from חִישׁ; properly, a hurry; hence (adverb) quickly; soon.
Transliteration:chîysh
Pronunciation:kheesh
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2440}}` (חִישׁ, *chîysh*) is presented as an adverb derived from the root verb `{{H2363}}` (חוּשׁ, *chûsh*). Its core meaning revolves around the concept of speed and immediacy. Primarily, it conveys "hurry," "haste," or "urgency." As an adverb, its semantic range extends to "quickly," "speedily," "soon," or "without delay." It emphasizes the rapid execution of an action or the swift arrival of an event, often implying a sense of promptness or an imperative to act swiftly.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While `{{H2440}}` (חִישׁ) is defined as an adverb meaning "quickly" or "soon," direct and unambiguous occurrences of this specific lemma as an independent adverbial form are exceedingly rare or debated within the standard Masoretic Text. Lexical resources often derive this adverbial sense from the verbal root `{{H2363}}` (חוּשׁ), which means "to make haste," "to hurry," or "to feel/perceive quickly."
The absence of readily identifiable direct occurrences of `{{H2440}}` as a distinct adverbial entry in major concordances suggests that its function might be more implicit, or that the Strong's number captures a potential grammatical form rather than a frequently attested word. When the concept of "haste" or "speed" is conveyed, the Hebrew Bible often employs other, more common adverbs such as `{{H4116}}` (מְהֵרָה, *meherah*, "quickly, speedily") or verbal forms of `{{H2363}}` (חוּשׁ) itself.
Therefore, while `{{H2440}}` theoretically denotes swiftness, its practical application in biblical texts primarily lies in understanding the broader concept of "haste" as expressed through its verbal root `{{H2363}}`. For example, the root `{{H2363}}` appears in contexts like [[Psalm 70:5]], where the psalmist implores God, "But I am poor and needy; make haste to me, O God!" (חוּשָׁה לִּי אֱלֹהִים). This illustrates the underlying concept of urgency from which `{{H2440}}` derives its meaning.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to `{{H2440}}` is its verbal root, `{{H2363}}` (חוּשׁ, *chûsh*), meaning "to hurry," "to make haste," or "to hasten." This root is foundational to understanding the concept of swiftness associated with `{{H2440}}`.
Other Hebrew words that convey similar notions of speed or promptness include:
* `{{H4116}}` (מְהֵרָה, *meherah*): A very common adverb for "quickly" or "speedily."
* `{{H926}}` (בָּחַל, *bachal*): To be impatient, sometimes implying a desire for quickness.
* `{{H6939}}` (קָבַע, *qava*): To be swift, though less common in this specific sense.
Concepts related to `{{H2440}}` and its root include:
* **Urgency:** The need for immediate action or response.
* **Promptness:** Acting without delay.
* **Swiftness:** Rapidity of movement or occurrence.
* **Divine Timing:** God's action, whether in judgment or salvation, often described as swift or timely.
* **Human Impatience/Eagerness:** The desire for things to happen quickly.
### Theological Significance
Although `{{H2440}}` itself is rare as a standalone adverb, the theological significance of "haste" or "quickness," as conveyed by its root `{{H2363}}` and related terms, is profound.
1. **Divine Action:** God is often depicted as one who acts swiftly. This can be in His righteous judgment, as seen in prophetic warnings of impending destruction ([[Isaiah 5:26]], where God "raises a signal for a distant nation" and "they come with speed swiftly"), or in His compassionate salvation, where the psalmist frequently pleads with God to "make haste" to deliver ([[Psalm 71:12]], [[Psalm 70:5]]). This highlights God's active involvement in history and His responsiveness to His people's cries.
2. **Human Response:** The call for humans to "make haste" or to act "quickly" often relates to obedience, repentance, or seeking God. Delay in spiritual matters can be portrayed negatively, implying a lack of faith or commitment. Conversely, prompt obedience is often a sign of devotion. The urgency of the divine call requires a swift and decisive human response.
3. **Eschatological Hope:** The concept of "soon" or "quickly" also carries eschatological weight, particularly in prophetic literature, referring to the imminent fulfillment of God's promises or judgments. This instills both a sense of anticipation and a call to readiness.
### Summary
`{{H2440}}` (חִישׁ, *chîysh*) is an adverb defined as "quickly" or "soon," derived from the verb `{{H2363}}` (חוּשׁ), meaning "to make haste." While the specific lemma `{{H2440}}` is exceedingly rare or debated as a distinct adverbial occurrence in the Masoretic Text, its meaning is firmly rooted in the concept of swiftness and urgency found in its verbal origin. The theological significance of "haste" in the Bible is robust, reflecting both God's swiftness in judgment and salvation, and the imperative for humanity to respond promptly to His call. The word, though obscure in its direct form, points to a vital biblical theme of time, divine action, and human responsibility.
TRV