The Hebrew word gûwz, represented by H1468, is a primitive root. While its proper meaning is "to shear off," it is used figuratively in scripture to convey the sense of passing rapidly, to bring, or to cut off. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible.
The two uses of H1468 illustrate its distinct figurative applications. In Numbers, it describes an act of divine provision, where "there went forth a wind from the LORD, and brought quails from the sea" Numbers 11:31, showing a rapid transit of a physical object. In contrast, Psalms uses the word to describe the swift and fleeting nature of human life, stating that our years are "soon cut off, and we fly away" Psalms 90:10, emphasizing a sudden end.
Several related words provide additional context to the events where H1468 is found:
- H7958 sᵉlâv (quails): This word refers to the quail collectively and is the object that is "brought" by the action of H1468 in the wilderness. God provided for the people when "he brought quails, and satisfied them with the bread of heaven" Psalms 105:40.
- H5203 nâṭash (let fall, forsake): This word is used in conjunction with H1468 in the account of the quails. After the wind "brought" them, the Lord did let them fall by the camp for the Israelites Numbers 11:31. This term is also used elsewhere to mean forsake or cast off Judges 6:13.
The theological significance of H1468 is rooted in its depiction of swift, decisive action, whether creative or conclusive.
- Divine Provision: The use of H1468 in Numbers 11:31 highlights God's power to act quickly and decisively in nature to provide for His people. The sudden appearance of the quails is a direct result of His command.
- Brevity of Life: The "cutting off" described in Psalms 90:10 serves as a stark reminder of human frailty and the swiftness with which life passes. It frames mortality as a rapid event under God's sovereignty.
In summary, H1468 is a potent, though infrequently used, term. Its two appearances powerfully contrast God's ability to rapidly bring forth provision with the rapid "cutting off" of human life. The word gûwz demonstrates how a single root can be applied to vastly different contexts—the arrival of food and the end of life—to underscore the theme of sudden, powerful action.
TRV