### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **brachýs**, represented by `{{G1024}}`, is a term for **short**. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. Its base definition encompasses shortness in various contexts, including time, place, quantity, or number, and is translated as "few words," "little," or a "little while."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1024}}` is used to specify a limited measure. It denotes a short duration of time, as seen when Peter is recognized "after a **little while**" before his denial [[Luke 22:58]] and when Gamaliel commands the apostles be put forth for a "**little space**" [[Acts 5:34]]. It also describes a small quantity, such as Philip's assessment that two hundred pennyworth of bread would not be enough for everyone to take even a "**little**" [[John 6:7]]. The word can refer to a short distance, as when sailors on a ship went a "**little further**" before sounding the depths again [[Acts 27:28]]. The author of Hebrews uses it to describe the conciseness of his message, having written a letter in "**few words**" [[Hebrews 13:22]]. Most significantly, it is used to describe the status of Jesus, who was made "**a little** lower than the angels" for the suffering of death [[Hebrews 2:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which `{{G1024}}` appears:
* `{{G1642}}` **elattóō** (to lessen (in rank or influence):--decrease, make lower): This word is used alongside `{{G1024}}` to describe how Jesus was "made a **little** lower" ([[Hebrews 2:7]], [[Hebrews 2:9]]). It emphasizes a change in rank or influence, as also seen in John the Baptist's statement, "I must **decrease**" [[John 3:30]].
* `{{G3874}}` **paráklēsis** (imploration, hortation, solace:--comfort, consolation, exhortation, intreaty): This term is directly linked to `{{G1024}}` in Hebrews, where the author asks the brethren to suffer the "word of **exhortation**," which was written in "few words" [[Hebrews 13:22]]. It highlights the encouraging purpose of the concise message.
* `{{G1989}}` **epistéllō** (to enjoin (by writing), i.e. (genitive case) to communicate by letter (for any purpose):--write (a letter, unto)): The letter written in "few words" `{{G1024}}` is described with this verb, emphasizing the act of communication by letter [[Hebrews 13:22]]. This same verb is used when the apostles decided to **write** to the Gentile believers [[Acts 15:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1024}}` is most evident in its application to Christ.
* **Christ's Incarnational Humility:** The word is crucial for describing the incarnation. Jesus was made "**a little** lower than the angels" [[Hebrews 2:7]], a temporary status He undertook "for the **suffering** `{{G3804}}` of **death** `{{G2288}}`" [[Hebrews 2:9]]. This use of `{{G1024}}` defines His willing humiliation for the sake of humanity's salvation.
* **Brevity in Pivotal Moments:** The word's use to mark "a **little while**" [[Luke 22:58]] or a "**little space**" [[Acts 5:34]] occurs during critical turning points in the narrative. It highlights how brief moments can hold significant, often trial-filled, consequences.
* **Conciseness of Exhortation:** By describing a letter of **exhortation** `{{G3874}}` as being written in "**few words**" `{{G1024}}`, the author of Hebrews implies that profound and urgent spiritual truth does not require lengthy discourse [[Hebrews 13:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1024}}` is more than a simple descriptor of size or duration. It is a versatile term that conveys shortness in time, distance, quantity, and rank. From describing the physical limitations faced by people in the biblical narrative ([[John 6:7]], [[Acts 27:28]]) to articulating the profound theological truth of Christ's temporary, humble station below the angels [[Hebrews 2:9]], **brachýs** demonstrates how a single word for "little" or "short" can carry immense contextual weight and significance.
TRV