### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chîysh**, represented by `{{H2440}}`, is an adverb derived from a root word signifying a hurry. It is defined as **quickly** or **soon**. Despite its potent meaning, it is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H2440}}` is found in a reflection on the brevity of human life. [[Psalms 90:10]] states that while a lifespan may reach seventy or eighty years, it is ultimately characterized by labor and sorrow, "for it is **soon** cut off, and we fly away." In this context, **chîysh** provides the crucial emphasis on the rapid and sudden nature of life's conclusion, highlighting its transient quality.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Psalms 90:10]] illuminate the theme of life's brevity:
* `{{H1468}}` **gûwz** (cut off): This word is directly paired with **chîysh**. Defined as to "shear off" or, figuratively, "passing rapidly," it describes the action that happens **soon**. Its sense in [[Psalms 90:10]] is that life is abruptly ended.
* `{{H5774}}` **ʻûwph** (fly away): This is the consequence of being "soon cut off." The word means to **fly away** or **flee away**, poetically describing the departure of life. It is similarly used to describe how riches can make wings and **fly away** [[Proverbs 23:5]].
* `{{H1369}}` **gᵉbûwrâh** (strength): This term, meaning **force**, **might**, or **power**, is presented in [[Psalms 90:10]] as the very reason a life might be extended to eighty years. However, the verse immediately shows that even this exceptional **strength** does not prevent life from ending quickly.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2440}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use.
* **The Brevity of Life:** The central theme underscored by `{{H2440}}` is the fleeting nature of human existence. Its placement in [[Psalms 90:10]] serves as a definitive statement that a full life, even one of eighty years, passes **quickly**.
* **The Limit of Human Strength:** The verse contrasts human **strength** `{{H1369}}` with the swift passage of time. Even when life is extended "by reason of strength," its essence is still described as **labour** `{{H5999}}` and **sorrow** `{{H205}}`, and it is ultimately "soon cut off."
* **The Swiftness of the End:** The combination of **chîysh** ("soon") with **gûwz** ("cut off") and **ʻûwph** ("fly away") paints a picture of a sudden departure rather than a slow decline, emphasizing the swift finality of mortal life [[Psalms 90:10]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H2440}}` **chîysh** is used only once, its impact is significant. It functions as a powerful adverb that defines the biblical perspective on the human lifespan presented in [[Psalms 90:10]]. By emphasizing that life is **soon** over, it frames our days `{{H3117}}` not by their potential length or **strength** `{{H1369}}`, but by their swift conclusion. The word is a poignant and concise reminder of the transient nature of life before it is "cut off" and we "fly away."
TRV