### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **táchos**, represented by `{{G5034}}`, refers to **a brief space of time**. It is frequently used with the preposition `en` `{{G1722}}` to signify action occurring in haste, **quickly**, **shortly**, or **speedily**. It appears 7 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible, highlighting its role in contexts demanding urgency and swiftness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G5034}}` emphasizes the imminence of divine plans and the need for immediate human response. It is used prophetically in Revelation to describe "things which must **shortly** come to pass" ([[Revelation 1:1]]; [[Revelation 22:6]]), framing the entire vision as near. It also functions as a command, as when the angel tells Peter to "Arise up **quickly**" [[Acts 12:7]]. The term further assures believers of God's prompt intervention, promising that He will "avenge them **speedily**" [[Luke 18:8]] and that the God of peace will "bruise Satan under your feet **shortly**" [[Romans 16:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the concept of speed and immediacy:
* `{{G1722}}` **en**: This is a primary preposition denoting position **"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc.** It is almost always paired with `{{G5034}}` to express urgency. While it often indicates a state, such as being "in Christ" [[2 Corinthians 5:17]], with `{{G5034}}` it specifies a temporal swiftness.
* `{{G4692}}` **speúdō**: A verb meaning to **"speed"** or **"make... haste unto"**. It signifies the action of hurrying, as when Zacchaeus was told to "make haste, and come down" [[Luke 19:5]]. In one instance, it is used alongside `{{G5034}}` to intensify the command to Paul: "Make haste `{{G4692}}`, and get thee quickly `{{G5034}}``{{G1722}}` out of Jerusalem" [[Acts 22:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5034}}` is significant, particularly in how it frames God's timing and relationship with His people.
* **Prophetic Imminence:** Its use at the beginning and end of Revelation underscores that the events described are not distant but are to unfold **shortly**, calling for the reader's immediate attention and readiness ([[Revelation 1:1]]; [[Revelation 22:6]]).
* **Swift Divine Justice:** The word provides assurance that God's justice is not slow or delayed. He promises to act **speedily** on behalf of the elect and bring His purposes to pass **shortly** ([[Luke 18:8]]; [[Romans 16:20]]).
* **Urgency of Obedience:** When used in a command from an angel or from Jesus, the inclusion of `{{G5034}}` highlights that divine instructions require an immediate, unhesitating response ([[Acts 12:7]]; [[Acts 22:18]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5034}}` is a crucial term for understanding biblical concepts of time and divine action. It moves beyond a simple notion of "soon" to convey a specific sense of urgency, imminence, and swift execution. Whether in prophetic announcements, divine commands, or promises of intervention, **táchos** consistently signals that God's timing is deliberate and that a rapid response is often required.
TRV