### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yâchar**, represented by `{{H3186}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to delay** or **tarry longer**. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance, however, occurs at a critical moment, highlighting the consequences of procrastination and failure to adhere to a set time.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H3186}}` is found in the narrative of Amasa, who was commanded to gather the men of Judah. The scripture states that Amasa "went to assemble the men of Judah: but he **tarried longer** than the set time which he had appointed him" [[2 Samuel 20:5]]. This act of delaying past a specific, appointed deadline is the central context for this word, linking it directly to themes of duty, timing, and obedience.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of delay in contrast to divinely appointed times:
* `{{H309}}` **'âchar** (to loiter; procrastinate; delay): This word, used alongside `{{H3186}}` in its only appearance, carries the broader meaning of being late or deferring action. It is used to warn against being "slack" in paying a vow to God [[Deuteronomy 23:21]] and as a plea for God Himself not to "defer" in acting [[Daniel 9:19]].
* `{{H3259}}` **yâʻad** (to fix upon; appoint; meet): This is the root for the idea of an appointment. Amasa's failure was in missing the time that was *appointed*. The term is used when Job's friends "had made an appointment together" to comfort him [[Job 2:11]] and when God promises to *meet* with His people [[Exodus 25:22]].
* `{{H4150}}` **môwʻêd** (an appointment; a fixed time or season): This noun describes the "set time" that Amasa missed. It is a crucial word for understanding God's established order, used for the lights in the sky that mark "seasons" [[Genesis 1:14]] and for the "appointed time" of a prophetic vision [[Habakkuk 2:3]].
* `{{H6021}}` **ʻĂmâsâʼ** (burden; Amasa): The man who tarried longer. His story is one of political maneuvering, where his delay had significant repercussions during a period of instability in the kingdom [[2 Samuel 20:10]].
### Theological Significance
Though rare, the concept introduced by `{{H3186}}` carries significant theological weight, emphasizing the contrast between human delay and divine faithfulness.
* **The Importance of Timely Obedience:** Amasa's failure to meet his appointed deadline [[2 Samuel 20:5]] serves as a narrative example of the consequences of delay. This theme is reinforced by direct commands not to "defer" or be "slack" in fulfilling vows made to God [[Ecclesiastes 5:4]].
* **Divine Faithfulness to Set Times:** While humans may tarry, God is presented as one who adheres to His own appointments. His prophetic vision "will not tarry" [[Habakkuk 2:3]], and He promises to act at the "set time" to show favor to His people [[Psalms 102:13]].
* **Consequences of Procrastination:** The context of Amasa's story shows that his delay was not a minor issue; it occurred during a critical moment of national security and ultimately contributed to his downfall and death [[2 Samuel 20:10]]. This illustrates that delaying a command can lead to severe and irreversible outcomes.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3186}}` **yâchar**, while appearing only once, powerfully illustrates the concept of failing to act within an appointed time. Its singular use, surrounded by related terms for appointments and procrastination, establishes a clear biblical principle: prompt obedience is critical, and delay can have dire consequences. The word serves as a counterpoint to the nature of God, who is always faithful to His own set times and promises.
TRV