### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bâzâq**, represented by `{{H965}}`, is defined as a **flash of lightning**. Originating from an unused root meaning to lighten, this term appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. Its rarity makes its single appearance highly significant, used to describe a sudden, brilliant, and powerful visual phenomenon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H965}}` is found in the prophet Ezekiel's vision of the heavenly chariot. It vividly describes the motion of the celestial beings accompanying the throne of God. The text states, "And the living creatures ran and returned as the appearance of a **flash of lightning**" [[Ezekiel 1:14]]. Here, **bâzâq** is not merely a weather event but a divine simile, used to convey the incomprehensible speed and energy of God's servants in the spiritual realm.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H965}}` in its only verse is illuminated by the surrounding words that build the scene:
* `{{H2416}}` **chay**: This word for **life (or living thing)** identifies the subjects as "living creatures," emphasizing that this lightning-like speed is characteristic of divine, living beings [[Ezekiel 1:14]].
* `{{H4758}}` **marʼeh**: Defined as **an appearance (the thing seen)**, this term frames the entire event as a vision. The **flash of lightning** is part of the "appearance," a visual manifestation of a spiritual reality.
* `{{H7519}}` **râtsâʼ**: This verb, meaning **to run**, describes the forward motion of the creatures. Paired with its counterpart, it establishes the first half of their instantaneous movement [[Ezekiel 1:14]].
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb**: Meaning **to turn back**, this word completes the action. The creatures "ran and returned," and it is this complete, impossibly fast action that is compared to a **flash of lightning** [[Ezekiel 1:14]].
### Theological Significance
Though appearing only once, the theological weight of `{{H965}}` is derived from its powerful context in Ezekiel's vision.
* **Divine Speed and Power:** The primary significance of **bâzâq** is to illustrate the supernatural speed of God's agents. Their ability to "run and return" like a **flash of lightning** signifies that their action is immediate, powerful, and beyond any earthly limitation [[Ezekiel 1:14]].
* **A Feature of Heavenly Beings:** The term is explicitly linked to the "living creatures" `{{H2416}}`, making this incredible swiftness a defining characteristic of beings who operate in God's immediate presence.
* **Visual Element of God's Glory:** The "appearance" `{{H4758}}` of a **flash of lightning** is a key sensory detail in the vision, contributing to an overwhelming picture of God's majesty, energy, and unapproachable glory.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H965}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is inseparable from its singular context. While used only once, **bâzâq** provides one of Scripture's most potent images for divine speed and power. Its placement within Ezekiel's vision transforms it from a simple meteorological term into a descriptor for the very nature of heavenly movement, demonstrating how a single word can lend immense force and imagery to the portrayal of God's glory.
TRV