### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bᵉchurôwth**, represented by `{{H979}}`, refers to the period of **youth**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**. Derived from the word for a young man, `{{H979}}` is used collectively and abstractly to signify this formative stage of life, as well as a group of young men.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H979}}` frames youth as a critical time of decision and service. In Numbers, Joshua is identified as one of Moses' **young men** [[Numbers 11:28]], illustrating that youth is a time for serving God's appointed leaders. The book of Ecclesiastes presents two sides of this life stage. A young man is told to rejoice and let his heart cheer him in the days of his **youth** [[Ecclesiastes 11:9]], but with the stark reminder that God will bring him into judgment for his actions. This leads to the direct instruction to remember one's Creator in the days of **youth**, before the difficult years of old age arrive [[Ecclesiastes 12:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of youth and its responsibilities:
* `{{H970}}` **bâchûwr** (young man): This is the root word for `{{H979}}` and refers to a selected youth. It is used in [[Ecclesiastes 11:9]] to directly address the person in his youth.
* `{{H3208}}` **yaldûwth** (childhood, youth): This term also appears in [[Ecclesiastes 11:9]], used alongside `{{H979}}` to describe the early, formative period of a person's life.
* `{{H2142}}` **zâkar** (to remember): This is the key action demanded of the young in [[Ecclesiastes 12:1]]. It means not just to recall, but to be mindful of and mark God as central to one's life.
* `{{H8334}}` **shârath** (to serve): This word defines the role of Joshua and the other "young men" who were servants of Moses, connecting youth with active ministry [[Numbers 11:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H979}}` is centered on the unique opportunities and accountability of youth.
* **A Time of Foundational Choice:** Youth is portrayed as a pivotal season. One can follow the ways of the heart, but this path leads to divine judgment [[Ecclesiastes 11:9]]. The alternative is to build a life founded on remembering the Creator [[Ecclesiastes 12:1]].
* **Devotion Before Hardship:** The call to remember God during one's youth is specifically contrasted with the "evil days" of old age when one might say "I have no pleasure in them" [[Ecclesiastes 12:1]]. This emphasizes youth as the ideal time to establish a relationship with God.
* **Youthful Service:** The example of Joshua as one of Moses' "young men" [[Numbers 11:28]] establishes a paradigm of discipleship and service as a proper expression of one's youth.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H979}}` is a focused term that defines youth not merely by age, but by its spiritual potential and responsibility. Though used infrequently, it powerfully depicts this life stage as a critical juncture for choosing between self-directed pleasure and foundational devotion to God. It highlights a period for both joyful living and sober accountability, as well as for dedicated service.
TRV