Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that 'Hashem is a consuming fire'?
A: Rashi explains that this metaphor teaches that Hashem's presence is powerful and purifying, like a fire that consumes impurities. Just as fire transforms what it touches, Hashem's justice refines the world. The Midrash (Sifrei) adds that this also refers to how Hashem zealously guards the sanctity of the relationship with the Jewish people.
Q: Why does the Torah describe Hashem as 'a jealous God'?
A: The Rambam (Hilchos Avodah Zarah 1:3) explains that this 'jealousy' refers to Hashem's absolute demand for exclusive worship, as idolatry violates the covenant. The Talmud (Avodah Zarah 54b) notes this isn't human jealousy, but a metaphor for how Hashem actively maintains the bond with His people.
Q: How should this verse affect our behavior today?
A: The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 428) derives from this that we must be careful in our devotion to Hashem, avoiding anything that resembles idolatry. Just as fire demands respect, we must approach our relationship with Hashem with awe and complete commitment.
Q: Isn't fire destructive? Why use this image for Hashem?
A: The Maharal (Gevuros Hashem Ch. 3) teaches that fire also represents transformation and revelation. Just as fire illuminates, Hashem's presence reveals truth. The 'consuming' aspect refers to how falsehood cannot endure before Divine truth, just as impurities are burned away in fire.
Q: Where else in Torah do we see the 'consuming fire' idea?
A: This appears at Mount Sinai (Devarim 9:3) and with the Mishkan (Vayikra 9:24). Rashi connects these instances, showing that Hashem's presence manifests as fire when giving the Torah and dwelling among Israel, emphasizing both His awe-inspiring holiness and intimate relationship with us.
The Nature of Hashem as a Consuming Fire
The verse "כִּי יְהוָה אֱלֹהֶיךָ אֵשׁ אֹכְלָה הוּא אֵל קַנָּא" (Devarim 4:24) describes Hashem as a "consuming fire" and a "jealous God." Rashi explains that this metaphor emphasizes Hashem's intolerance for idolatry—just as fire destroys whatever it touches, so too does Hashem's wrath consume those who stray after foreign gods. The imagery of fire also conveys the idea that Hashem's presence is both awe-inspiring and purifying, as fire refines metal by burning away impurities.
The Concept of Divine Jealousy (קנאה)
The term "אֵל קַנָּא" (a jealous God) does not imply human jealousy but rather denotes Hashem's exclusive claim to Israel's devotion. The Rambam (Hilchos Avodas Kochavim 2:1-2) teaches that idolatry is the gravest sin because it violates the covenant between Hashem and His people. The Midrash (Sifri Devarim 32) compares this to a king who demands his bride's undivided loyalty—similarly, Hashem expects complete fidelity from Bnei Yisrael.
Lessons from the Metaphor of Fire
Practical Implications
The Chofetz Chaim (in his commentary on Chumash) derives from this verse that just as one would not casually approach a raging fire, we must approach avodas Hashem with reverence and caution. The metaphor reminds us that our commitment to Torah must be absolute, as any deviation risks provoking divine "jealousy" in the form of consequences for abandoning the covenant.