Proverbs 6:34
For jealousy is the rage of a man: therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
גָּ֑בֶר
of a man
H1397
גָּ֑בֶר
of a man
Strong's:
H1397
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, a valiant man or warrior; generally, a person simply
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
5 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יַ֝חְמ֗וֹל
therefore he will not spare
H2550
יַ֝חְמ֗וֹל
therefore he will not spare
Strong's:
H2550
Word #:
6 of 8
to commiserate; by implication, to spare
Cross References
Proverbs 27:4Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?Song of Solomon 8:6Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame.
Historical Context
Mosaic Law prescribed death for adultery (Leviticus 20:10). Though enforcement varied, the severity reflected adultery's covenant-breaking gravity. In cultures where law didn't prosecute, wronged husbands often took personal vengeance. This verse warns that adultery provokes justifiable wrath. Song of Solomon 8:6 describes love's jealousy as 'cruel as the grave' - betrayed love burns with fierce anger.
Questions for Reflection
- How does understanding adultery's profound betrayal affect your view of marital faithfulness?
- What forms of 'adultery' (spiritual, emotional) might provoke God's jealous fury similarly?
- How should recognizing the wounded party's justified anger inform your approach to sin and repentance?
Analysis & Commentary
Jealousy is a husband's fury; he will show no mercy in the day of vengeance. The Hebrew 'qinah' (jealousy/zeal) describes righteous protective passion. The betrayed husband's rage is justified. 'Chamal' (spare/show mercy) indicates that mercy will not moderate justice. Adultery violates covenant and wounds love profoundly. The personal nature of sexual sin produces uniquely intense response. This warns: don't expect mercy from those you've deeply betrayed.