### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qᵉrîy**, represented by `{{H7147}}`, describes a **hostile encounter** or acting in a **contrary** manner. It appears a total of **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within a single chapter of Leviticus. This concentration highlights its specific role in defining the nature of willful opposition to God and the resulting consequences.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7147}}` is used to illustrate a principle of reciprocal action between God and His people. All seven occurrences are found in Leviticus 26, which outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. The people are warned against walking **contrary** to God ([[Leviticus 26:21]], 23, 27, 40). If they persist in this opposition, God declares that He will in turn walk **contrary** to them, acting with fury and bringing judgment ([[Leviticus 26:24]], 28, 41). The term frames disobedience not as a passive failure but as an active, hostile opposition that provokes a direct and opposing reaction from God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of acting in a contrary manner:
* `{{H1980}}` **hâlak** (to walk): This root word for "to walk" is repeatedly paired with `{{H7147}}` to create the phrase "walk contrary" ([[Leviticus 26:23]], 27). It establishes that this opposition is a way of life or a chosen path, not a singular event.
* `{{H2403}}` **chaṭṭâʼâh** (sin): The act of walking contrary is directly linked to sin. The resulting punishments, such as being chastised seven times, are explicitly "for your **sins**" ([[Leviticus 26:24]], 28), identifying sin as the root cause of the hostile encounter.
* `{{H2534}}` **chêmâh** (fury): This word describes the intensity of God's response. When Israel walks contrary to Him, God promises to walk contrary to them "in **fury**" [[Leviticus 26:28]], signifying a righteous and powerful anger against their rebellion.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7147}}` is significant for understanding God's covenantal relationship with Israel.
* **Principle of Reciprocity:** The term establishes a clear "eye-for-an-eye" dynamic within the covenant. If the people walk contrary to God, He promises to mirror their action by walking contrary to them, moving them from a state of blessing to one of judgment [[Leviticus 26:23-24]].
* **Structured Divine Judgment:** God's contrary walk is not chaotic but is presented as a measured and escalating disciplinary action. It involves punishment "seven times{H7651}" for their sins [[Leviticus 26:24]] and "seven times{H7651} more plagues{H4347}" [[Leviticus 26:21]], demonstrating that opposition to God has severe and compounding consequences.
* **A Path to Humility:** The purpose of God's hostile encounter is ultimately restorative. The cycle is broken when the people confess{H3034} their iniquity, and their "uncircumcised{H6189} hearts{H3824} be humbled{H3665}" [[Leviticus 26:40-41]]. This shows that God's opposition is intended to lead His people to repentance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7147}}` is a crucial term for understanding the dynamics of rebellion and discipline within the Mosaic covenant. It moves beyond a general idea of disobedience to describe an active, hostile opposition. The concept illustrates a profound principle where God responds to human contrariness with His own, not as arbitrary punishment, but as a measured action designed to bring about confession and humility, thereby restoring the broken relationship.
TRV