### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **'êbeh**, represented by `{{H16}}`, is defined as both **papyrus** and **swift**, stemming from a root that implies bending toward. It appears 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, signifying a specific and impactful use of the term.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H16}}` is used to convey a sense of rapid movement and transience. In [[Job 9:26]], it describes the passing of "swift ships," emphasizing speed and the fleeting nature of certain phenomena, likening them to an "eagle that hasteth to the prey." This single usage highlights its role in conveying profound brevity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in proximity to `{{H16}}` enhance its meaning of speed and transience:
* `{{H2498}}` **châlaph** (pass away, hasten away): This root emphasizes movement and change, mirroring the swift passing described by `{{H16}}` in [[Job 9:26]].
* `{{H591}}` **'ŏnîyâh** (ship): This term refers to the primary object described as swift by `{{H16}}` in [[Job 9:26]], illustrating the direct context of rapid motion.
* `{{H5404}}` **nesher** (eagle): Used in parallel with the swift ships in [[Job 9:26]], it provides another image of quick and forceful movement.
* `{{H2907}}` **ṭûws** (haste, pounce): This term directly describes the eagle's swiftness in [[Job 9:26]], reinforcing the theme of rapid action.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of `{{H16}}` contributes to a broader biblical theme of **transience and the brevity of life**.
* **Swift Passage of Life:** As depicted in [[Job 9:26]], the word contributes to the powerful imagery of life passing quickly, like "swift ships" and a "hastening eagle," emphasizing the rapid flow of existence.
* **Figurative Language for Impermanence:** Drawing on its base definition, `{{H16}}` can implicitly suggest the fragile and easily moved nature of **papyrus**, which aligns with the swift and fleeting quality of life it describes. This connection to a material like papyrus underscores the delicate and impermanent nature of human experience.
* **Urgency and Fleeting Time:** The concept of swiftness inherent in `{{H16}}` can highlight a sense of urgency or the ungraspable speed of time within the biblical narrative.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H16}}` is a precise term used to denote **swiftness**, appearing in a single, poignant verse. While its usage is rare, it powerfully contributes to the biblical theme of the rapid and often ungraspable passage of time and events, drawing a vivid picture of speed and transience.
TRV