### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **deiliáō**, represented by `{{G1168}}`, means **to be timid** or **be afraid**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its single usage carries significant weight, appearing as a direct command from Jesus.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1168}}` is in [[John 14:27]], where Jesus tells his disciples, "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it **be afraid**." Here, the command to not **be afraid** is presented as the proper response to receiving Christ's unique peace `{{G1515}}`. It is paired directly with the instruction for the heart `{{G2588}}` not to be troubled `{{G5015}}`, framing fear as an internal state that is contrary to the gift being offered.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context of [[John 14:27]] help clarify the meaning of being timid or afraid:
* `{{G1515}}` **eirḗnē** (peace): Defined as "peace (literally or figuratively); by implication, prosperity," this is the divine provision that makes freedom from fear possible. Jesus gives His **peace** as the reason not to be afraid [[John 14:27]].
* `{{G5015}}` **tarássō** (trouble): Meaning "to stir or agitate," this word describes the inner turmoil that Christ's peace is meant to counteract. It is used in the parallel command, "Let not your heart be **troubled**" [[John 14:27]].
* `{{G2588}}` **kardía** (heart): This refers to "the thoughts or feelings (mind)" and is the focal point of the command. It is the **heart** that must not be troubled or afraid [[John 14:27]].
* `{{G2889}}` **kósmos** (world): The peace given by Jesus is explicitly contrasted with the kind of peace offered by the **world**, highlighting its supernatural and distinct origin [[John 14:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1168}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use.
* **A Divine Command:** The instruction "neither let it be afraid" is not merely advice but a command rooted in Christ's authority and provision. It frames timidity as a condition to be actively resisted by the believer.
* **The Antidote to Fear:** The context in [[John 14:27]] establishes that the antidote to being afraid `{{G1168}}` is the peace `{{G1515}}` given by Christ. This peace is not dependent on worldly circumstances, which is why it can overcome the fear that those circumstances often produce.
* **The Inner State:** Paired with being "troubled" `{{G5015}}`, the term `{{G1168}}` points to an internal state of agitation and timidity in the heart `{{G2588}}`. The command is a call to guard one's inner being from fear by embracing the peace of God, which can keep hearts and minds [[Philippians 4:7]].
### Summary
In summary, while **deiliáō** `{{G1168}}` is used only once, its placement in scripture is profound. It defines a state of being timid that is incompatible with the peace `{{G1515}}` Jesus gives His followers. The command in [[John 14:27]] sets up a clear contrast: the believer's heart `{{G2588}}` can either be troubled `{{G5015}}` and afraid `{{G1168}}` by the world `{{G2889}}`, or it can rest in the supernatural peace provided by Christ Himself.
TRV