akin (by transposition) to (daring); boldness (subjectively):--courage.
Transliteration:thársos
Pronunciation:thar'-sos
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun θάρσος (thársos, `{{G2294}}`) denotes a state of inner resolve and confidence, best rendered as "courage" or "boldness." Its etymological root is akin to verbs signifying "to dare" or "to be confident," suggesting an active, volitional posture in the face of potential difficulty or opposition. Unlike a reckless impulsiveness, θάρσος implies a settled assurance that enables one to proceed without being paralyzed by fear. It speaks to a fortitude of spirit, a readiness to face challenges with an unwavering heart. While closely related to the verb θαρρέω (tharrheō, `{{G2293}}`), which means "to be courageous" or "to take courage," θάρσος emphasizes the quality or state of courage itself. Its semantic range touches upon inner strength, confidence, and a lack of timidity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun θάρσος (thársos, `{{G2294}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Acts 28:15]]. In this passage, Paul, having endured a perilous sea journey and shipwreck, is approaching Rome as a prisoner. As he and his companions journey, they are met by brothers from Rome at the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns. The text states, "When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took θάρσος." The context is crucial: Paul, though a prisoner, is about to enter the imperial capital, a place of immense power and potential danger for a Christian evangelist. The arrival of fellow believers, who have traveled to meet him, serves as a profound encouragement. This act of fellowship instills in Paul not merely temporary relief, but a renewed sense of courage and confidence for the mission ahead. It highlights how divine providence, often channeled through human relationships, can fortify the spirit of a servant of God, enabling them to face daunting circumstances with renewed boldness. The θάρσος Paul received was not a naive optimism, but a Spirit-empowered resolve born from seeing God's people and discerning God's continued presence.
### Related Words & Concepts
θάρσος (thársos, `{{G2294}}`) resonates with several other key Greek terms in the New Testament, each offering a distinct nuance.
* θαρρέω (tharrheō, `{{G2293}}`): The verbal form, meaning "to be of good courage" or "to take heart." This verb is frequently used in the imperative, as in Jesus' command to His disciples: "Take θάρσος (be of good cheer), it is I; do not be afraid" [[Matthew 14:27]]. While θάρσος is the inherent quality, θαρρέω is the act of exercising it.
* παρρησία (parrēsia, `{{G3954}}`): Often translated as "boldness," "frankness," or "confidence." While θάρσος emphasizes inner courage, παρρησία more frequently denotes the outward expression of that courage, particularly in speech before authorities or in evangelism [[Acts 4:13]], [[Ephesians 6:19]]. One might possess θάρσος which then manifests as παρρησία.
* ὑπομονή (hypomonē, `{{G5262}}`): "Endurance" or "steadfastness." This term describes the capacity to remain firm under pressure, often over a prolonged period [[Romans 5:3]]. While θάρσος is the initial courage to face a situation, ὑπομονή is the sustained perseverance through it.
* πίστις (pistis, `{{G4102}}`): "Faith." Ultimately, Christian θάρσος is rooted in πίστις. It is faith in God's power, presence, and promises that provides the foundational confidence to overcome fear and act with boldness [[Hebrews 11:1]].
These words collectively paint a picture of the Christian disposition: an inner courage (θάρσος) that enables bold speech (παρρησία) and steadfast endurance (ὑπομονή), all grounded in unwavering faith (πίστις).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of θάρσος (thársos, `{{G2294}}`) lies in its intimate connection to divine empowerment and the believer's reliance on God. Christian courage is not self-generated bravado but a gift and a fruit of the Spirit, enabling believers to fulfill God's purposes in a fallen world.
1. **Divine Source:** True θάρσος for the believer stems from an awareness of God's presence and sovereignty. Paul's experience in [[Acts 28:15]] illustrates that even the most seasoned apostle needed divine encouragement, often mediated through the body of Christ. This θάρσος is not a denial of danger but a confidence in God's ability to sustain through it.
2. **Enabling Ministry:** Courage is essential for effective Christian witness and ministry. Without θάρσος, fear can paralyze evangelism, stifle prophetic speech, and hinder acts of compassion. It allows believers to speak truth to power, share the Gospel without shame, and endure persecution for Christ's sake.
3. **Overcoming Fear:** The biblical narrative frequently contrasts θάρσος with fear (φόβος, phobos, `{{G5401}}`). God repeatedly commands His people to "be strong and θάρσος (courageous)" (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 31:6]], [[Joshua 1:6]], [[Joshua 1:7]], [[Joshua 1:9]]), assuring them of His unfailing presence. This divine imperative underscores that courage is not the absence of fear, but the resolve to act in spite of it, trusting in God's faithfulness.
4. **Christological Basis:** Ultimately, Christian θάρσος is founded on the finished work of Christ. His victory over sin and death provides the ultimate basis for confidence and boldness in the face of any adversary or challenge [[John 16:33]]. Believers can "take θάρσος" because Christ has overcome the world.
### Summary
θάρσος (thársos, `{{G2294}}`) is a rich Greek term denoting inner courage, boldness, and confidence. While appearing only once as a noun in the New Testament in [[Acts 28:15]], its singular usage in Paul's life-threatening journey to Rome powerfully illustrates its meaning: a divinely-imparted resolve that fortifies a believer in challenging circumstances, often mediated through Christian fellowship. It is closely related to the verb θαρρέω (tharrheō, `{{G2293}}`) and distinct from, though complementary to, παρρησία (parrēsia, `{{G3954}}`) (outward boldness) and ὑπομονή (hypomonē, `{{G5262}}`) (endurance). Theologically, θάρσος is not mere human grit but a Spirit-empowered disposition rooted in faith in God's presence and promises, essential for overcoming fear, engaging in ministry, and bearing witness to Christ's victory. It empowers believers to face the world with an unwavering heart, knowing that their strength comes from above.
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