### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dâchaph**, represented by `{{H1765}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to urge, i.e. hasten; (be) haste(-ned), pressed on**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently describing a state of being compelled to move with speed and urgency due to an external force or internal pressure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1765}}` is predominantly used in the book of Esther to convey the speed of royal decrees. When Haman's wicked plan is enacted, the messengers are "being **hastened** by the king's commandment" [[Esther 3:15]]. Later, this same urgency is applied to the counter-decree that saves the Jewish people, where the posts are "pressed on" by the king's word [[Esther 8:14]]. The term also describes personal haste driven by consequence, as when Haman **hasted** to his house in mourning and shame [[Esther 6:12]], or when King Azariah **hasted** to leave the temple after being smitten with leprosy by the LORD [[2 Chronicles 26:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of this urgent movement:
* `{{H926}}` **bâhal** (to ... hasten anxiously): This word is used directly alongside `{{H1765}}` to describe the couriers being "hastened `{{H926}}` and pressed on `{{H1765}}`" [[Esther 8:14]], suggesting an anxious or sudden haste. It is also used when the priests "thrust him out `{{H926}}`" as King Azariah himself "hasted `{{H1765}}`" to leave [[2 Chronicles 26:20]].
* `{{H7323}}` **rûwts** (to run ... post): This word identifies the very messengers, or "posts `{{H7323}}`," who are the subjects being "hastened `{{H1765}}`" in Esther's narrative ([[Esther 3:15]], [[Esther 8:14]]). It defines the action these hastened individuals perform.
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go ... out): This term for going out is often the result of being hastened. The posts "went out `{{H3318}}`, being hastened `{{H1765}}`" [[Esther 3:15]], and King Azariah "hasted `{{H1765}}` also to go out `{{H3318}}`" [[2 Chronicles 26:20]], linking the impetus to the resulting departure.
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H1765}}` centers on the inescapable nature of powerful commands and consequences.
* **Authority and Urgency:** The word is twice linked directly to a "king's commandment" ([[Esther 3:15]], [[Esther 8:14]]). This demonstrates that the decrees of a monarch carry an inherent urgency that compels immediate action.
* **Divine Judgment:** In 2 Chronicles, the haste is a direct result of God's intervention. King Azariah's need to flee is not a choice but a compulsion because "the LORD had smitten him" [[2 Chronicles 26:20]], showing that divine judgment also forces an urgent response.
* **Personal Shame:** Haman’s haste is not driven by a royal or divine command, but by the internal pressure of humiliation. He is compelled to rush home in disgrace after being forced to honor Mordecai [[Esther 6:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1765}}` is a specific and potent term for being urgently impelled. Though used sparingly, its appearances are significant, highlighting moments where royal authority, divine retribution, or profound shame forces individuals to act with non-negotiable speed. It illustrates how external and internal pressures can override normal pace, compelling an immediate and hurried response.
TRV