from ἐκ and πλήσσω; to strike with astonishment:--amaze, astonish.
Transliteration:ekplḗssō
Pronunciation:ek-place'-so
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ekplḗssō (`{{G1605}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition ek (meaning "out of" or "from") and the verb plḗssō (meaning "to strike" or "to smite"). Etymologically, it conveys the sense of "to strike out" or "to strike completely." In its metaphorical usage, ekplḗssō describes an overwhelming impact on the mind or emotions, leading to a profound state of astonishment, amazement, or even bewilderment. It signifies a reaction that goes beyond mere surprise, suggesting an experience so extraordinary or unexpected that it deeply affects the one perceiving it, often leaving them speechless or dumbfounded. The "out of" component implies that the individual is "struck out of" their normal state of mind, overwhelmed by what they have witnessed or heard.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ekplḗssō (`{{G1605}}`) appears predominantly in the Gospels, consistently describing the profound reaction of individuals or crowds to the teaching and actions of Jesus. It is a powerful descriptor of awe in the face of divine authority and wisdom.
* **Reaction to Jesus' Teaching:** The most frequent use of ekplḗssō is in response to Jesus' teaching, often highlighting its unique authority compared to the scribes.
* In [[Matthew 7:28]], following the Sermon on the Mount, "the crowds were astonished at His teaching." This astonishment stemmed from the inherent authority with which Jesus spoke, not merely as an interpreter of the Law, but as one who spoke with divine prerogative.
* Similarly, [[Mark 1:22]] and [[Luke 4:32]] state that the people "were amazed at His teaching, for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as the scribes."
* [[Mark 11:18]] notes that the crowds "were amazed at His teaching," contributing to the chief priests and scribes seeking to destroy Him.
* **Reaction to Jesus' Wisdom and Miracles:** ekplḗssō also describes astonishment at the comprehensive nature of Jesus' ministry, encompassing both His wisdom and His miraculous power.
* In [[Matthew 13:54]] and [[Mark 6:2]], people in Jesus' hometown were astonished by "His wisdom and His miracles," leading them to question His origin.
* **Reaction to Difficult Truths:** The disciples themselves were "exceedingly astonished" (a stronger form of ekplḗssō with an intensifier) when Jesus spoke about the difficulty of the rich entering the kingdom of God ([[Matthew 19:25]], [[Mark 10:26]]). This indicates a profound disruption of their conventional understanding.
* **Reaction to Jesus' Insight and Divine Manifestation:**
* [[Matthew 22:33]] records the crowds being "astonished at His teaching" after Jesus silenced the Sadducees with His wisdom concerning the resurrection.
* [[Luke 2:48]] describes Mary and Joseph being "astonished" when they found the twelve-year-old Jesus in the temple, listening to and questioning the teachers. Their astonishment was at His precocious wisdom and understanding.
* [[Luke 9:43]] states that "they were all amazed at the greatness of God" following the healing of the demon-possessed boy, connecting the astonishment directly to a manifestation of divine power.
* **Reaction to Apostolic Teaching:** The term is also used once in Acts, when Sergius Paulus, the proconsul, "was amazed at the teaching about the Lord" after witnessing Paul's power and proclamation ([[Acts 13:12]]).
Across these contexts, ekplḗssō consistently denotes a profound, often overwhelming, reaction to something extraordinary, divine, or beyond human expectation. It is a response to the powerful manifestation of God's presence and activity through Jesus.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of ekplḗssō (`{{G1605}}`) overlaps with several other Greek words related to wonder and awe, yet it maintains a distinct intensity.
* **θαυμάζω (thaumazō - `{{G2296}}`):** This is a more general term for "to wonder," "to marvel," or "to be amazed." While it can describe a strong sense of wonder, it often lacks the forceful, "struck out of oneself" impact implied by ekplḗssō. ekplḗssō suggests a deeper, more overwhelming astonishment that can leave one speechless, whereas thaumazō might simply denote admiration or curiosity.
* **ἔκστασις (ekstasis - `{{G1611}}`):** Meaning "ecstasy" or "trance," ekstasis describes a state of being "beside oneself" due to overwhelming emotion, whether fear, amazement, or wonder. It represents the *resultant state* of being ekplḗssō, a complete mental or emotional displacement.
* **φοβέω (phobeō - `{{G5399}}`):** While primarily meaning "to fear," phobeō can also denote reverential awe or dread in the presence of the divine. Astonishment can sometimes be accompanied by fear, especially when confronted with overwhelming power or holiness.
ekplḗssō stands out for its emphasis on the *impact* of the event or teaching—a sudden, forceful, and profound mental or emotional jolt that shifts one's perception.
### Theological Significance
The consistent use of ekplḗssō (`{{G1605}}`) in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels, carries significant theological weight.
1. **Attestation of Jesus' Divine Authority:** The astonishment of the crowds and even the disciples serves as a powerful testament to Jesus' unique authority and divine nature. His teaching was not merely insightful or persuasive; it was imbued with an inherent power that transcended human wisdom. This reaction validates His claim to be more than a prophet or a teacher—He was the very embodiment of divine wisdom and power.
2. **Manifestation of the Kingdom of God:** The astonishment is a natural human response to the inbreaking of God's kingdom into the world through Jesus. The miracles and authoritative teaching were not mere spectacles but signs of God's active presence, challenging established norms and revealing a new reality.
3. **Proper Human Response to Divine Revelation:** The reaction of astonishment suggests a fitting human response to the overwhelming truth and power of God. It implies a recognition of something utterly beyond human comprehension or control, leading to awe, humility, and often, a re-evaluation of one's understanding. It can be a precursor to faith, though not always (as seen in the hometown of Nazareth, where astonishment did not lead to widespread belief).
4. **Disruption of Expectations:** The astonishment often arises because Jesus' words and deeds defy conventional expectations and categories. He speaks with an authority unlike the scribes, performs deeds beyond human capability, and presents truths that challenge deeply held assumptions (e.g., about wealth and salvation). This disruption highlights the radical nature of the Gospel message.
### Summary
The Greek word ekplḗssō (`{{G1605}}`) signifies a profound, overwhelming astonishment or amazement, literally meaning "to strike out" or "to strike completely." In the New Testament, it is predominantly used in the Gospels to describe the intense reaction of individuals and crowds to the authoritative teaching and miraculous deeds of Jesus. This astonishment underscores Jesus' unique divine authority, the transformative power of His message, and the inbreaking of God's kingdom. It represents a fitting human response to the unexpected and overwhelming manifestation of divine wisdom and power, often challenging preconceived notions and inviting a deeper engagement with the truth of God.
TRV