### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mêrôwts**, represented by `{{H4793}}`, means a **race** or a run as a trial of speed. This specific term appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, making its single usage particularly significant. Its meaning is derived from the root word for "to run."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4793}}` is in [[Ecclesiastes 9:11]]. The author observes a fundamental truth "under the sun" `{{H8121}}`, stating that the **race** is not guaranteed to the swift `{{H7031}}`, nor is the battle `{{H4421}}` to the strong `{{H1368}}`. The verse uses the imagery of a race to illustrate that expected outcomes based on human ability are not certain. Instead, it concludes that "time `{{H6256}}` and chance `{{H6294}}` happeneth `{{H7136}}` to them all," highlighting a reality beyond human control.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of the race and its uncertain outcome is framed by several key related words in its context:
* `{{H7031}}` **qal** (swift): This word describes the quality one would expect to determine the winner of a race. The verse's point is that even being swift is not enough to secure victory [[Ecclesiastes 9:11]].
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (battle): Used in parallel with "race," this term broadens the principle from a simple contest to warfare, where strength does not guarantee success ([[Ecclesiastes 9:11]], [[2 Chronicles 20:15]]).
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (strong): The quality of being powerful or a warrior. This is the attribute that should logically win a battle, yet the verse states it is an insufficient guarantee [[Ecclesiastes 9:11]].
* `{{H6256}}` **ʻêth** (time): Presented as one of the true determining factors in life's events. The Bible affirms that God has made everything beautiful in his time [[Ecclesiastes 3:11]] and that there is an appointed time for His purposes [[Genesis 18:14]].
* `{{H6294}}` **pegaʻ** (chance): This describes a casual impact or occurence. Paired with "time," it governs the outcomes that human skill cannot control ([[Ecclesiastes 9:11]], [[1 Kings 5:4]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4793}}` is found entirely within its context in Ecclesiastes.
* **Human Limitation:** The verse is a powerful statement on the limits of human strength, speed, wisdom `{{H2450}}`, and skill `{{H3045}}`. It teaches that natural talents do not automatically lead to success, as seen when bread `{{H3899}}` is not for the wise or riches `{{H6239}}` for men of understanding [[Ecclesiastes 9:11]].
* **The Unpredictability of Life:** The central theme is that life "under the sun" `{{H8121}}` is not a simple equation of effort and reward. The factors of "time and chance" disrupt human expectations.
* **Divine Providence:** The verb "happeneth" `{{H7136}}` is from a root that can also mean to meet or befall. This same root is used when asking the LORD for "good speed" or to "meet" someone providentially ([[Genesis 24:12]], [[Exodus 3:18]]), suggesting that what appears as chance from a human perspective is within a larger framework.
### Summary
In summary, **mêrôwts** `{{H4793}}` is more than just a word for a race. In its single biblical use, it serves as a powerful metaphor for life itself. It teaches that victory, success, and provision are not guaranteed by one's own abilities. The verse challenges human pride by asserting that outcomes are ultimately subject to the greater, often unpredictable, forces of time and chance, which govern the events of all people.
TRV