The Greek word éntromos, represented by G1790, describes a state of being terrified. Derived from ἐν and τρόμος, it denotes a physical and emotional response of trembling or quaking in fear. It is a specific and intense term, appearing only 3 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible.
The use of G1790 consistently illustrates a human reaction to an overwhelming manifestation of divine presence or power. In Acts, when God speaks to Moses from the burning bush, declaring Himself the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Moses trembled and was too afraid to look Acts 7:32. The book of Hebrews recounts this same event, stating the sight was so terrible G5398 that Moses himself said he was exceedingly afraid and began to quake Hebrews 12:21. The word is also used to describe the Philippian jailer who, after witnessing a miracle, came trembling G1790 and fell down before Paul and Silas Acts 16:29.
Several related words help to frame the context of being terrified:
- G1630 ékphobos (exceedingly fear): Used alongside G1790 in Hebrews 12:21, this word intensifies the description of Moses' state as being "frightened out of one's wits."
- G5398 phoberós (terrible): This describes the formidable nature of the sight G5324 that caused Moses to quake G1790, highlighting that the fear was a response to an awesome spectacle Hebrews 12:21.
- G5111 tolmáō (to venture): In the account of the burning bush, Moses trembled G1790 and durst not G5111 behold, showing that the fear was so profound it prevented him from acting Acts 7:32.
- G4363 prospíptō (to fall down before): The jailer's trembling was accompanied by the act of falling down before Paul and Silas, a physical posture of submission and supplication prompted by his terror Acts 16:29.
The theological significance of G1790 is tied to the proper response to God's holiness and power.
- Reverential Awe: The word captures the appropriate reaction of a mortal in the presence of the divine. The experiences of Moses show that even a great prophet is struck with terror before the majesty of God (Acts 7:32, Hebrews 12:21).
- Response to Divine Intervention: The jailer's trembling demonstrates the fear that follows a direct and undeniable act of God. It signifies the recognition of a power far beyond human understanding Acts 16:29.
- A Catalyst for Submission: In each case, the state of being éntromos precedes a moment of submission or inquiry. Moses' encounter is foundational to his calling, while the jailer's fear leads him to prostrate himself before God's messengers.
In summary, G1790 is more than just a word for fear; it describes a profound, physical trembling in response to the terrifying reality of God's presence and power. Though used rarely, its appearances in scripture are pivotal, marking moments when humanity is confronted with the awesome and formidable nature of the divine, leading to a state of reverent submission.
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