קְרִי

קְרִי

hostile encounter

Definition

The Hebrew noun קְרִי (qᵉrîy) refers to a hostile encounter or opposition, specifically describing a state of adversity or antagonism. In its biblical usage, it consistently denotes a condition of being 'contrary' or in opposition, often used to describe God's disciplinary stance toward disobedience. All its occurrences are found in Leviticus 26, where it describes the escalating 'hostility' or 'contrary' actions God will take against Israel if they persist in covenant unfaithfulness (e.g., Leviticus 26:23-24). The word conveys a relational breach, picturing God setting Himself in opposition to His people as a consequence of their rebellion.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in Leviticus 26, appearing seven times within the covenant curses section (Leviticus 26:14-45). It describes the progressive severity of God's disciplinary measures if Israel breaks the covenant. The usage follows a pattern: after each warning, if the people remain unrepentant, God promises to increase the 'hostility' or 'contrariness' of His actions (e.g., Leviticus 26:21, 23, 24, 27, 28). It is also mentioned as something the people must confess and from which they must turn in order to receive restoration (Leviticus 26:40-41).

Etymology

Derived from the root קָרָה (qārâ, H7136), which means 'to encounter, meet, befall.' While the root can be neutral (simply 'to happen'), the noun form קְרִי developed a specialized negative sense of a 'hostile encounter' or 'adversity.' This semantic shift highlights how a meeting or event can take on a specifically antagonistic character.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it vividly portrays the covenant consequences of sin. It shows that God's opposition is not arbitrary but a measured, escalating response to persistent rebellion, intended to lead to repentance. Understanding קְרִי enriches the reading of Leviticus 26 by emphasizing the relational rupture caused by covenant-breaking and the seriousness with which God views the holiness of His people. It underscores the biblical theme that God actively disciplines those He loves (Proverbs 3:11-12; Hebrews 12:6). In its ancient Near Eastern context, treaty or covenant documents commonly listed curses for disobedience. The use of קְרִי in Leviticus 26 fits this pattern, communicating to Israel in terms they would understand from international diplomacy: persistent violation of a sovereign's treaty leads to hostile action. The modern concept of impersonal 'bad luck' is foreign here; this is a personal, judicial response from the covenant King. אֹיֵב (ʾōyēḇ, H341) — a general term for 'enemy,' often personal or national, whereas קְרִי describes a state of hostile opposition or adversity. צָר (ṣār, H6862) — means 'adversary' or 'distress,' often from a tight, pressing situation; קְרִי focuses more on the encounter itself. מְרִיבָה (mᵉrîḇâ, H4808) — denotes 'strife' or 'contention,' typically in quarrels; קְרִי implies a positioned opposition.

Word Details