probably akin to the alternate of πίπτω (through the idea of causing to fall) or to πέτομαι (through that of causing to fly away); to scare:--frighten.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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