### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thambéō**, represented by `{{G2284}}`, is used to describe a state of being stupefied with surprise, to be astounded or amazed. It appears 5 times across 4 unique verses, capturing a powerful reaction to divine power or confounding events. Its definition is to stupefy (with surprise), i.e. astound:--amaze, astonish.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2284}}` is used to illustrate profound reactions to Jesus's ministry and presence. When Jesus commanded an unclean spirit to leave a man, the crowd was all **amazed** at his new doctrine and authority [[Mark 1:27]]. Similarly, the disciples were **astonished** at his words regarding the difficulty for the rich to enter the kingdom of God [[Mark 10:24]]. The term also captures a sense of foreboding and awe; as Jesus set out for Jerusalem, the disciples following him were **amazed** and afraid [[Mark 10:32]]. This same word describes Saul's state on the road to Damascus, where he was trembling and **astonished** after his encounter with the Lord [[Acts 9:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the emotional state associated with `{{G2284}}`:
* `{{G5141}}` **trémō**: Defined as to "tremble" or fear. This word is paired directly with `{{G2284}}` in [[Acts 9:6]], where a trembling and **astonished** Saul responds to the Lord.
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō**: This term means to frighten, or passively, to be alarmed or be in awe of. It is used in parallel with `{{G2284}}` in [[Mark 10:32]], where the disciples were **amazed** and then became afraid as they followed Jesus.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G2284}}` is found in the types of events that provoke such a reaction. It highlights moments when human understanding is confronted by the divine.
* **Awe at Supernatural Authority:** The word is used to describe the crowd's reaction to Jesus's power over unclean spirits, demonstrating that his authority was utterly astounding to onlookers [[Mark 1:27]].
* **Confrontation with Divine Teaching:** The disciples' astonishment shows that Jesus's words were often as powerful and world-altering as his deeds, challenging their fundamental assumptions about wealth and salvation [[Mark 10:24]].
* **Response to a Divine Encounter:** The term is central to Saul's conversion, where being **astonished** is the immediate response to a direct, overwhelming revelation from the Lord [[Acts 9:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2284}}` is more than simple surprise; it denotes a level of astonishment that leaves one stupefied. It consistently marks a human response to an encounter with the power, authority, or direct presence of God, whether through miraculous acts, challenging teachings, or a life-altering vision. It is an emotion that sits at the intersection of awe and shock, often paired with fear and trembling.
TRV