The Greek word diatarássō, represented by G1298, means to disturb wholly or agitate (with alarm). This term is translated as trouble in the scriptures. It is a very specific term, appearing only 1 times in 1 unique verses. Its meaning is derived from its component parts, διά and ταράσσω, suggesting a complete or thorough disturbance.
The sole biblical use of G1298 occurs in the narrative of the angelic annunciation to Mary. When the angel appeared to her, the scripture states, "when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying" Luke 1:29. This disturbance was not just a passing feeling, but a deep agitation caused by the angel's words. The verse immediately follows this by stating she "cast in her mind" or reasoned about the meaning of the greeting, showing that the state of being troubled prompted deep reflection and questioning.
Several related words in the immediate context of Luke 1:29 help to clarify the meaning of G1298:
- G1492 eídō (to see, know): Mary's state of being troubled was initiated when she saw the angel. This word links the physical act of seeing with the profound internal reaction that followed Luke 1:29.
- G3056 lógos (saying, word, thing): The direct cause of her being troubled was the angel's saying. This highlights that the disturbance was a response to a specific message or communication Luke 1:29. It is the same word used to refer to the divine Word John 1:1.
- G1260 dialogízomai (cast in mind, reason, think): In response to being troubled, Mary immediately began to cast in her mind or reason about the salutation. This word describes the mental process of deliberation that follows the initial emotional disturbance Luke 1:29.
- G1161 dé (and, but): This primary particle is used to connect the sequence of events in the narrative, often translated as and or but, linking Mary's perception to her reaction Luke 1:29.
The theological weight of G1298 is concentrated in its single appearance, offering a specific insight into the nature of divine encounters.
- The Human Reaction to Divine Revelation: The use of G1298 to describe Mary's state shows that encountering a direct, heavenly message can be profoundly unsettling. Her being "troubled" signifies a complete disturbance of her composure in the face of the supernatural.
- A Catalyst for Understanding: This state of agitation was not an endpoint but a starting point. It immediately prompted Mary to "cast in her mind" G1260 what the angel's salutation meant. This illustrates that a holy disturbance can be a necessary precursor to deeper spiritual reasoning and understanding.
- The Impact of the Divine Word: The fact that Mary was troubled "at his saying" G3056 places immense significance on the power of God's spoken word. It shows that a divine lógos has the inherent ability to agitate the soul and initiate a transformative process of thought and faith.
In summary, G1298 diatarássō is a highly specific term for being wholly disturbed or agitated with alarm. Its single use in scripture is powerful, capturing Mary's profound internal reaction to the angel's message Luke 1:29. It is not merely about fear, but about a deep-seated disturbance that comes from a divine encounter. The word illustrates a key spiritual dynamic: a heavenly word (lógos) can cause a person to be troubled, which in turn prompts deep reasoning (dialogízomai) on the path to understanding and faith.
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