### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tachinós**, represented by `{{G5031}}`, means **curt, i.e. impending:--shortly, swift**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. This term is used to describe events that are fast-approaching or imminent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5031}}` is used to convey a sense of imminence and speed. In his second epistle, Peter uses the term to describe his own approaching death, stating he knows that **shortly** he must put off his tabernacle, as the Lord Jesus Christ had shown him [[2 Peter 1:14]]. The word is also used to describe the fate of false teachers who deny the Lord; they will bring upon themselves **swift** destruction [[2 Peter 2:1]]. In both instances, the word emphasizes that an event is not far off.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which `{{G5031}}` appears:
* `{{G684}}` **apṓleia** (ruin or loss): This term for **destruction** is directly qualified by `{{G5031}}` in the warning against false teachers, who bring upon themselves "swift **destruction**" [[2 Peter 2:1]].
* `{{G595}}` **apóthesis** (a laying aside): This word describes the "putting away (off)" of Peter's earthly body, an event he describes as happening **shortly** [[2 Peter 1:14]].
* `{{G5572}}` **pseudodidáskalos** (false teacher): The concept of **swift** destruction is applied directly to these spurious teachers who propagate erroneous doctrine [[2 Peter 2:1]].
* `{{G720}}` **arnéomai** (to contradict, i.e. disavow, reject, abnegate): This describes the action of false teachers who **deny** the Lord, leading to their swift destruction [[2 Peter 2:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5031}}` is tied to the concepts of divine timing and accountability.
* **Imminence of Judgment:** The term is used to emphasize that judgment upon false prophets and teachers is not a distant, abstract event. Their **destruction** is described as **swift**, highlighting the certainty and speed of divine retribution for those who lead others astray by denying the Lord [[2 Peter 2:1]].
* **Certainty of a Believer's End:** Peter uses the word to express his own understanding of his impending death. His statement that he would **shortly** put off his earthly "tabernacle" shows a sober acceptance of the end of his mortal life, a fact that was **shewed** to him by Jesus Christ [[2 Peter 1:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5031}}` is a specific and impactful word used to convey imminence. Though it appears only twice, it serves two distinct purposes: to warn of the **swift** judgment awaiting false teachers and to describe the **shortly** anticipated end of an apostle's earthly life. The term underscores that key spiritual events, whether of judgment or transition, are subject to a divine timetable and can be understood as impending.
TRV