The Greek word ptoéō, represented by G4422, means to scare or frighten. Its base definition suggests a connection to causing someone to fall or fly away in terror. It appears 3 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, indicating a specific and impactful usage.
In the biblical narrative, G4422 is used to describe a state of intense fear or alarm. In one context, Jesus instructs his followers not to be terrified by the onset of wars G4171 and commotions G181, framing this fear as a response to worldly chaos that must be resisted Luke 21:9. In another instance, the disciples are terrified upon seeing the resurrected Christ, whom they mistook for a spirit G4151, highlighting a reaction to a sudden and supernatural event Luke 24:37.
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which G4422 appears:
- G1719 émphobos (in fear, i.e. alarmed): This word is used directly alongside G4422 to describe the disciples as "terrified and affrighted," emphasizing the depth of their alarm Luke 24:37.
- G181 akatastasía (instability, i.e. disorder): This term for commotions is given as a cause for the potential terror that believers are warned against Luke 21:9.
- G4151 pneûma (a current of air...a spirit): The disciples' terror was rooted in their belief that they had seen a spirit, connecting the fear of G4422 to the spiritual realm Luke 24:37.
- G4171 pólemos (warfare): The hearing of wars is cited as one of the events that should not cause believers to be terrified Luke 21:9.
The theological weight of G4422 is evident in its application to moments of great consequence.
- Fear in Response to the Divine: The disciples' reaction to the resurrected Jesus shows how a supernatural encounter can provoke terror, even when the presence is divine Luke 24:37.
- A Call for Eschatological Steadfastness: Jesus' command "be not terrified" Luke 21:9 serves as a directive for believers to maintain faith and not be frightened by the turmoil preceding the end times.
- Contrasting Involuntary vs. Controlled Fear: The use of G4422 illustrates two types of fear: an involuntary, startling reaction to the supernatural, and a fear of worldly events that faith is meant to overcome.
In summary, G4422 is a potent term for being scared or frightened. Though used sparingly, it captures a profound sense of alarm. It appears in contexts that contrast a commanded resistance to fear in the face of worldly upheaval with the instinctual terror that can arise from an unexpected encounter with the spiritual realm, making it a key word for understanding biblical perspectives on fear and faith.
TRV