long-suffering. Even when God is `{{H7107}}`, His ultimate desire is reconciliation and the restoration of His people. His anger is purposeful, aimed at correction and drawing His people back into right relationship, rather than mere destruction. This tension between divine wrath and divine compassion is a central theme in the Old Testament.
Finally, when applied to humans, `{{H7107}}` often serves as a cautionary tale against uncontrolled or unrighteous anger, though it can also describe righteous indignation. It reminds humanity of the destructive potential of uncontrolled fury and the importance of self-control.
### Summary
`{{H7107}}` (qâtsaph) is a primitive Hebrew root meaning "to crack off" or "to snap," which figuratively describes a sudden, powerful "bursting forth in rage" or "being intensely angry." This word primarily illustrates the righteous wrath of God, particularly His indignation against Israel's sin and covenant infidelity. Its usage emphasizes the immediate and severe nature of divine judgment, serving as a consequence of disobedience and a means of discipline. While God's `{{H7107}}` is a fearsome reality, it is always just and purposeful, rooted in His holiness and aimed at upholding His covenant and ultimately leading to restoration. When applied to humans, it highlights the intense nature of anger, whether righteous or sinful. The term underscores the seriousness with which God views sin and the profound impact of His holy displeasure.
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