from רָגַע.; a wink (of the eyes), i.e. a very short space of time; instant, moment, space, suddenly.
Transliteration:regaʻ
Pronunciation:reh'-gah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word רֶגַע (regaʻ, `{{H7281}}`) is derived from the root רָגַע (ragaʻ, `{{H7280}}`), which carries a dual semantic range encompassing both "to stir, disturb" and "to give rest, quiet." However, רֶגַג (regaʻ, `{{H7281}}`) primarily captures the *brevity* or *suddenness* associated with a swift action, most notably "a wink of the eyes." This core meaning emphasizes an extremely short duration, an "instant" or "moment." Its semantic range extends to describe something happening "suddenly" or "in a short space of time." The emphasis is on immediacy and the fleeting nature of an event or state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term רֶגַע (regaʻ, `{{H7281}}`) appears frequently in the Hebrew Bible, consistently conveying the idea of a very brief period or a sudden occurrence. Its usage often highlights the speed of divine action or the transient nature of human experience.
* **Divine Judgment and Deliverance:** רֶגַע (regaʻ) is often employed to describe the swiftness of God's judgment or the suddenness of His intervention. In [[Numbers 16:21]], God threatens to "consume them in a moment" (regaʻ), illustrating the immediacy of His wrath against the rebellious. Similarly, [[Isaiah 29:5]] speaks of the destruction of the enemy occurring "at an instant suddenly" (regaʻ), underscoring the unexpected and decisive nature of divine retribution. Conversely, God's deliverance can also be instantaneous, though this is less explicitly stated with regaʻ than His judgment.
* **Divine Anger and Mercy:** A profound theological insight is revealed in [[Psalm 30:5]]: "For his anger endureth but a moment (regaʻ); in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." This verse beautifully contrasts God's momentary anger with His enduring favor. [[Isaiah 54:7]] echoes this sentiment: "For a small moment (regaʻ) have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee." Here, regaʻ emphasizes the temporary nature of God's disciplinary withdrawal, highlighting His ultimate, everlasting compassion.
* **Human Experience and Transience:** The brevity of worldly triumph or suffering is also captured by רֶגַע (regaʻ). [[Job 20:5]] states, "the triumphing of the wicked is short (regaʻ), and the joy of the hypocrite but for a moment." This usage underscores the fleeting nature of earthly prosperity apart from God. [[Jeremiah 4:20]] vividly portrays rapid devastation: "Destruction upon destruction is cried; for the whole land is spoiled: suddenly (regaʻ) are my tents spoiled, and my curtains in a moment (regaʻ)." This passage emphasizes the sudden and overwhelming nature of calamity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of רֶגַע (regaʻ, `{{H7281}}`) is intrinsically linked to its verbal root רָגַע (ragaʻ, `{{H7280}}`), which, despite its dual meaning of "to stir" and "to give rest," contributes to the idea of a swift, decisive action or a brief cessation.
Other Hebrew terms related to time, though not synonymous with רֶגַע (regaʻ), help to contextualize its specific nuance of "instantaneity":
* עֵת ('eth, `{{H6256}}`): A general term for "time" or "a specific appointed time."
* יוֹם (yom, `{{H3117}}`): "Day," referring to a longer, defined period.
* כֶּרֶגַע (ke-regaʻ): This is an adverbial construction meaning "like a moment" or "instantly," further emphasizing the suddenness.
The core concepts evoked by רֶגַע (regaʻ) include:
* **Transience:** The impermanence of various states, whether positive or negative.
* **Suddenness/Immediacy:** The unexpected and rapid unfolding of events.
* **Decisiveness:** Particularly in the context of divine action, highlighting the swift and effective execution of God's will.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of רֶגַע (regaʻ, `{{H7281}}`) is profound, offering insights into the character of God, the nature of human existence, and the dynamics of divine-human interaction.
* **God's Sovereignty Over Time:** The repeated use of רֶגַע (regaʻ) in relation to God's actions underscores His absolute sovereignty, even over the smallest increments of time. He can bring about His will instantly, whether in judgment or in the turning of His favor. This demonstrates His omnipotence and control.
* **The Nature of Divine Anger and Mercy:** Perhaps the most striking theological contribution of רֶגַע (regaʻ) is its use in describing God's anger as momentary ([[Psalm 30:5]], [[Isaiah 54:7]]). This stands in stark contrast to His enduring love and covenant faithfulness. It reveals a God who is indeed just and can act decisively in judgment, yet whose fundamental nature is characterized by patience, compassion, and a desire for reconciliation, making His wrath a temporary aberration rather than His abiding disposition.
* **Human Frailty and Hope:** For humanity, רֶגַע (regaʻ) serves as a potent reminder of the fleeting nature of earthly life and accomplishments ([[Job 20:5]]). This can evoke a sense of humility and urgency, prompting individuals to seek that which is eternal and truly lasting. Simultaneously, the knowledge that God's anger is but a moment offers immense hope and reassurance to the repentant, promising restoration and joy after temporary affliction.
* **Prophetic Urgency:** The concept of suddenness inherent in רֶגַע (regaʻ) resonates with prophetic warnings and promises. While not explicitly an eschatological term, it cultivates an awareness of the suddenness with which God's plans can unfold, urging readiness and faithfulness.
### Summary
The Hebrew word רֶגַע (regaʻ, `{{H7281}}`) denotes an "instant," "moment," or "a very short space of time," emphasizing extreme brevity and suddenness, akin to "a wink of the eyes." In biblical contexts, it frequently describes the swift and decisive nature of divine action, particularly God's judgment and the temporary duration of His anger, which contrasts sharply with His everlasting mercy. It also highlights the fleeting nature of human triumph and the sudden onset of calamity. Theologically, רֶגַג (regaʻ) underscores God's absolute sovereignty over time, His character of enduring love despite momentary wrath, and the transient nature of human experience, thereby inviting both awe at divine power and hope in His enduring faithfulness.
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