Topical Encyclopedia The term "hastened" in the Bible often refers to the act of moving quickly or with urgency, typically in response to a divine command, a pressing situation, or a significant event. This concept is woven throughout Scripture, illustrating both human and divine actions that require immediate attention or swift execution.Old Testament Usage In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "hastened" is מָהַר (mahar), which conveys the idea of making haste or acting quickly. One notable instance is found in Genesis 18:6, where Abraham hastens to prepare a meal for his divine visitors: "So Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah and said, 'Quick, prepare three seahs of fine flour, knead it, and bake some bread.'" This passage highlights the urgency and hospitality that Abraham demonstrates in response to the presence of the Lord. Another significant occurrence is in 1 Samuel 17:48, where David hastens toward Goliath: "As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him." Here, David's hastening is an expression of his faith and courage, trusting in God's deliverance. New Testament Usage In the New Testament, the Greek word σπεύδω (speudō) is used to convey the idea of hastening. In Luke 19:5-6, Jesus calls Zacchaeus to come down from the sycamore tree: "When Jesus came to that place, He looked up and said, 'Zacchaeus, hurry down, for I must stay at your house today.' So Zacchaeus hurried down and welcomed Him joyfully." Zacchaeus's haste reflects his eagerness to respond to Jesus' call and his openness to transformation. Theological Implications The concept of hastening in the Bible often underscores the importance of responding promptly to God's commands and the opportunities He presents. It reflects a heart that is willing and ready to act in faith and obedience. In the prophetic literature, hastening can also relate to the fulfillment of God's promises and the coming of His kingdom. For instance, in Isaiah 60:22, it is written, "The least of you will become a thousand, the smallest a mighty nation. I am the LORD; in its time I will do this swiftly." Practical Application For believers, the idea of hastening serves as a reminder to be vigilant and responsive to God's leading. It encourages a lifestyle of readiness and attentiveness to the Holy Spirit's promptings. In a broader sense, it calls Christians to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing the urgency of sharing the Gospel and advancing God's kingdom on earth. In summary, the biblical concept of hastening is rich with meaning, illustrating both the immediacy of human response to divine intervention and the swift fulfillment of God's purposes. It challenges believers to live with a sense of urgency and readiness in their walk with the Lord. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Hasten.Strong's Hebrew 1765. dachaph -- to drive, hasten... Word Origin a prim. root Definition to drive, hasten NASB Word Usage hastened (1), hurried (1), impelled (2). be hastened, pressed on. ... /hebrew/1765.htm - 6k 926. bahal -- to disturb, terrify 2363a. chush -- to hasten, make haste 4116. mahar -- to hasten 3135. Yoash -- "the LORD has aided," two Israelites Library That Upon the Conquest and Slaughter of vitellius Vespasian ... 1 Corinthians xiii. 11 His Eighth Error. (See Above in Book ii. 13 [ix. ]. ) And While they Marvelled at That, Behold, Two Men Standing Above ... Jesus' Last Journey to Jerusalem. At Dilligen Praise of the Ephesians. Lot's Flight from Sodom. And when the Ten Heard, they were Moved with Anger against James ... Means Employed by the Enemies of Jesus for Carrying Out their ... Thesaurus Levy (19 Occurrences)... And king Rehoboam hastened to mount his chariot, to flee to Jerusalem. (DBY JPS). ... And king Rehoboam hastened to mount his chariot, to flee to Jerusalem. ... /l/levy.htm - 13k Posts (68 Occurrences) Great (10383 Occurrences) Hastened (48 Occurrences) Hasten (49 Occurrences) Cross (157 Occurrences) Zab'bai (2 Occurrences) Zacchaeus (3 Occurrences) Zacchae'us (3 Occurrences) Zealot (4 Occurrences) Resources Why is a day measured from evening to morning in Genesis 1? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Pliny the Younger? | GotQuestions.org What were the Lateran Councils? | GotQuestions.org Hastened: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hastened (48 Occurrences)Matthew 15:30 Luke 19:5 Luke 19:6 Acts 20:16 Hebrews 6:18 Genesis 18:6 Genesis 18:7 Genesis 19:15 Genesis 24:18 Genesis 24:20 Genesis 44:11 Exodus 2:18 Exodus 5:13 Joshua 4:10 Joshua 8:14 Joshua 8:19 Judges 20:37 1 Samuel 4:14 1 Samuel 17:48 1 Samuel 23:26 1 Samuel 25:42 1 Kings 12:18 1 Kings 20:33 1 Kings 20:41 2 Kings 9:13 2 Chronicles 10:18 2 Chronicles 24:5 2 Chronicles 26:20 Nehemiah 3:20 Esther 3:15 Esther 6:12 Esther 6:14 Esther 8:14 Job 5:13 Job 31:5 Psalms 16:4 Psalms 48:5 Psalms 119:60 Proverbs 7:23 Proverbs 13:24 Isaiah 32:4 Isaiah 35:4 Isaiah 49:17 Isaiah 51:14 Jeremiah 17:16 Jeremiah 48:16 Hosea 3:5 Zephaniah 1:18 Subtopics Related Terms |