neuter singular of ταχύς (as adverb); shortly, i.e. without delay, soon, or (by surprise) suddenly, or (by implication, of ease) readily:--lightly, quickly.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ταχύ (tachý)**, represented by `{{G5035}}`, functions as an adverb meaning **shortly**, **without delay**, **soon**, or **suddenly**. It can also imply readiness or ease, as in **lightly** or **quickly**. It appears **13 times** across **13 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily emphasizing speed and imminence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5035}}` is used to convey a sense of urgency. The book of Revelation uses it repeatedly in the phrase "I come **quickly**" to announce the imminent return of Christ and the subsequent judgment or reward ([[Revelation 22:12]], [[Revelation 3:11]]). This eschatological urgency is also tied to calls for repentance, with Christ warning that he will come **quickly** to judge if the church does not repent ([[Revelation 2:5]], [[Revelation 2:16]]). Beyond this, it is used as a command for immediate action, such as when the disciples are told to go **quickly** to announce Jesus's resurrection [[Matthew 28:7]] or when believers are admonished to agree with an adversary **quickly** [[Matthew 5:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which **tachý** appears:
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This verb is frequently paired with `{{G5035}}`, most notably in the declaration "I **come** quickly," establishing the certainty and speed of Christ's return [[Revelation 22:20]].
* `{{G3340}}` **metanoéō** (to repent): The call to **repent** is often given with the warning that judgment will come quickly, linking the need for a change of mind to the swiftness of divine action [[Revelation 2:5]].
* `{{G1453}}` **egeírō** (to waken, rouse, raise): The command to go quickly is issued in direct response to the news that Christ is **risen** from the dead, highlighting the monumental importance of the event [[Matthew 28:7]].
* `{{G2551}}` **kakologéō** (to revile): In a unique usage, `{{G5035}}` is translated as "lightly," indicating that one who can perform a miracle in Jesus' name cannot readily or **lightly** **speak evil** of him [[Mark 9:39]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5035}}` is significant, emphasizing themes of imminence and decisive action.
* **Eschatological Imminence:** The repeated use of "I come **quickly**" throughout Revelation underscores the nearness of Christ's return and the final judgment, urging believers to be prepared ([[Revelation 22:7]], [[Revelation 11:14]]).
* **Urgency of Response:** The word functions as a command for prompt obedience. The disciples' rapid departure from the tomb with "fear and great joy" [[Matthew 28:8]] and Martha's immediate rising to meet Jesus [[John 11:29]] model a swift response to divine encounters.
* **Swiftness of Judgment and Reward:** The speed of Christ's coming is directly linked to consequence. He comes **quickly** to give every man a **reward** `{{G3408}}` according to his **work** `{{G2041}}` [[Revelation 22:12]], but also to **fight** `{{G4170}}` against those who do not repent [[Revelation 2:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5035}}` is more than a simple indicator of speed. It is a term loaded with theological importance, conveying the profound urgency of Christ's return, the necessity of immediate repentance and obedience, and the swiftness of both divine reward and judgment. From a command to go **quickly** with good news to a promise of coming **suddenly** with a crown, **tachý** serves as a constant reminder to believers to live in a state of readiness and active faith.
TRV