Names of God - El Qana - Word Study

Names of God Series

El Qana: Zealous God

Welcome to our Names of God series. In this series, we are working our way through the names or characteristics of God found in scripture. It is important to remember that each of these names simply give us a partial glimpse into the innumerable characteristics of the Self-Existing I AM. They are not meant to be final; instead they give us insight into how humans have experienced and responded to The Eternal One over time. 

This week, we are looking at El Qana, or Zealous God. Let’s take a look:

Hebrew Root + Letters

קַנָאִ: qof-nun-aleph

Qof: beyond awareness, horizon -קַ

Nun: life, continuation, unfolding-נָ

Aleph: strength, breath, initiating presence-אִ

A few things to notice…

• These letters point to the idea that The Eternal exists with and beyond our awareness, and is actively unfolding/continuing life. 

• There is unseen activity here. Life is initiated, sustained, and protected by The Eternal One, even when we are unaware of it. 

• The Eternal is not reaching for what doesn’t belong or come from Him.

  • The Eternal is steadily and protectively caring for her children. 

  • This all happens whether we are aware or not. 

In Scripture, El Qana first shows up in the Ten Words (Commandments) found in Exodus 20:5

“You are not to bow down and serve any image, for I, the Eternal your God, am a (zealous) God. As for those who are not loyal to Me, their children will endure the consequences of their sins for three or four generations.” -The VOICE (modified)

And again in Deuteronomy 6:15

“The Eternal your God is living right among you, and He’s a (zealous) God. He would become furious if you were unfaithful to Him—He’d wipe you off the face of the earth!” The VOICE (modified)

Notice that both of these (and most versions) use the word jealous where I inserted the word zealous. Though the English words zealous and jealous come from the same Greek root, they do not have the same meaning. For centuries “jealous” has had a negative connotation associated with infidelity and envy. Zealous, on the other hand, implies protective commitment and pursuit of that which you love. 

A simple way to feel through this on your own: 

El Qana is the Infinite, initiating Presence who continues unfolding life beyond our awareness and is fiercely committed to protecting His children. 

A question to ponder: 

Am I as zealous and protective of my relationship with the Eternal as the Eternal is about me?