יָקַד
to burn
Definition
The Hebrew verb יָקַד (yâqad) means to burn, but specifically denotes a burning that is intense, consuming, and often continuous. Its primary use describes the perpetual fire on the altar of burnt offering, which was never to go out (Leviticus 6:9, 6:12-13). In other contexts, it describes the kindling of God's wrath, portraying it as a fire that burns to the lowest depths (Deuteronomy 32:22) or as a judgment against nations (Isaiah 10:16). It can also refer to the burning of refuse or a broken pot, signifying complete destruction (Isaiah 30:14).
Biblical Usage
יָקַד is used nine times in the Old Testament, primarily in priestly and prophetic literature. In Leviticus, it describes the technical, ritual command for the altar fire to burn continually. In the Prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Deuteronomy), it is used metaphorically for divine judgment and wrath. For example, it describes God's anger burning against Israel (Jeremiah 15:14) and the fate of idolaters (Isaiah 65:5). The word consistently implies a powerful, sustained, and consuming fire.
Etymology
יָקַד is a primitive root. It is related to the noun יָקוֹד (yāqôd, H3341), meaning 'a burning' or 'a firebrand.' Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, like Ugaritic and Arabic, with similar meanings of 'to burn' or 'to be kindled,' indicating a common ancient root for the concept of fire.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it connects the perpetual worship in the Tabernacle/Temple with the reality of God's holy judgment. The 'fire burning on the altar continually' (Leviticus 6:13) symbolizes God's constant presence and acceptance of atonement. Conversely, when used of God's wrath, it portrays His active, consuming opposition to sin and rebellion. Understanding this dual usage—sustaining worship and executing judgment—enriches the biblical theme of God as a 'consuming fire' (Deuteronomy 4:24).
In its ritual context, the command for a fire to burn continuously on the altar (Leviticus 6:9, 6:12-13) was a unique requirement of Israelite worship. It required constant attention from the priests, ensuring that the means of atonement (the sacrifices) was always available. This perpetual flame differentiated the holy altar fire from common, domestic fires, marking it as dedicated solely to God's service.
בָּעַר (bāʿar, H1197) — a more general term for burning or consuming; often used for burning sacrifices, cities, or with anger. שָׂרַף (śārap̄, H8313) — to burn, scorch, or kindle; frequently used for burning objects (like idols) with fire, or for a refining fire.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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