### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **qᵉtsaph**, represented by `{{H7109}}`, denotes **wrath** or rage. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, highlighting its specific and potent meaning within its singular context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7109}}` is in [[Ezra 7:23]], within a royal decree concerning the house of God. The verse poses a rhetorical question, asking why there should be **wrath** against the king's realm. This context frames divine **wrath** as a direct consequence of neglecting what is commanded by the God of heaven, specifically in relation to His house.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H2941}}` **ṭaʻam** (commandment): This word refers to a judicial sentence or **commandment**. The potential for **wrath** `{{H7109}}` arises from the failure to obey the **commandment** of God [[Ezra 7:23]].
* `{{H4437}}` **malkûw** (realm): This word for dominion or **realm** identifies what is at risk. Disobeying God's commands threatens the stability and security of the king's **realm** [[Ezra 7:23]].
* `{{H1123}}` **bên** (son): This term for a **son**, is used to show the generational consequence, as the wrath would be against the king and his **sons** [[Ezra 7:23]].
* `{{H149}}` **ʼadrazdâʼ** (diligently): The verse specifies that God's commands for His house are to be **diligently** done, implying that carelessness or neglect is sufficient to provoke **wrath** [[Ezra 7:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7109}}` is demonstrated in its single appearance:
* **Divine Judgment on Earthly Kingdoms:** The use of `{{H7109}}` underscores the biblical theme that God's **wrath** is a real and present danger to even the most powerful human rulers and their realms if they disregard His commands [[Ezra 7:23]].
* **The Fear of God as a Motivator:** The king's decree is motivated by a desire to avoid this divine **wrath**, illustrating that a healthy fear of God's judgment can lead to actions that honor Him.
* **Consequences of Neglect:** The verse explicitly links the potential for **wrath** to the failure to diligently perform what God has commanded for His house, establishing a clear cause-and-effect relationship between neglect of worship and divine displeasure.
### Summary
In summary, **qᵉtsaph** `{{H7109}}` provides a focused look at the concept of divine **wrath** directed at civil authority. Its singular use in scripture is significant, articulating the understanding that neglecting the commands of the God of heaven carries tangible consequences for a king's **realm** and his lineage. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty over all earthly kingdoms.
TRV