The Greek word ekplḗssō, represented by G1605, means to strike with astonishment. It is derived from ἐκ and πλήσσω and is translated as "amaze" or "astonish." It appears 14 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible, capturing a profound reaction to divine words and deeds.
The use of G1605 is almost exclusively tied to the response of people hearing the teachings of Jesus or witnessing His power. The crowds were astonished at His doctrine because He taught as one having authority, not as the scribes Mark 1:22, and His word was with power Luke 4:32. This astonishment was not limited to the general populace; even those in His own country were astonished, questioning the source of His wisdom and mighty works (Matthew 13:54, Mark 6:2). The reaction often intensified with the scale of the miracle, such as when He healed a deaf and mute man, leaving the people "beyond measure astonished" Mark 7:37. The disciples themselves were "exceedingly amazed" by His teachings on salvation Matthew 19:25.
Several related words help frame the context in which this astonishment occurs:
- G1322 didachḗ (instruction, doctrine): This is frequently the cause of the astonishment. The crowds were repeatedly astonished at Jesus's doctrine (Matthew 7:28, Mark 11:18). The early believers continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine Acts 2:42.
- G1849 exousía (authority, power): This describes the quality of Jesus's teaching that set it apart and caused amazement. He taught as one that had authority Mark 1:22, and His word was with power Luke 4:32. Believers are given power to become the sons of God John 1:12.
- G1321 didáskō (to teach): This is the action that prompts the astonishment. Jesus began to teach in the synagogue, and many hearing him were astonished Mark 6:2. The Great Commission includes teaching all nations to observe what Christ commanded Matthew 28:20.
- G191 akoúō (to hear): The astonishment is a direct result of what is heard. When the multitude heard Jesus, they were astonished at his doctrine Matthew 22:33. Believers are called to be swift to hear James 1:19.
The theological weight of G1605 is significant, marking key moments of divine revelation.
- Revelation of Divine Authority: The astonishment of the people highlights a recognition, even if incomplete, of a unique authority present in Jesus. His teaching wasn't just another interpretation; it carried the power G1849 of God Himself Luke 4:32, setting Him apart from all other religious figures Mark 1:22.
- Catalyst for Faith: This astonishment can be a precursor to belief. After seeing a mighty work, the deputy was astonished at the doctrine of the Lord and subsequently believed G4100 Acts 13:12. The amazement caused by Jesus's works and words served as a powerful testimony.
- Confronting Human Limitations: The disciples' astonishment at Jesus's teaching on salvation shows how His words challenged their fundamental understanding of the world (Matthew 19:25, Mark 10:26). The reaction underscores the counter-intuitive and radical nature of the Gospel.
In summary, G1605 is more than simple surprise; it describes the overwhelming sense of awe experienced when confronted with the person and power of Jesus Christ. It consistently appears in response to His doctrine G1322 and mighty works, underscoring the divine authority G1849 with which He spoke and acted. This powerful reaction serves as a biblical marker for the moment when humanity directly encounters the profound and life-altering reality of God in the flesh.
TRV