חִצִּי

an arrow

Definition

חִצִּי refers to an arrow, a projectile shot from a bow. In its four biblical occurrences, it consistently denotes a literal arrow used in hunting or warfare, as seen when Jonathan shoots arrows as a signal to David (1 Samuel 20:36-38). The word is a poetic or extended form of the more common noun חֵץ (H2671), also meaning 'arrow,' and carries no distinct metaphorical meaning in its specific usage. All instances describe a physical arrow in a narrative context.

Biblical Usage

This word appears exclusively in narrative passages describing specific events. It is used four times in the entire Old Testament: three times in the detailed account of Jonathan signaling David with arrows in 1 Samuel 20:36-38, and once when Jehu draws his bow and shoots King Joram in 2 Kings 9:24. Its usage is strictly literal and confined to scenes of communication or violent conflict.

Etymology

The word חִצִּי is a prolonged or perhaps poetic form derived from the common Hebrew noun חֵץ (H2671), which means 'arrow.' It shares the same root, which is likely related to the concept of piercing or striking. The extended form does not change the core meaning but may have been used for rhythmic or stylistic variation in speech.

Semantic Range

In ancient Israel, the arrow was a standard weapon of war and hunting, and its use for signaling, as in 1 Samuel 20, demonstrates a practical application of military equipment in covert communication. Understanding it as a physical projectile, often fletched and tipped with metal or stone, grounds the biblical narratives in the tangible reality of Iron Age warfare and daily life.

חֵץ (chets, H2671) — The standard, more frequently used word for 'arrow,' with no meaningful difference in sense.

Word Details

Scripture References