middle voice from εὐλαβής; to be circumspect, i.e. (by implication) to be apprehensive; religiously, to reverence:--(moved with) fear.
Transliteration:eulabéomai
Pronunciation:yoo-lab-eh'-om-ahee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb εὐλαβέομαι (eulabéomai, `{{G2125}}`) is derived from the adjective εὐλαβής (eulabēs, `{{G2126}}`), which itself is a compound of εὖ (eu, "well") and λαμβάνω (lambanō, "to take" or "to grasp"). Thus, the literal sense of the root is "taking hold well" or "grasping carefully." This etymology underpins its primary semantic range.
In its broadest sense, εὐλαβέομαι denotes being circumspect, cautious, or prudent. This carefulness can lead to an apprehension or apprehension of potential danger, hence "to be apprehensive" or "to fear." However, this "fear" is not typically terror or panic, but a thoughtful, often respectful, concern. When applied in a religious context, it signifies deep reverence, piety, or godly fear – a profound respect that motivates careful and obedient action. The middle voice form emphasizes that this state of circumspection or reverence is an internal disposition or an action taken by oneself for oneself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb εὐλαβέομαι (`{{G2125}}`) appears twice in the New Testament, each instance illuminating a distinct facet of its meaning:
1. **[[Acts 23:10]]**: "And when a great dissension arose, the tribune, fearing (εὐλαβουμένος) that Paul would be torn to pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from among them and bring him into the barracks." Here, the tribune's "fear" is not one of terror for himself, but a pragmatic, protective apprehension concerning Paul's safety. It signifies a prudent and cautious assessment of a volatile situation, leading to decisive action to prevent harm. This usage aligns with the sense of being "circumspect" or "apprehensive" in a practical, non-religious context.
2. **[[Hebrews 11:7]]**: "By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear (εὐλαβηθείς) constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith." In this pivotal verse, Noah's εὐλαβηθείς is a response to a divine warning. It describes a "reverent fear" or a "godly awe" that led to immediate and obedient action. This is not a cowering fear, but a profound respect for God's word and power, coupled with a cautious awareness of the consequences of disobedience. It perfectly encapsulates the "religiously, to reverence" aspect of the definition, demonstrating how such fear is productive and faith-driven.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding εὐλαβέομαι (`{{G2125}}`) is enhanced by examining its cognates and related terms:
* **εὐλαβής (eulabēs, `{{G2126}}`)**: The adjective from which the verb is derived, meaning "cautious," "reverent," or "devout." It is used in [[Luke 2:25]] to describe Simeon as "righteous and devout" and in [[Acts 2:5]] for "devout men from every nation under heaven." These contexts highlight the positive moral and spiritual qualities associated with the root.
* **εὐλάβεια (eulabeia, `{{G2124}}`)**: The noun form, meaning "caution," "reverence," or "piety." It appears in [[Hebrews 5:7]] describing Christ's "reverence" in His prayers, and in [[Hebrews 12:28]], where believers are exhorted to serve God "with reverence and awe." This noun reinforces the deep, respectful fear that characterizes true piety.
* **φοβέω (phobeō, `{{G5399}}`)**: While εὐλαβέομαι can imply fear, φοβέω is the more general Greek term for "to fear," encompassing everything from terror to respectful awe. εὐλαβέομαι is a more nuanced term, specifically denoting a prudent or reverential fear that leads to appropriate action, rather than mere fright.
* **σέβομαι (sebōmai, `{{G4576}}`)**: To worship, revere, or venerate. This term shares the aspect of reverence but focuses more on the act of worship or veneration, whereas εὐλαβέομαι emphasizes the internal state of cautious or reverent apprehension.
Concepts closely associated with εὐλαβέομαι include prudence, discretion, piety, godly fear, and faith-driven obedience.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of εὐλαβέομαι (`{{G2125}}`) lies in its portrayal of a "fear" that is not debilitating but redemptive and constructive. It is a fear rooted in wisdom, discernment, and a proper understanding of one's position before God and challenging circumstances.
In the case of Noah, εὐλαβέομαι signifies the profound respect and obedience due to a holy God. This "reverent fear" of God is a foundational principle of biblical wisdom, leading to righteous living and faithful action. It is distinct from a servile fear of punishment; rather, it is a filial fear, born of love and trust, that seeks to honor and obey. Noah's response demonstrates that true faith is not passive but actively engages with God's warnings and commands, even when they seem counter-intuitive to the world.
The tribune's εὐλαβέομαι in [[Acts 23:10]] also carries a theological undertone, albeit implicitly. It showcases a prudent concern for human life, reflecting a moral compass that values order and protection, aligning with principles of justice and care that are ultimately derived from God's character.
Thus, εὐλαβέομαι points to a virtue: a careful, discerning, and reverent disposition that enables individuals to respond appropriately to divine revelation and challenging earthly realities. It is a fear that leads to life, not death; to obedience, not rebellion; to wisdom, not folly.
### Summary
εὐλαβέομαι (`{{G2125}}`) is a Greek verb signifying to be circumspect, apprehensive, or reverent. Its etymology, "to take hold well," underscores its core meaning of carefulness and prudence. In the New Testament, it is used to describe a practical, protective apprehension (the tribune in [[Acts 23:10]]) and, more profoundly, a "reverent fear" that motivates faithful obedience to God's warnings (Noah in [[Hebrews 11:7]]). Distinct from a general fear (`{{G5399}}` φοβέω), εὐλαβέομαι denotes a positive, active, and discerning fear that leads to appropriate action and deep reverence for God. Theologically, it highlights a godly fear that is a source of wisdom, obedience, and profound piety, demonstrating a proper, respectful relationship with divine authority and the world.
TRV