The Greek word ptóēsis, represented by G4423, denotes alarm or amazement. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its singular usage provides a very specific context for understanding its meaning as a state of sudden, terrifying fear.
In its sole biblical appearance, G4423 is used to describe a type of fear that believers should not possess. The verse instructs believers to be like Sarah, "whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement" 1 Peter 3:6. Here, the word qualifies the kind of fear to be avoided, suggesting not just general anxiety, but a state of being startled or thrown into confusion and terror. The context links freedom from this alarm to righteous conduct.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of G4423:
- G5399 phobéō (to be alarmed; revere): This is the verb for being afraid, used directly with G4423 in 1 Peter 3:6. It highlights the action of fearing, while G4423 specifies the nature of that fear as "amazement." Elsewhere, it is used to command a reverential fear of God Matthew 10:28 or to encourage believers to "fear not" in the face of suffering Revelation 2:10.
- G3367 mēdeís (not even one): In 1 Peter 3:6, this word emphasizes the complete absence of the "amazement" believers should exhibit, translated as "any." Its function is to negate entirely, as seen in other commands like "owe no man any thing" Romans 13:8 and "let nothing be done through strife" Philippians 2:3.
The theological weight of G4423 is concentrated in its single use, highlighting a key aspect of Christian character.
- Freedom from Destructive Fear: The command to not be afraid with any G4423 is a call to a steadfast faith that is not easily shaken by sudden threats or terror. It distinguishes this negative, paralyzing alarm from a healthy, reverential fear of God.
- Evidence of Spiritual Heritage: In its scriptural context, the absence of this alarming fear is presented as a characteristic of the true "daughters of Sarah," linking internal peace to a legacy of faith 1 Peter 3:6.
- Fruit of Righteous Living: The verse explicitly connects a life free from G4423 with "doing well," suggesting that a steady heart is a direct result of living a righteous life, rather than a byproduct of favorable circumstances.
In summary, G4423 is a highly specific term for a particular kind of fear: a sudden, disruptive alarm. Though used only once, its placement in 1 Peter 3:6 provides a powerful instruction. It teaches that a believer's faith, when coupled with good conduct, should produce a stability that is immune to the terrifying amazement that can arise from worldly troubles, setting it apart from the righteous reverence due to God.
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