### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **rᵉgaz**, represented by `{{H7265}}`, defines the act to **provoke unto wrath** or to quiver with violent emotion. It is a specific and potent term that appears **2 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition, corresponding to the Hebrew רָגַז, points to a strong emotional response, particularly anger or fear.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical context, `{{H7265}}` is used twice to explain the reason for the Babylonian exile. The verse states that "our fathers had **provoked** the God of heaven **unto wrath**" [[Ezra 5:12]]. This dual usage is significant, as the word describes both the sinful action of the people (provoking) and the resulting divine emotion (wrath). This act of provocation is presented as the direct cause for God giving them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar, which led to the destruction of the house of God and the captivity of the people.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse clarify the context and consequence of this provocation:
* `{{H3052}}` **yᵉhab** (to give... deliver, give, lay... yield): This verb describes God's direct response to being provoked; he **gave** the people into the hand of the king of Babylon [[Ezra 5:12]].
* `{{H3861}}` **lâhên** (but, except, save, therefore, wherefore): This conjunction sets up the cause-and-effect structure of the sentence, beginning with "**But** after that our fathers had provoked..." [[Ezra 5:12]].
* `{{H426}}` **ʼĕlâhh** (God, god): This word identifies the object of the provocation, "the **God** of heaven" [[Ezra 5:12]], highlighting the gravity of the fathers' actions.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7265}}` is centered on the concepts of divine justice and human accountability.
* **Cause and Consequence:** The use of the word in [[Ezra 5:12]] establishes a clear and direct link between sin and judgment. The provocation of God is not without consequence; it results in being given over to enemies.
* **Human Responsibility:** The passage assigns the blame for the national disaster of the exile to the actions of "our fathers," who actively "provoked" God.
* **Divine Wrath:** The term provides insight into the nature of God's wrath as a response to sin. It is a "violent emotion" that results in decisive action, in this case, the destruction of the house of God and the carrying away of the people.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7265}}` is more than a simple term for anger. It is a powerful Aramaic word that encapsulates both the act of provoking God and the resulting state of divine wrath. Its singular, yet dual, appearance in [[Ezra 5:12]] serves as a stark theological explanation for a pivotal event in Israel's history, illustrating that provoking God leads to severe and direct consequences.
TRV