### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb δειλιάω (deiliáō, `{{G1168}}`) is derived from the noun δειλία (deilia, `{{G1167}}`), which signifies timidity, cowardice, or fearfulness. As a verb, δειλιάω therefore means "to be timid," "to be fearful," or "to shrink back in fear." It describes a settled disposition or state of mind characterized by a lack of courage or a tendency towards apprehension, rather than a mere momentary fright. While it shares semantic space with general terms for fear like φοβέω (phobeō, `{{G5399}}`), δειλιάω carries a more specific and often negative connotation of lacking the necessary resolve or boldness in the face of perceived danger or uncertainty. It implies an internal state of apprehension that can hinder action or trust.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb δειλιάω (`{{G1168}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, yet its single occurrence is profoundly significant:
* **[[John 14:27]]**: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them δειλιάτω." (The Greek reads: μή ταρασσέσθω ὑμῶν ἡ καρδία μηδὲ δειλιάτω - "Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be timid/fearful.")
This verse is part of Jesus' farewell discourse to His disciples, delivered shortly before His crucifixion. The disciples are clearly distressed and uncertain about the future, grappling with the impending departure of their Lord. Jesus offers them His unique "peace," a peace distinct from worldly peace, which is often dependent on external circumstances. The command "Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them δειλιάτω" directly addresses their internal state of anxiety and the potential for a spirit of timidity to take root. The pairing with ταράσσω (tarassō, `{{G5015}}`, "to trouble" or "agitate") emphasizes the deep internal turmoil that Jesus seeks to alleviate. He calls them away from a disposition of fearfulness, inviting them to embrace the divine peace that transcends their immediate circumstances and future uncertainties. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but an inner tranquility rooted in trust in Christ's presence and provision.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding δειλιάω (`{{G1168}}`) is enhanced by examining its lexical family and related concepts:
* **δειλία (deilia, `{{G1167}}`)**: The noun form, meaning "timidity" or "cowardice." This is notably used in [[2 Timothy 1:7]]: "For God has not given us a spirit of δειλίας (timidity), but of power and love and self-control." This verse highlights that timidity is *not* from God but is a characteristic the believer is called to resist, being empowered instead by the Holy Spirit.
* **δειλός (deilos, `{{G1169}}`)**: The adjective form, meaning "timid," "cowardly," or "fainthearted." This term carries a strong negative connotation, particularly in [[Revelation 21:8]], where "the cowardly" (οἱ δειλοὶ) are listed among those who will have their part in the lake of fire, indicating a profound spiritual failure.
* **φοβέω (phobeō, `{{G5399}}`)**: A more general verb for "to fear" or "to be afraid." While it can denote negative fear, it also encompasses reverential awe (e.g., "fear of the Lord"). δειλιάω is more specific to a debilitating, unmanly fear or timidity.
* **ταράσσω (tarassō, `{{G5015}}`)**: "To trouble," "agitate," or "stir up." As seen in [[John 14:27]], it is often paired with δειλιάω, indicating the internal disquiet that leads to or accompanies timidity.
* **Antithetical Concepts**: The opposite of δειλιάω would be courage, boldness, or confidence. Words like θαρσέω (tharseō, `{{G2293}}`, "to take courage," "to be confident") or παρρησία (parrēsia, `{{G3954}}`, "boldness," "courage," "freedom of speech") represent the positive attributes that believers are called to cultivate in contrast to timidity.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of δειλιάω (`{{G1168}}`) in [[John 14:27]] carries profound theological weight. Jesus' command not to be timid is a divine imperative against a disposition that can undermine faith and obedience. It highlights that the peace Christ offers is not merely an external cessation of conflict but an internal, spiritual tranquility that empowers believers to face trials without succumbing to debilitating fear. This peace is a gift from God, enabling courage and steadfastness.
Furthermore, when viewed alongside [[2 Timothy 1:7]] (God has not given us a spirit of δειλία - `{{G1167}}`), it becomes clear that timidity is considered contrary to the nature and will of God for His people. Believers are called to embody a spirit of power, love, and self-control, which inherently stands in opposition to δειλιάω. This suggests that succumbing to timidity is not merely an emotional weakness but a spiritual failing that can hinder one's walk with God and effectiveness in His service. The New Testament consistently encourages believers to overcome fear through faith, relying on the indwelling Holy Spirit and the promises of God.
### Summary
The Greek verb δειλιάω (`{{G1168}}`) precisely denotes the state of being timid or fearful, characterized by a lack of courage. Though it appears only once in the New Testament, its occurrence in [[John 14:27]] is exceptionally significant. Here, Jesus directly commands His disciples not to succumb to this disposition, offering His unique peace as the divine antidote to their inner turmoil and apprehension. This peace is distinct from worldly peace and empowers believers to face future uncertainties without shrinking back in fear. When considered alongside its related noun δειλία (`{{G1167}}`) in [[2 Timothy 1:7]], the term underscores that timidity is not a characteristic imparted by God but is a spiritual hindrance to be overcome by the power, love, and self-control given through the Holy Spirit. Thus, δειλιάω serves as a potent reminder of the spiritual battle against fear and the divine provision of peace and courage available to those who trust in Christ.
TRV