### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qetseph**, represented by `{{H7110}}`, primarily conveys the concepts of **wrath**, **indignation**, and **rage**. It is derived from a root meaning "to crack off," suggesting a splinter or a sudden outburst. Occurring 29 times in 29 unique verses, this term is used to describe both divine and human anger, as well as carrying a distinct literal meaning of foam.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical texts, `{{H7110}}` most frequently describes the righteous wrath of God in response to sin. This is a force with cosmic consequences, as stated in [[Jeremiah 10:10]], where at the LORD's **wrath** "the earth shall tremble." The cause of this divine wrath is often disobedience, such as leaving the house of the LORD to serve idols [[2 Chronicles 24:18]] or rejecting His words through the prophets [[Zechariah 7:12]]. While powerful, God's wrath can be momentary, contrasted with his everlasting kindness [[Isaiah 54:8]]. The term is also applied to human anger, as seen in [[Esther 1:18]], where it describes the predicted reaction of the king's princes, and in a unique instance in [[Hosea 10:7]], it is used to describe a king being cut off like **foam** on water.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the scope of wrath and anger in scripture:
* `{{H7107}}` **qâtsaph** (to be wroth): This is the primitive root from which `qetseph` is derived, meaning to "burst out in rage." It is used to describe God being "sore displeased" with the fathers of Israel [[Zechariah 1:2]].
* `{{H2195}}` **zaʻam** (indignation, rage): This term signifies fury, especially God's displeasure with sin. It appears alongside `qetseph` to describe the overwhelming nature of God's judgment ([[Jeremiah 10:10]], [[Psalms 102:10]]).
* `{{H2534}}` **chêmâh** (fury, hot displeasure): Meaning "heat" or "anger," this word is often used in combination with `qetseph` to describe the intensity of God's response to sin, as seen in lists of "anger," "fury," and "great wrath" ([[Jeremiah 32:37]], [[Deuteronomy 29:28]]).
* `{{H639}}` **ʼaph** (anger, wrath): Properly meaning "nostril" and used figuratively for ire, this word is also paired with `qetseph` to denote the various facets of divine judgment [[Jeremiah 21:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7110}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of divine justice and human responsibility.
* **A Consequence of Sin:** The appearance of `qetseph` is consistently linked to transgression. Achan's sin brought **wrath** upon the entire congregation of Israel [[Joshua 22:20]], and Joab's unfinished numbering of the people resulted in **wrath** against Israel [[1 Chronicles 27:24]].
* **A Preventable Judgment:** Divine wrath is not inescapable. It can be averted through humility, as when Hezekiah humbled himself and the **wrath** of the LORD did not come upon Jerusalem [[2 Chronicles 32:26]]. It can also be stayed by atonement, as when Aaron was commanded to act quickly because **wrath** had gone out from the LORD [[Numbers 16:46]].
* **A Manifestation of God's Authority:** The term demonstrates the serious nature of the covenant between God and His people. The Levites were instructed to properly care for the tabernacle so that "there be no **wrath** upon the congregation" [[Numbers 1:53]], showing that divine order protects the community from judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7110}}` is a potent term that defines a critical aspect of God's character and his dealings with humanity. It primarily functions as a word for **wrath** that arises as a direct and just consequence of sin and rebellion. From the overwhelming anger that makes the earth tremble to the fleeting foam upon the water, `qetseph` illustrates the gravity of disobedience while also revealing that this judgment can be averted through repentance, humility, and atonement.
TRV