from ἐκ and ἵστημι; to put (stand) out of wits, i.e. astound, or (reflexively) become astounded, insane:--amaze, be (make) astonished, be beside self (selves), bewitch, wonder.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **exístēmi**, represented by `{{G1839}}`, describes a state of being put out of one's normal state of mind. It appears **21 times** across **17 unique verses** in the Bible. Its base definition includes to astound, become astounded, or even insane, and is translated in various ways, such as to **amaze**, **be astonished**, **be beside self**, and to **bewitch**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G1839}}` often captures the human reaction to supernatural events. Following a miraculous healing, the people were all **amazed** and glorified God [[Mark 2:12]]. Similarly, when Jesus calmed the wind, his disciples were sore **amazed** [[Mark 6:51]]. The word is also used to describe astonishment at unexpected human behavior, such as when those in Jerusalem heard Saul preaching the name he once destroyed [[Acts 9:21]]. In another context, it describes a state of being mentally displaced; Jesus's friends believed He was **beside himself** [[Mark 3:21]], and Paul used the same term to describe his intense focus on God [[2 Corinthians 5:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of `{{G1839}}`:
* `{{G1611}}` **ékstasis** (a displacement of the mind, i.e. bewilderment, "ecstasy"): Derived from `{{G1839}}`, this noun form intensifies the meaning. After a girl was raised from the dead, those who saw it were **astonished** with a great **astonishment** [[Mark 5:42]].
* `{{G2296}}` **thaumázō** (to wonder; by implication, to admire): This word often appears alongside `{{G1839}}` to describe a response of awe. On the day of Pentecost, the crowd was **amazed** and **marvelled** at the disciples speaking [[Acts 2:7]].
* `{{G3096}}` **mageúō** (to practice magic): This term provides a contrast, describing the source of false wonder. Simon **used sorcery** and **bewitched** the people of Samaria, a counterfeit of the true astonishment caused by God's power [[Acts 8:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1839}}` is demonstrated in its varied applications.
* **Response to Divine Revelation:** The word frequently marks a moment when individuals encounter the power or truth of God in a way that overwhelms their normal senses. The believers of the circumcision were **astonished** that the gift of the Holy Ghost was poured out on the Gentiles [[Acts 10:45]].
* **Distinguishing True and False Power:** In Samaria, Simon **bewitched** the people with sorceries [[Acts 8:11]]. However, Simon himself later **wondered** when beholding the authentic miracles and signs performed by Philip, highlighting the superior nature of God's power over magical arts [[Acts 8:13]].
* **A State of Divine Focus:** The expression "to be beside oneself" is used to describe both perceived madness [[Mark 3:21]] and radical devotion. Paul reclaims the term, stating that if he is **beside himself**, it is for God, suggesting a state of mind wholly dedicated to a divine purpose [[2 Corinthians 5:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1839}}` **exístēmi** is a powerful term that conveys more than mere surprise. It describes a profound displacement of the mind, whether through amazement at God's miracles, bewilderment at unexpected events, or being captivated by either divine truth or deceptive sorcery. From the crowds being **amazed** at Jesus's power to Paul being **beside himself** for God, the word captures a spectrum of intense human reactions to the extraordinary.
TRV