### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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.
TRV