עֵ֫קֶב (e.qev)
e.qev
consequence
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 12 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun e.qev literally denotes the heel, but in Scripture it almost always functions metaphorically to mean "consequence" or "reward." It appears twelve times across the Old Testament, with notable occurrences in Genesis, Psalms, and II Samuel. Rather than referring to a physical body part in these contexts, the word points to what follows an action—the outcome or gain that results from it.
This usage creates a vivid link between cause and effect. In Genesis 3:14, God tells the serpent he will strike its head while it strikes his heel, using the physical image to describe the ongoing conflict and mutual damage between them. Similarly, in Psalm 18:26, the psalmist notes that with the merciful one shows mercy, implying that kindness yields kindness as a natural consequence.
Translators often render e.qev as "reward" or "gain," emphasizing the tangible result of behavior. It is not merely an abstract idea but something concrete that follows from human choices. This word reminds readers that actions have weight and lasting impact, shaping the future in ways that are both visible and inevitable.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word e.qev connects our daily choices to their lasting outcomes. While it literally means 'heel,' Scripture uses it to describe the consequence or reward that follows an action. This creates a clear link between cause and effect, reminding us that our decisions shape what comes next.
When we choose obedience or kindness, we often see tangible benefits like peace or honor. Conversely, ignoring wisdom can lead to difficult results. This isn't about earning love through performance but understanding the natural weight of our paths. It invites us to walk with intention, knowing that our steps matter.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 12 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- consequence8×
- end2×
- [the] consequence of2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עֵ֣קֶב4×
- עֵ֚קֶב3×
- עֵֽקֶב\׃2×
- עֵ֕קֶב2×
- עֵ֗קֶב1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 22:4
The result of humility and the fear of Yahweh is wealth, honor, and life.
This verse explicitly links the internal attitude of humility and fear of Yahweh to the external consequence of wealth, honor, and life.
-
Genesis 22:18
All the nations of the earth will be blessed by your offspring, because you have obeyed my voice.’”
Here the consequence of Abraham's obedience is described as a blessing extending to all nations through his offspring.
-
II Samuel 12:6
He must restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing and because he had no pity!”
The consequence for David's sin is severe, requiring fourfold restoration because he showed no pity.