קְצַף (qe.tsaph)
qe.tsaph
wrath
A:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun qetsaph appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Ezra 7:23. In this specific context, it refers to the wrath or anger of God. The verse records King Artaxerxes’ decree allowing the restoration of Jerusalem, noting that anyone who fails to obey the law of God and the king will face severe punishment, including death, destruction, confiscation of property, and imprisonment.
While the word is rare in Scripture, its meaning aligns with the broader biblical theme of divine judgment. It describes a serious, authoritative displeasure rather than a fleeting emotional outburst. The term underscores the gravity of disobeying God’s law, serving as a stark warning within the historical narrative of Ezra.
Translators typically render qetsaph as "wrath" or "anger," reflecting its use in contexts involving divine authority and consequences. Its solitary occurrence highlights the specific tension between imperial power and religious obedience in the post-exilic period, reminding readers of the serious stakes involved in adhering to God’s commands.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word qetsaph appears just once in the Old Testament, found in Ezra 7:23. King Artaxerxes uses it when warning that disobedience to God’s law would bring wrath upon his kingdom. This rare term describes a serious, authoritative displeasure rather than a fleeting emotional outburst. It underscores the gravity of obeying divine commands within a historical narrative where imperial power meets religious duty.
For your faith, this word reminds us that God’s standards are not arbitrary rules but reflections of His holy character. When Scripture speaks of wrath, it points to the real consequences of turning away from what is right. Yet this warning also highlights the seriousness with which God views obedience. It invites you to consider how deeply He cares about living in alignment with His will.
Even in its single occurrence, qetsaph reveals the tension between human authority and divine law. It challenges readers to reflect on their own relationship with God’s commands. Rather than fearing punishment, this word can lead to a deeper appreciation for the grace that offers forgiveness. May you find peace in knowing that God’s justice is always balanced by His mercy.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- anger1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- קְצַ֔ף1×
Key Verses
-
Ezra 7:23
Whatever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be done exactly for the house of the God of heaven; for why should there be wrath against the realm of the king and his sons?
This verse uses qetsaph to warn that disobedience to God's law would bring wrath against the king and his realm, highlighting the serious stakes of obedience.