חֵ֫צִי (chits.tsi)
chits.tsi
arrow
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun chitsi refers to an arrow, a weapon defined by its speed and lethal precision. In the Hebrew Bible, it appears only three times, concentrated in the narratives of 1 Samuel and 2 Kings. This rarity gives the word significant weight whenever it is used, often serving as a concrete image for sudden judgment or divine intervention.
While the lexicons provide the basic definition of "arrow," its biblical usage carries a distinct theological tone. It is not merely a piece of military equipment but a symbol of God’s active power to strike down enemies or execute justice. The word appears in contexts where conflict is decisive, reinforcing the idea that outcomes are determined by forces beyond human control.
Translators typically render chitsi simply as "arrow," preserving the directness of the original text. This straightforward translation allows readers to focus on the imagery of swift action and inevitable impact. The word’s limited occurrence ensures that when it appears, it marks a moment of high stakes and finality in the biblical narrative.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we read about an arrow in Scripture, we are reminded of how quickly events can shift. In ancient battles, an arrow flew with speed and precision, leaving little time for reaction. This image helps us understand that some moments in life arrive suddenly, catching us off guard. It is a reminder that our plans often intersect with forces beyond our control.
For your faith, this word invites trust in God’s sovereignty. Just as an arrow finds its mark regardless of the archer's visible effort, we can believe that God’s purposes are carried out with certainty. When uncertainty clouds your path, remember that the same power that guides a projectile also guides your days. You do not need to control every outcome to feel secure.
Instead of worrying about what lies ahead, focus on walking faithfully in the present. The brevity of an arrow’s flight highlights the importance of how we live now. May you find peace knowing that even sudden changes are held within a larger, purposeful design.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ arrow3×
- [is] the/ arrow1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הַ/חֵ֖צִי3×
- הַ/חֵ֔צִי1×
Key Verses
-
I Samuel 20:36
He said to his boy, “Run, find now the arrows which I shoot.” As the boy ran, he shot an arrow beyond him.
This verse establishes the arrow as a coded signal in a life-or-death situation, showing how God uses ordinary objects to protect His people.
-
II Kings 9:24
Jehu drew his bow with his full strength, and struck Joram between his arms; and the arrow went out at his heart, and he sunk down in his chariot.
Here the arrow executes divine judgment with lethal precision, striking King Joram exactly where intended despite his attempt to flee.