The main words in this phrase are based on the root ayn-zayin-bet (ע'ז'ב') meaning to leave (Genesis 39:12). The word "yamim" is the plural of "yom" meaning day. This hauntingly beautiful phrase can be found in the Jerusalem Talmud (Brachot 14; 4). Rabbi Shimon ben Lakish (Resh Lakish), when quoting a reference known as Megillat Chasidim states, "If you leave something and move away from it don’t expect it to wait for you or be there when you return. For the journey will take place from both sides and the return will be doubly difficult." Bottom line, if you don’t take advantage of your time, it will slip away quickly.

The phrase is slighter altered in Meir Ariel's song "Neshel Hanachash" (Snake Skin). Hear at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JflYCK77P3I

Back to this week's lesson