Neqamah refers to acts of retribution or vengeance, appearing about 17 times in the OT. It describes both divine and human vengeance, though the theological thrust is that ultimate neqamah belongs to God alone (Deuteronomy 32:35). The word is used for the LORD's righteous recompense against enemies of His people and His covenant.
The concept of divine vengeance in the OT is inseparable from justice. God's neqamah is not arbitrary wrath but the execution of right judgment against those who have violated His covenant and oppressed His people. Deuteronomy 32:35 ('It is mine to avenge') establishes divine prerogative over ultimate justice, quoted by Paul in Romans 12:19 to call believers away from personal retaliation. The 'God of vengeance' (Psalm 94:1) is simultaneously the God who defends the innocent and sets things right — neqamah as restorative justice.