### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thámbos**, represented by `{{G2285}}`, describes a state of **stupefaction** or **astonishment** caused by surprise. It is derived from an obsolete term meaning "to dumbfound." It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, consistently capturing a profound reaction to a miraculous event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2285}}` marks a moment of overwhelming awe in response to divine power. In Luke's Gospel, the people were all **amazed** after Jesus commanded an unclean spirit to come out of a man, questioning the authority and power of His word [[Luke 4:36]]. Later, when Peter and his companions witnessed a miraculous catch of fish, they were **astonished** at the sheer size of the draught [[Luke 5:9]]. In the book of Acts, onlookers who knew the lame man at the Beautiful gate were filled with **wonder** and amazement upon seeing him healed [[Acts 3:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the specific nature of this astonishment:
* `{{G1611}}` **ékstasis**: This term signifies "a displacement of the mind, i.e. bewilderment, 'ecstasy'." It is used alongside `{{G2285}}` in [[Acts 3:10]], where the people were filled with both "wonder" and "amazement," indicating a reaction that bordered on bewilderment.
* `{{G4023}}` **periéchō**: Meaning "to hold all around," this word is used with `{{G2285}}` in [[Luke 5:9]] to convey being completely encompassed or seized by astonishment. The phrase suggests that the feeling of awe was all-consuming for Peter and those with him.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2285}}` lies in its function as a signifier of a genuine encounter with divine power.
* **Reaction to Authority:** The amazement of the crowd in [[Luke 4:36]] is a direct response to the authority in Jesus' command over the spiritual realm, something they had not seen before.
* **Evidence of the Supernatural:** The astonishment shown in both the healing of the lame man [[Acts 3:10]] and the miraculous catch of fish [[Luke 5:9]] serves as a testament to an event that defies natural explanation, pointing directly to the work of God.
* **Stupefying Awe:** The word implies more than mere surprise; it describes being dumbfounded, a state where human understanding is momentarily suspended in the face of God's overwhelming power.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2285}}` is a specific and potent term used to describe the profound astonishment that grips a person when witnessing a direct and undeniable act of God. Though used sparingly, it effectively communicates the overwhelming, stupefying awe experienced in response to the supernatural authority and power demonstrated by Jesus and his followers. It captures the initial human shock of seeing the divine intersect with the ordinary world.
TRV