### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ptýrō**, represented by `{{G4426}}`, means **to frighten** or **terrify**. It is a very rare term in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its singular usage emphasizes a specific spiritual response to opposition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4426}}` is in [[Philippians 1:28]], where believers are instructed not to be **terrified** by their adversaries. In this context, a lack of fear is presented as a sign from God. For the adversaries, this fearlessness is an "evident token" `{{G1732}}` of their own "perdition" `{{G684}}`. For the believers, it is a sign of their "salvation" `{{G4991}}`, which ultimately comes from "God" `{{G2316}}`. The word encapsulates a stance of divine confidence in the face of hostility.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify its meaning:
* `{{G480}}` **antíkeimai** (adversary): This word describes those who would cause fear, meaning "to lie opposite, i.e. be adverse (figuratively, repugnant) to." The presence of many **adversaries** is noted in other contexts [[1 Corinthians 16:9]].
* `{{G1732}}` **éndeixis** (evident token): This term, meaning "indication (abstractly)," explains that the believer's lack of fear is a visible **proof**. It is also used to describe the declaration of God's righteousness [[Romans 3:25]].
* `{{G684}}` **apṓleia** (perdition): This word, meaning "ruin or loss," describes the fate of the adversaries. It is used elsewhere to describe the way that leads to **destruction** [[Matthew 7:13]].
* `{{G4991}}` **sōtēría** (salvation): This is the contrasting outcome for the believer, defined as "rescue or safety." It is a central concept, as there is **salvation** in no other name but Christ's [[Acts 4:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4426}}` is significant despite its rarity. Its single use establishes a key principle:
* **Fearlessness as a Divine Sign:** A believer's refusal to be **terrified** by opposition is more than human courage; it is an "evident token" `{{G1732}}` from God that reveals the final judgment for both parties [[Philippians 1:28]].
* **Contrasting Destinies:** The response to adversity directly reflects one's ultimate fate. The lack of fear in a believer points to their "salvation" `{{G4991}}`, while it simultaneously signals the "perdition" `{{G684}}` of their adversaries [[Philippians 1:28]].
* **God as the Source of Confidence:** The ability to remain unterrified is explicitly attributed to God. The verse concludes that the entire situation—the sign and the salvation—is "of God" `{{G2316}}`, grounding the believer's confidence in a divine source [[Philippians 1:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4426}}` **ptýrō**, while appearing only once, offers a profound insight into the Christian's stance against opposition. To be "in nothing **terrified**" is not merely a command to be brave, but an encouragement to exhibit a God-given confidence that serves as a living testimony. This single word powerfully illustrates how a believer's internal state of fearlessness can be an external sign of God's verdict on the world.
TRV