ESH OKLAH, EL KANNA: CONSUMING FIRE, JEALOUS GOD

Understanding Esh Oklah and El Kanna

The names Esh Oklah (AISH o-KLAH) and El Kanna (EL kan-NAH) reflect the nature of God as both a Consuming Fire and a Jealous God. His jealousy stems from a deep, unwavering love that demands our wholehearted devotion. This isn't the negative jealousy often seen in human relationships; instead, it represents God's zealous commitment to His glory and holiness.

God's Manifestations

Throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, God appears as fire—such as in the burning bush, as a pillar of fire, or on Mount Sinai, where His glory was perceived as a consuming fire. These images illustrate God's power and holiness, often associated with His righteous anger against sin.

God’s jealousy is likened to the emotions of a husband feeling betrayed by an unfaithful wife. This analogy underscores His desire for loyalty and exclusivity in our relationship with Him, as emphasized in the First Commandment prohibiting the worship of other gods. Jesus reinforced this exclusivity when He stated that He is the only way to the Father (John 14:6-7).

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Praying to Esh Oklah, El Kanna

Reflecting on Our Devotion

Imagine being in a relationship where your partner showed indifference to your actions, such as dating others or staying out all night. Most would feel hurt and disrespected by such indifference.

Similarly, God's jealousy is not a flaw but a reflection of His passionate love for us. He longs for our devotion and commitment, demanding that we place Him first in our lives.

This concept may feel intimidating, but it also reminds us of the refining fire that God uses to shape us into His image. In the words of Handel’s Messiah, we are reminded of the refining fire that purifies us.

A Prayer of Devotion

Consuming Fire, Jealous God, Esh Oklah, El Kanna, I bow before you in worship and gratitude. Thank you for your unwavering love. Shape me with your fire and help me separate from anything that hinders my relationship with you. May you always be the first and greatest love in my life.

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Promises Associated with Esh Oklah, El Kanna

1. "Be careful that you don’t forget the promise that Yahweh your Elohim made to you. Don’t make your own carved idols or statues that represent anything Yahweh your Elohim has forbidden. Yahweh your Elohim is Esh Oklah, El Kanna." (Deuteronomy 4:23-24)

2. "Wear me as a signet ring on your heart, as a ring on your hand. Love is as overpowering as death. Devotion is as unyielding as the grave. Love’s flames are flames of fire, flames that come from Yah." (Song of Songs 8:6)

3. "Can any of us live through a fire that destroys? Can any of us live through a fire that burns forever? The person who does what is right and speaks the truth will live." (Isaiah 33:14-15)

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Esh Oklah and El Kanna remind us of God's powerful presence and His passionate desire for our loyalty. In acknowledging Him as our Consuming Fire and Jealous God, we can grow in our love and commitment, allowing Him to refine us into the people He created us to be.