### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb θαῤῥέω (tharrhéō) signifies the state of "exercising courage," "being bold," or "having confidence." As noted in its definition, it functions as an alternative form of θαῤσέω (tharséō) `{{G2293}}`, sharing a closely related semantic range that emphasizes inner strength, assurance, and a lack of fear in the face of challenging circumstances. While θαῤσέω often appears as an imperative ("Take courage!"), θαῤῥέω more frequently describes an ongoing state or disposition of confidence.
A crucial distinction exists between θαῤῥέω and τολμάω (tolmáō) `{{G5111}}`. While both can be translated as "to be bold" or "to dare," τολμάω can carry a negative connotation of audacity, presumption, or even recklessness, implying an action undertaken without proper authority or consideration. In contrast, θαῤῥέω consistently denotes a positive, divinely-enabled confidence or a righteous boldness that is grounded in faith, truth, or a clear conscience. It is not about being rash, but about being resolute, firm, and assured.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
θαῤῥέω appears several times in the New Testament, primarily in the Pauline epistles and Hebrews, consistently conveying a sense of spiritual assurance:
* **2 Corinthians 5:6, 8**: Paul uses θαῤῥέω twice to express his and his fellow apostles' confidence concerning their earthly existence versus being "at home with the Lord." This confidence is rooted in their faith and the eschatological hope of resurrection and eternal presence with Christ. "Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord... We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord." [[2 Corinthians 5:6]] [[2 Corinthians 5:8]] Here, the term highlights a profound spiritual assurance in the face of mortality.
* **2 Corinthians 7:16**: Paul expresses his confidence in the Corinthians' repentance and obedience, which brought him joy. "I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things." [[2 Corinthians 7:16]] This instance demonstrates confidence in the spiritual progress and character of others.
* **2 Corinthians 10:1-2**: Paul employs θαῤῥέω to describe his intended approach when confronting those who challenged his apostolic authority. He contrasts his "meek" presence with his "boldness" when absent, and his desire not to be "bold" in person with the confidence he *would* use against his detractors. "Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you: But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh." [[2 Corinthians 10:1]] [[2 Corinthians 10:2]] Here, θαῤῥέω signifies a necessary spiritual resolve and authority in defending the truth and addressing sin, not human arrogance, but a divinely sanctioned courage for ministry.
* **Hebrews 13:6**: The author exhorts believers to live without covetousness, trusting in God's provision, and then cites a passage from Psalm 118. "So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me." [[Hebrews 13:6]] In this context, θαῤῥέω is directly linked to fearlessness, enabling a confident declaration of trust in God's help and protection against human threats.
### Related Words & Concepts
* θαῤσέω (tharséō) `{{G2293}}`: The base word, often translated "to take courage" or "to be of good cheer." Used by Jesus to encourage individuals in distress (e.g., the paralytic, the woman with the flow of blood, the disciples in the storm). It shares the core idea of inner strength and confidence, often in response to an external challenge.
* παρρησία (parrēsia) `{{G3954}}`: A noun meaning "boldness," "frankness," "courage," or "freedom of speech." While θαῤῥέω describes the *state* of being confident, παρρησία often describes the *expression* or *manifestation* of that confidence, particularly in public proclamation of the gospel or in approaching God in prayer.
* τολμάω (tolmáō) `{{G5111}}`: As discussed, this verb can mean "to dare" or "to be bold," but it carries the potential for negative connotations of presumption or recklessness, distinguishing it from the generally positive θαῤῥέω.
* πίστις (pistis) `{{G4102}}`: Faith. The confidence expressed by θαῤῥέω is often a direct result or manifestation of πίστις. Confidence in God and His promises stems from genuine faith in His character and power.
* ἀφοβία (aphobia) `{{G870}}`: Fearlessness. θαῤῥέω often results in ἀφοβία, as seen in [[Hebrews 13:6]], where confidence in God directly leads to not fearing what man can do.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of θαῤῥέω is profound, highlighting several key aspects of the Christian life:
* **Divine Empowerment of Courage:** The confidence conveyed by θαῤῥέω is rarely portrayed as self-generated human bravado. Instead, it is consistently presented as a spiritual quality, divinely enabled and sustained. Believers can be confident because God is faithful, present, and sovereign.
* **Confidence in Adversity and Mortality:** The term underscores the believer's capacity to face trials, opposition, persecution, and even death with assurance. This confidence, as seen in [[2 Corinthians 5:6-8]], is rooted in the hope of resurrection and eternal life with Christ, transcending the limitations and fears of the physical realm.
* **Boldness in Ministry and Truth:** For Paul, θαῤῥέω is essential for apostolic ministry. It signifies the spiritual authority and resolute determination required to defend the gospel, confront error, and exercise discipline, not out of human arrogance but from a divine commission and a pure conscience ([[2 Corinthians 10:1-2]]).
* **Foundation in Trust and God's Promises:** The confidence of θαῤῥέω is firmly grounded in trust in God's character, His unwavering promises, and His active presence as a helper and protector. It is a confident hope that anchors the soul.
* **Distinction from Worldly Daring:** The biblical use of θαῤῥέω stands in stark contrast to worldly "boldness," which can be rooted in pride, self-reliance, or recklessness. Christian θαῤῥέω is often coupled with humility, dependence on God, and a focus on righteous ends.
### Summary
θαῤῥέω (tharrhéō) denotes a deep-seated courage and confidence, often divinely empowered. It is a positive spiritual disposition that enables believers to face life's challenges, including mortality and opposition, with assurance. This confidence is rooted in faith in God's faithfulness, His promises, and His active presence. It empowers believers to speak and act with spiritual authority in ministry, distinguishing itself from mere human daring or presumption by its divine origin and righteous purpose.
TRV