### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châphaz**, represented by `{{H2648}}`, is a primitive root that describes a sudden, startled reaction. Its core meaning is to start up suddenly, which by implication leads to hastening away, fearing, or trembling. It appears **9 times** in **9 unique verses**, often depicting a state of alarm or panicked flight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2648}}` captures moments of extreme urgency and distress. It is used to describe David’s desperate flight from Saul, where he "made **haste** to get away" [[1 Samuel 23:26]]. Similarly, when Mephibosheth’s nurse fled with him after hearing of Saul and Jonathan's deaths, it was her **haste** to flee that caused him to fall and become lame [[2 Samuel 4:4]]. The word can also describe a state of emotional panic, as when the psalmist admits he spoke in his **haste**, wrongly concluding he was "cut off" from God [[Psalms 31:22]] or that "All men are liars" [[Psalms 116:11]]. In a military context, Israelite soldiers are commanded not to **tremble** before their enemies [[Deuteronomy 20:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of fear and agitation surrounding `{{H2648}}`:
* `{{H926}}` **bâhal**: Meaning to tremble inwardly or be suddenly alarmed or agitated. It is used alongside `{{H2648}}` to describe the reaction of kings who, upon seeing God's power, "were troubled, and hasted away" [[Psalms 48:5]].
* `{{H5127}}` **nûwç**: This word means to flee or vanish away. It is often the direct action that results from the state of `{{H2648}}`, as seen when Jonathan's nurse "made **haste** `{{H2648}}` to **flee** `{{H5127}}`" [[2 Samuel 4:4]].
* `{{H3372}}` **yârêʼ**: This is a primary root for "to fear." It is presented as a state that God’s people should avoid, linked directly with the command not to **tremble** `{{H2648}}` in the face of battle [[Deuteronomy 20:3]].
* `{{H7993}}` **shâlak**: This word means to throw out, down, or away. It illustrates a consequence of haste, as when the Syrians **cast away** their garments and vessels in their panicked retreat [[2 Kings 7:15]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{H2648}}` is primarily tied to the human response to fear and crisis.
* **Human Frailty:** The word highlights a state of panicked reaction where judgment is impaired. The psalmist's declarations made "in my **haste**" are later recognized as expressions of doubt and distress rather than settled truth ([[Psalms 31:22]], [[Psalms 116:11]]).
* **Reaction to Divine Power:** While humans are told not to tremble, `{{H2648}}` is used to describe the appropriate reaction of hostile forces or even nature to the power of God. Enemy kings "hasted away" in terror [[Psalms 48:5]], and the waters of creation "**hasted** away" at God's rebuke [[Psalms 104:7]].
* **A State Opposed to Faith:** The command in [[Deuteronomy 20:3]] not to **tremble** frames this panicked state as the opposite of the courage and trust that should characterize God's people. In contrast, the mighty creature in Job "hasteth not," indicating a trust and lack of fear [[Job 40:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2648}}` is not just about moving quickly; it is about a sudden, panicked rush rooted in fear or alarm. It powerfully illustrates human weakness in the face of danger and the overwhelming awe inspired by divine power. The term serves as a recurring reminder that the hasty, trembling response of fear is a state to be overcome through faith and trust in God's command not to be afraid.
TRV