Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Vengeance”
The biblical word “Vengeance” traces back to Hebrew / Greek (naqam (Hebrew), ekdikesis (Greek)), where it meant “Retribution; repayment for injury; the avenging of a wrong”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “The act of avenging; punishment inflicted as a return for injury”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Hebrew / Greeknaqam (Hebrew), ekdikesis (Greek)Retribution; repayment for injury; the avenging of a wrong
Hebrew naqam (H5358) vengeance/avenging (Deuteronomy 32:35, Romans 12:19). Greek ekdikesis (G1557) righteous justice/vengeance (Luke 18:7; Romans 12:19). Also: noqem (avenger).
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinvindictaDivine retribution for sin; righteous punishment; God's just retaliation
Latin vindicta (vengeance, punishment) from vindicare (to avenge). Medieval theology distinguished between human vengeance (forbidden) and divine vengeance (righteous).
Modern English
EnglishvengeanceThe act of avenging; punishment inflicted as a return for injury
From Old French vengeance via Latin vindicta. From Middle English venge (avenge). Theological use emphasizes God's righteous justice.