Bible Strands
Joel 2:18
Then the LORD became jealous for His land, and He spared His people.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — God speaks in response to the priests' intercession in Joel 2:17, acting at the moment He turns from judgment to deliverance for Israel.
The words — וַ/יְקַנֵּ֥א (va/y.ka.Ne') denotes divine jealousy, and וַ/יַּחְמֹ֖ל (va/i.yach.Mol) conveys active compassion or sparing.
The thread — This motif of divine jealousy for His people appears in Zechariah 8:2 and Zechariah 1:14, while the language of divine compassion mirrors Psalm 103:13.
Why it lands — The text reports God's protective response to intercession, asking the reader to recognize that divine jealousy and mercy operate together to preserve His covenant people.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
Then will the Lord be jealous for his land, and pity his people.
Cross-references
- Zechariah 8:2 This is what the LORD of Hosts says: “I am jealous for Zion with great zeal; I am jealous for her with great fervor.”
- Psalms 103:13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.
- Zechariah 1:14 Then the angel who was speaking with me said, “Proclaim this word: This is what the LORD of Hosts says: ‘I am very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion,
- Lamentations 3:22 Because of the loving devotion of the LORD we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail.
- James 5:11 See how blessed we consider those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen the outcome from the Lord. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
- Isaiah 63:9 In all their distress, He too was afflicted, and the Angel of His Presence saved them. In His love and compassion He redeemed them; He lifted them up and carried them all the days of old.
- Isaiah 63:15 Look down from heaven and see, from Your holy and glorious habitation. Where are Your zeal and might? Your yearning and compassion for me are restrained.
- Isaiah 60:10 Foreigners will rebuild your walls, and their kings will serve you. Although I struck you in anger, yet in favor I will show you mercy.
- Jeremiah 31:20 Is not Ephraim a precious son to Me, a delightful child? Though I often speak against him, I still remember him. Therefore My heart yearns for him; I have great compassion for him,” declares the LORD.
- Luke 15:20 So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still in the distance, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.