כָּוָה (ka.vah)
ka.vah
to burn
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb kawah means to burn or scorch, often with the specific nuance of branding or marking something with heat. It is a rare word in Scripture, appearing only twice, yet it carries a vivid sense of physical alteration through fire.
In Proverbs 26:21, the text uses this imagery to describe how a contentious person can inflame strife, likening their words to the coals that burn wood. The sources note that kawah implies a lasting effect, similar to a brand left on an animal or object, suggesting that the impact of such conflict is not fleeting but leaves a mark.
This usage highlights the destructive power of anger and division. By connecting human conflict to the physical reality of burning, the text emphasizes that words can cause damage as tangible and enduring as fire on wood. The verb serves as a stark warning about the consequences of unchecked passion.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kawah describes a burning that leaves a mark, like a brand on wood or skin. In Proverbs 6:28, it asks if feet can walk on coals without being scorched. The answer is clear: fire changes what it touches. This image reminds us that our actions and words have real consequences. Just as heat alters material, conflict can leave lasting marks on relationships.
Isaiah 43:2 offers a different perspective on this same power. Here, God promises protection from the scorching flame. The verse assures us that while fire is dangerous, divine presence can shield us from its harm. This contrast shows that while we cannot control every situation, we can trust in a protector who stands between us and destruction.
Understanding this word helps us see the weight of our daily interactions. It invites us to handle conflicts with care, knowing that words can burn. At the same time, it points to a hope where we are kept safe from the fires of trouble. This balance encourages both caution in our actions and confidence in God's care.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you will be burned1×
- will they be scorched1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- תִכָּוֶֽינָה\׃1×
- תִכָּוֶ֔ה1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 6:28
Or can one walk on hot coals, and his feet not be scorched?
This verse uses the word to illustrate the inevitable physical consequence of walking on hot coals, serving as a metaphor for the danger of sin.
-
Isaiah 43:2
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned, and flame will not scorch you.
Here the term appears in a promise of protection, assuring that God's presence prevents the scorching flame from harming the believer.