neuter singular of the comparative of ταχύς (as adverb); more swiftly, i.e. (in manner) more rapidly, or (in time) more speedily:--out (run), quickly, shortly, sooner.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **táchion**, represented by `{{G5032}}`, is an adverb that denotes comparative speed. It appears **5 times** in **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Its core definition is "more swiftly," which can be applied to actions that are more rapid in manner or more speedy in time, leading to translations like **quickly**, **shortly**, or **sooner**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5032}}` conveys both a sense of urgency and simple comparison. Jesus uses it to command an action be done **quickly** [[John 13:27]], setting a pivotal event in motion. In the epistles, it expresses a desire for a future event to happen **shortly** or **sooner**, such as the writer's anticipated arrival ([[1 Timothy 3:14]], [[Hebrews 13:23]]) or restoration [[Hebrews 13:19]]. The word is also used in a literal, physical sense in the narrative of the resurrection, where one disciple is described to have **outrun** another to the sepulchre [[John 20:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts where `{{G5032}}` is used:
* `{{G4390}}` **protréchō** (to run forward, i.e. outstrip, precede): This verb is paired directly with `{{G5032}}` in [[John 20:4]] to form the concept of "outrun," where moving more swiftly results in preceding someone else.
* `{{G5143}}` **tréchō** (to run or walk hastily): This is the basic action of running. In [[John 20:4]], two disciples **run** together, but `{{G5032}}` specifies that one performed this action more swiftly than the other.
* `{{G4413}}` **prōtos** (foremost (in time, place, order or importance)): This word describes the result of the action in [[John 20:4]], where the disciple who moved more swiftly (táchion) was the one who arrived **first** at the tomb.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G5032}}` lies in its ability to add a layer of urgency, anticipation, or competition to a narrative.
* **Narrative Pacing:** In the gospel of John, the word marks moments of acceleration. Jesus’ command to act **quickly** [[John 13:27]] hastens the timeline of the passion, while the race to the tomb [[John 20:4]] creates a vivid, fast-paced scene following the resurrection.
* **Relational Imminence:** In 1 Timothy and Hebrews, the use of **shortly** and **sooner** underscores the writers’ deep desire to close the distance with their recipients, highlighting the importance of personal presence and fellowship.
* **Comparative Action:** The word’s fundamental nature as a comparative adverb emphasizes a difference in speed, whether in a command that must be prioritized or a literal race between two individuals.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5032}}` is a precise adverb that does more than just mean "fast." It introduces a comparison, indicating an action that is faster than another or is desired to happen in the near future. Whether conveying a command from Jesus, the hopeful anticipation of an apostle, or the speed of a disciple, **táchion** effectively communicates a sense of greater swiftness and immediacy.
TRV