a primitive root; to fear; affright, be (make) afraid, terrify, trouble.
Transliteration:bâʻath
Pronunciation:baw-ath'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root בָּעַת (bâʻath, `{{H1204}}`) is a primitive verb conveying the core meaning of "to fear" or "to be terrified." Its semantic range extends to encompass being "affrighted," "made afraid," "terrified," or "troubled." Unlike some other Hebrew words for fear that might imply reverence or awe (e.g., יָרֵא, `{{H3372}}`), בָּעַת primarily denotes a sudden, intense, and often overwhelming sense of dread or panic. It describes a profound disturbance of one's inner peace, often triggered by an external, startling, or threatening stimulus. The emphasis is on the visceral, disquieting effect of terror, leading to a state of being greatly alarmed or thrown into consternation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of בָּעַת in the Hebrew Bible consistently highlight situations of extreme distress or supernatural encounter, underscoring the word's intensity.
In the book of Daniel, the word is used to describe the profound terror experienced by the prophet in response to divine visions. For instance, in [[Daniel 7:15]], Daniel states, "My spirit was grieved within my body, and the visions of my head *troubled* (בָּעַת) me." Similarly, after the vision of the ram and the goat, he testifies, "I was *terrified* (בָּעַת) and fell on my face" [[Daniel 8:17]]. Here, בָּעַת signifies the overwhelming and physically debilitating fear induced by the presence of the divine or the revelation of future events, demonstrating human frailty before the transcendent.
In the book of Job, the term describes the psychological torment of suffering. Job laments that God *terrifies* (בָּעַת) him with dreams and frightens him with visions, even on his bed [[Job 7:14]]. This usage emphasizes the internal, psychological dimension of fear, where even the subconscious mind becomes a source of dread.
In the Psalms, בָּעַת appears in contexts of extreme peril and distress. For example, [[Psalm 18:4]] (paralleling [[2 Samuel 22:5]]) speaks of "the cords of death encompassed me; the torrents of destruction *terrified* (בָּעַת) me." This illustrates fear as an oppressive force, like a flood, that overwhelms and threatens to engulf the individual. In these instances, the word vividly portrays the experience of being utterly overwhelmed by circumstances beyond one's control, often leading to a cry for divine deliverance.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully grasp the nuance of בָּעַת, it is helpful to compare it with other Hebrew terms for fear:
* **יָרֵא (yare', `{{H3372}}`):** This is a much broader term, encompassing everything from reverential awe (e.g., "fear of the Lord") to ordinary human fear. While יָרֵא can describe a general state of apprehension, בָּעַת points to a more sudden, intense, and often startling terror.
* **פָּחַד (pachad, `{{H6342}}`):** This word often signifies dread or trembling, frequently associated with a sudden onset of terror or the fear of a specific, imminent danger. It shares with בָּעַת the sense of a profound, unsettling fear, but בָּעַת often emphasizes the *being startled* or *overwhelmed* aspect more directly.
* **חָרַד (charad, `{{H2729}}`):** This term focuses on the physical manifestation of fear, such as trembling or shuddering. While a person experiencing בָּעַת might also חָרַד, the latter describes the outward reaction, while the former describes the internal state of alarm.
In essence, בָּעַת describes a deep, unsettling fear that disrupts one's equilibrium, often brought on by a sudden and overwhelming event or revelation. It signifies a profound internal disturbance, a sense of being utterly dismayed or thrown into consternation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of בָּעַת lies primarily in its portrayal of human vulnerability in the face of overwhelming power, particularly divine power. When humans are "terrified" (בָּעַת) by God's presence or His revelatory acts (as seen in Daniel), it underscores the vast chasm between the finite creature and the infinite Creator. This terror is not necessarily punitive but rather a natural and appropriate response to the sheer majesty, holiness, and power of God, which transcends human comprehension and capacity. It can serve to humble the individual, leading to a deeper recognition of divine sovereignty and a reliance on God's grace.
Conversely, the experience of being "terrified" by adversaries or by the trials of life (as in Job and the Psalms) highlights the human need for divine rescue. In these contexts, בָָּעַת becomes a catalyst for prayer and a testament to God's role as a deliverer who can calm the troubled spirit and provide peace amidst distress. The psalmist's plea for God to deliver him from those who terrify him demonstrates faith in God's ability to quell even the most profound human fears. Thus, while בָּעַת denotes a deeply unsettling experience, it often points toward the ultimate source of peace and security found only in God.
### Summary
בָּעַת (bâʻath, `{{H1204}}`) is a potent Hebrew verb signifying a profound, sudden, and often overwhelming sense of fear, terror, or dread. Its occurrences in the biblical text consistently depict individuals experiencing intense psychological and emotional disturbance, whether in response to divine revelation (as with Daniel's visions), the inexplicable suffering of life (Job), or the existential threats of enemies and death (Psalms). Distinct from other forms of fear, בָּעַת emphasizes the disquieting, startling, and deeply troubling nature of the experience. Theologically, it serves to highlight human frailty and the transcendent power of God, often leading to a humble recognition of divine sovereignty or a fervent plea for God's delivering hand to bring peace in the midst of terror.
TRV