The term "fleet-footed" is often used to describe someone who is swift or agile in movement. In the context of the Bible, this characteristic is frequently associated with warriors, messengers, or animals that possess remarkable speed and agility. The imagery of being fleet-footed is used to convey readiness, swiftness in action, and the ability to respond quickly to situations, often in the service of God's purposes.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Samuel 2:18 : "The three sons of Zeruiah were there: Joab, Abishai, and Asahel. And Asahel was as fleet-footed as a wild gazelle." Asahel, the brother of Joab, is described as being exceptionally swift, likened to a wild gazelle. This comparison highlights his agility and speed, qualities that were highly valued in the context of ancient warfare.

2. Habakkuk 1:8 : "Their horses are swifter than leopards, fiercer than wolves at dusk. Their horsemen charge ahead; their cavalry comes from afar. They fly like an eagle swooping to devour." In this passage, the prophet Habakkuk describes the Chaldean army's horses as being swifter than leopards, emphasizing their speed and the impending threat they pose. The imagery of fleet-footedness here underscores the urgency and power of the approaching force.

3. Psalm 18:33 : "He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; He enables me to stand on the heights." In this psalm, David praises God for granting him the agility and sure-footedness of a deer, allowing him to navigate difficult terrain and rise above challenges. The metaphor of fleet-footedness is used to express divine empowerment and protection.

4. Isaiah 5:26 : "He lifts a banner for the distant nations and whistles for those at the ends of the earth. Behold—how speedily and swiftly they come!" Here, Isaiah speaks of God's ability to summon nations with ease, and their rapid response is likened to fleet-footedness. This passage illustrates the concept of divine orchestration and the readiness of nations to fulfill God's will.

Theological Implications:

The concept of being fleet-footed in the Bible often carries a deeper spiritual significance. It symbolizes readiness and willingness to act in accordance with God's commands. Just as a fleet-footed warrior or messenger is prepared to move swiftly, believers are called to be spiritually agile, ready to respond to God's call and to act with urgency in the service of His kingdom.

In the New Testament, while the specific term "fleet-footed" is not used, the idea of spiritual readiness and swiftness is echoed in passages that encourage believers to be vigilant and prepared for the return of Christ (e.g., Matthew 24:44, 1 Thessalonians 5:6). The fleet-footedness of biblical figures serves as a metaphor for the Christian life, where believers are encouraged to be quick to obey, swift in service, and agile in faith.

Wherefore if they Pretend to Foretell the Future...
... these things. This in good truth a fleet-footed boy could do, getting far
ahead of one less swift. But what I mean is this. If any ...
/.../athanasius/select works and letters or athanasius/life of antony section 31.htm

The Shepherd of Pella
... the west, the search continued. Momus did not overtake the fleet-footed party
that preceded him. Stragglers that lost interest dropped ...
/.../miller/the city of delight/chapter iii the shepherd of.htm

Finger-Posts
... It is addressed to Peter, but it is meant, too, for those who were so fleet-footed
a few nights before. All this was the answer to their perplexity. ...
/.../gordon/quiet talks on following the christ/finger-posts.htm

Fleet-footed (2 Occurrences)
Fleet-footed. Fleet, Fleet-footed. Fleeth . Multi-Version Concordance
Fleet-footed (2 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 2:18 The ...
/f/fleet-footed.htm - 6k

Fleet (7 Occurrences)

/f/fleet.htm - 9k

Fleeth (54 Occurrences)

/f/fleeth.htm - 22k

Gibeon (39 Occurrences)
... A "sore battle" ensued in which Abner was beaten; he was pursued by the fleet-footed
Asahel, brother of Joab, whom he slew. See HELKATH-HAZZURIM. ...
/g/gibeon.htm - 31k

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