(Aramaic) corresponding to קָצַף; to become enraged; be furious.
Transliteration:qᵉtsaph
Pronunciation:kets-af'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic lemma `{{H7108}}` (qᵉtsaph) conveys the core meaning of "to become enraged" or "to be furious." As specified in its definition, it directly corresponds to the Hebrew verb `{{H7107}}` (qāṣap̄), which carries a similar semantic range of strong anger, indignation, or wrath. This Aramaic term denotes an intense, often sudden, outburst of displeasure. It describes a state of profound agitation and anger, which can manifest in destructive actions or punitive measures. When applied to a divine context, it signifies righteous indignation and judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H7108}}` are found exclusively within the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Daniel and the Book of Ezra.
* **Daniel 2:12**: "For this cause the king was enraged and very furious, and commanded to destroy all the wise men of Babylon." Here, qᵉtsaph describes the intense, destructive anger of King Nebuchadnezzar upon discovering that his wise men could not interpret his dream. It highlights the arbitrary and absolute nature of a pagan monarch's wrath, leading to a decree of death.
* **Daniel 3:13**: "Then Nebuchadnezzar in rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego." The term again characterizes Nebuchadnezzar's anger, this time in response to the three Hebrews' refusal to worship his golden image. The combination of "rage and fury" emphasizes the overwhelming intensity of his emotional state.
* **Daniel 3:19**: "Then Nebuchadnezzar was full of fury, and the expression of his face was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego." This verse further illustrates the king's extreme anger, so potent that it physically alters his countenance. His fury directly leads to the command to heat the fiery furnace seven times hotter, demonstrating the dangerous consequences of such unrestrained human wrath.
* **Ezra 7:23**: "Whatever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be diligently done for the house of the God of heaven, for why should there be wrath against the realm of the king and his sons?" In this context, qᵉtsaph refers to divine wrath. King Artaxerxes issues a decree for the diligent provision of the temple, recognizing that failure to do so would incur the "wrath" of God upon his kingdom. This usage underscores the theological understanding of God's just anger as a consequence of neglecting His commands or desecrating His holy things.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the Hebrew `{{H7107}}` (qāṣap̄), from which the Aramaic `{{H7108}}` is derived or to which it corresponds. Both terms share the core meaning of "to be angry" or "to be indignant." Other Hebrew words conveying aspects of anger or wrath include `{{H639}}` (aph, often referring to a flaring of the nose/anger), `{{H2534}}` (ḥēmāh, heat, often indicating burning wrath or fury), and `{{H5678}}` (ʿeḇrāh, an outburst or overflowing of wrath).
Conceptually, qᵉtsaph is intrinsically linked to themes of divine judgment, human disobedience, and the consequences of rebellion against authority, whether human or divine. It also touches upon the nature of power, particularly royal power, and the potential for both righteous and unrighteous anger.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7108}}` is twofold, reflecting its usage for both human and divine wrath.
Firstly, when describing human anger (as seen in Daniel), qᵉtsaph highlights the destructive, often irrational, and tyrannical nature of unbridled human fury, especially when wielded by powerful rulers. Nebuchadnezzar's rage leads to decrees of death and persecution, demonstrating how human anger, untempered by divine wisdom or justice, can result in great suffering and injustice. Yet, even in these instances, the narrative subtly points to God's ultimate sovereignty, as His servants are miraculously preserved despite the king's extreme wrath.
Secondly, and perhaps more profoundly, its use in [[Ezra 7:23]] speaks to the reality of divine wrath. Here, qᵉtsaph is not capricious but a righteous response to potential disobedience regarding God's sacred commands and His temple. It serves as a powerful deterrent, emphasizing that God's justice demands adherence to His will and that failure to comply brings severe, divinely ordained consequences. This concept reinforces the holiness of God and His active involvement in the affairs of humanity, ensuring that His covenant and commands are upheld.
### Summary
`{{H7108}}` (qᵉtsaph) is an Aramaic term signifying intense anger or fury, directly corresponding to the Hebrew `{{H7107}}` (qāṣap̄). Its biblical occurrences are limited to the Aramaic portions of Daniel and Ezra. In Daniel, it vividly portrays the destructive and often arbitrary wrath of King Nebuchadnezzar, showcasing the perilous nature of unchecked human power. In Ezra, however, it denotes the righteous and just wrath of God, serving as a consequence for disobedience to His divine commands, particularly concerning the temple. Thus, qᵉtsaph powerfully illustrates both the dangerous potential of human fury and the purposeful, holy indignation of God against sin and neglect of His will, ultimately underscoring divine sovereignty and the necessity of obedience.
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