קָרָה

coolness

Definition

The Hebrew noun קָרָה (qârâh) primarily means 'coolness' or 'cold.' It refers to the physical sensation of coldness, as in the 'cold of night' when the poor lack covering (Job 24:7). It also describes the literal cold weather produced by God, such as the frost and ice that freeze waters (Job 37:9, Psalm 147:17). In a metaphorical sense, it depicts emotional or spiritual chill, like singing cheerful songs to a person with a 'heavy heart' being as inappropriate as taking away a garment on a cold day (Proverbs 25:20). The word can also imply a state of being numbed or immobilized, as seen in Nahum's prophecy where palace guards are compared to cold-numbed locusts (Nahum 3:17).

Biblical Usage

This word is used five times in the Old Testament, appearing in poetic and wisdom literature (Job, Psalms, Proverbs) and prophecy (Nahum). It describes literal atmospheric cold (Job 37:9, Psalm 147:17), the physical discomfort of cold exposure (Job 24:7), and is employed in figurative comparisons. In Proverbs 25:20, it metaphorically represents an emotionally distressing condition. Its final use in Nahum 3:17 paints a vivid picture of helplessness and paralysis.

Etymology

קָרָה (qârâh) is the feminine form of the adjective קַר (qar, H7119), meaning 'cool' or 'cold.' It derives from the root ק.ר.ר (q.r.r), associated with the concept of being or becoming cold. Related words include קֹר (qor, H7119), another noun for 'cold,' and the verb קָרַר (qārar, H7134), meaning 'to be or grow cool.'

Semantic Range

This word enriches our understanding of God's sovereign power over creation, as He commands the cold (Job 37:9, Psalm 147:17). It also provides insight into biblical wisdom and compassion, illustrating through metaphor how insensitive actions can worsen another's spiritual or emotional distress, much like removing warmth in the cold (Proverbs 25:20). The imagery in Nahum 3:17 uses the concept of cold-induced paralysis to depict divine judgment and helplessness.

In the ancient Near East, exposure to cold was a serious threat due to limited means of heating and shelter. The 'cold of night' (Job 24:7) was a genuine danger, especially for the poor and vulnerable. This tangible reality made the term a powerful vehicle for metaphors about vulnerability, discomfort, and emotional states, which modern readers in climate-controlled environments might underappreciate.

קֹר (qor, H7119) — A nearly identical noun for 'cold,' often used interchangeably. שֶׁלֶג (sheleg, H7950) — 'Snow'; a specific, frozen form of precipitation that causes cold. כְּפוֹר (kephor, H3713) — 'Frost'; the icy coating that forms in cold conditions.

Word Details

Scripture References