### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâchats**, represented by `{{H5169}}`, means **to be urgent** or to **require haste**. It is a very specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use highlights a moment of critical, time-sensitive need.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H5169}}` is used by David to explain his unprepared state to Ahimelech. He states, "the king's business required **haste**" [[1 Samuel 21:8]]. This context emphasizes a situation of such extreme urgency that normal preparations were impossible, forcing David to flee without his sword or weapons.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (a word; by implication, a matter... or thing): In the verse where `{{H5169}}` appears, this word is translated as "business," referring to the urgent matter from the king [[1 Samuel 21:8]]. It more broadly refers to a "word" or "thing," as in God's message to Abram [[Genesis 15:1]].
* `{{H1961}}` **hâyâh** (to exist, i.e. be or become... require): This verb, translated as "required" in the passage, gives the sense of being or existence to the urgency. It is the same foundational verb used for God's creative declaration, "Let there **be** light" [[Genesis 1:3]] and His own name, "I **AM**" [[Exodus 3:14]].
### Theological Significance
While used only once, the context of `{{H5169}}` touches on significant theological concepts through its associated words.
* **The Priority of a Commission:** The phrase "the king's business" `{{H1697}}` required haste, establishing a principle of urgency tied to a command from an authority [[1 Samuel 21:8]]. This highlights how a "word" or "matter" from a superior dictates immediate action, a concept echoed in the divine "word of the LORD" found in other passages [[Genesis 15:1]].
* **The State of Being Urgent:** The verb "required" comes from `{{H1961}}` **hâyâh**, the fundamental verb for "to be" or "to exist." This links the urgency not just to a command, but to a state of being that defined the situation. The same verb underpins God's creative power ("let there **be** light") and His covenantal presence ("I will **be** your God") ([[Genesis 1:3]], [[Leviticus 26:12]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5169}}` provides a specific and singular focus on the concept of **haste**. Though it appears only once, its placement in the narrative of David's flight [[1 Samuel 21:8]] is instructive. It demonstrates how a pressing "business" `{{H1697}}` can dictate action, and through its connection to the fundamental verb for existence, `{{H1961}}`, it frames this urgency as an overriding state of being. The word **nâchats** serves as a potent example of how even the rarest biblical terms derive rich meaning from their immediate context.
TRV