from יָרֵא; fearing; morally, reverent; afraid, fear (-ful).
Transliteration:yârêʼ
Pronunciation:yaw-ray'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew adjective יָרֵא (yârêʼ), Strong's number `{{H3373}}`, is derived from the verb יָרֵא (yârêʼ), `{{H3372}}`, meaning "to fear, to be afraid, to revere." As an adjective, `{{H3373}}` describes a state of being "fearing" or "fearful." Its semantic range is remarkably broad, encompassing both a negative sense of dread or terror and a positive, profound reverence or awe. In its negative connotation, it describes the natural human emotion of being afraid of danger, punishment, or an overwhelming force, often leading to flight or paralysis. In its positive, morally elevated sense, particularly in theological contexts, it signifies a respectful, humble, and obedient awe before God, acknowledging His power, holiness, and sovereignty. This latter sense is not one of servile dread, but rather a proper, reverent response to the divine, leading to righteousness and wisdom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of `{{H3373}}` throughout the Hebrew Bible illustrates its wide semantic scope. In instances of negative fear, the term describes individuals or groups overwhelmed by terror. For example, Jacob is described as "greatly afraid and distressed" (וַיִּירָא יַעֲקֹב מְאֹד וַיֵּצֶר לוֹ) when he anticipates meeting Esau in [[Genesis 32:7]]. Similarly, the Israelites were "greatly afraid" (וַיִּירְאוּ מְאֹד) when they saw the approaching Egyptian army at the Red Sea in [[Exodus 14:10]]. This usage highlights a natural, often overwhelming, human response to perceived threat.
Conversely, and more significantly for biblical theology, `{{H3373}}` frequently denotes a righteous and reverent "fear of the Lord." The midwives in Egypt, Shiphrah and Puah, are commended because "they feared God" (וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים) and refused Pharaoh's command to kill the male Israelite infants, as recounted in [[Exodus 1:17]]. This "fear" is explicitly linked to moral courage and obedience to divine principles over human decrees. Deuteronomy frequently emphasizes the importance of being "one who fears the Lord" (אִישׁ יְרֵא אֱלֹהִים), instructing Israel to "fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways, to love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul" ([[Deuteronomy 10:12]]). Here, the fear of God is intrinsically tied to covenant faithfulness, love, and wholehearted devotion. The Psalms also frequently speak of the "man who fears the Lord" ([[Psalm 25:12]]) as one who receives guidance, blessings, and intimacy with God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to `{{H3373}}` is its root verb, יָרֵא (yârêʼ), `{{H3372}}`, which is the active form of "to fear." Other Hebrew words expressing fear or terror include פַּחַד (pachad), `{{H6342}}`, which often denotes dread or sudden terror, and חָרַד (charad), `{{H2729}}`, meaning to tremble or be anxious. While these terms can overlap with the negative sense of `{{H3373}}`, they generally lack the positive, reverential dimension.
Conceptually, the "fear of the Lord" as expressed by `{{H3373}}` is deeply intertwined with several core biblical themes:
* **Wisdom:** The declaration that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (יִרְאַת יְהוָה רֵאשִׁית חָכְמָה) in [[Proverbs 9:10]] (using the noun form of the root) highlights its foundational role in understanding and living according to divine truth.
* **Obedience and Righteousness:** To fear God is to obey His commandments and live righteously, as seen in texts like [[Deuteronomy 6:24]] and [[Psalm 112:1]].
* **Covenant Fidelity:** The fear of the Lord is a hallmark of those who remain faithful to God's covenant, distinguishing them from the wicked or disobedient.
* **Holiness and Majesty:** The awe inspired by God's holiness (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh, `{{H6944}}`) and majesty (הָדָר, hadar, `{{H1926}}`) naturally evokes the reverent fear described by `{{H3373}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3373}}`, particularly in its positive sense, cannot be overstated. The "fear of the Lord" is presented not as a debilitating terror, but as a proper, life-affirming response to the Creator. It is the acknowledgement of God's absolute sovereignty, infinite power, perfect justice, and unapproachable holiness. This reverent fear motivates obedience, deters sin, and fosters a humble dependence on God. It is a prerequisite for true wisdom and understanding, guiding individuals to choose paths that lead to life and blessing rather than destruction. In the Old Testament, the "fear of the Lord" serves as a distinguishing mark of the righteous, a cornerstone of covenant relationship, and a source of security and divine favor. It is a profound spiritual posture that encompasses respect, awe, worship, and humble submission to God's will.
### Summary
The Hebrew adjective יָרֵא (yârêʼ), `{{H3373}}`, describes the state of "fearing." Its semantic range spans from literal dread and terror in the face of danger to a profound, reverent awe and respect, particularly towards God. While it can denote a natural, negative human emotion, its most significant theological usage describes the "fear of the Lord," which is not a servile terror but a virtuous, life-giving reverence. This positive "fear" is foundational to biblical wisdom, motivates obedience to God's commands, and is a hallmark of covenant faithfulness. It signifies a proper, humble response to God's holiness, power, and justice, leading to righteousness, blessing, and a deeper relationship with the Divine.
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