### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâchad**, represented by `{{H6342}}`, is a primitive root signifying a startled reaction to a sudden alarm. It is broadly used to mean to fear, be afraid, stand in awe, or to make shake. It appears **25 times** across **25 unique verses** in the Bible, illustrating a spectrum of fear from terror to reverence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H6342}}` describes various forms of fear. It can refer to the dread of earthly troubles, as when Job states, "the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me" [[Job 3:25]]. It is also the fear of human opposition, as when Israel is chastised for fearing "the fury of the oppressor" instead of God their maker [[Isaiah 51:13]]. Conversely, `{{H6342}}` is used to express a profound awe and reverence toward God and His word. The psalmist declares, "my heart standeth in awe of thy word" [[Psalms 119:161]]. This term can even describe a trembling response to God's immense goodness, as when the nations "shall fear and tremble for all the goodness" He provides [[Jeremiah 33:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nuances of fear and awe:
* `{{H3372}}` **yârêʼ** (to fear; morally, to revere): This word is often used in parallel with **pâchad**. In [[Psalms 27:1]], the psalmist asks, "whom shall I fear (yârêʼ)? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid (pâchad)?", using both terms to express confidence in God.
* `{{H2729}}` **chârad** (to shudder with terror; hence, to fear): This term often indicates a more intense, physical reaction. In [[Isaiah 19:16]], Egypt "shall be afraid (chârad) and fear (pâchad)" because of the Lord's power, showing a progression into deep terror.
* `{{H7264}}` **râgaz** (to quiver... tremble, trouble): This word emphasizes a violent emotional or physical shaking. It is paired with **pâchad** in [[Jeremiah 33:9]], where nations will "fear (pâchad) and tremble (râgaz)," highlighting the physical manifestation of overwhelming awe.
* `{{H7461}}` **raʻad** (a shudder; trembling): This noun describes the state of trembling caused by fear. It is used to characterize the state of sinners in Zion who "are afraid (pâchad); fearfulness (raʻad) hath surprised the hypocrites" [[Isaiah 33:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6342}}` is significant, often serving as a spiritual indicator.
* **Response to God's Word:** A heart in right standing with God responds with awe to His commands. While the psalmist's heart stands in awe of God's word [[Psalms 119:161]], a sign of rebellion is when King Jehoiakim and his servants heard the divine prophecies and "were not afraid" [[Jeremiah 36:24]].
* **Fear as Consequence or Blessing:** The experience of **pâchad** can be a curse or a blessing. For the disobedient, life is a state of constant fear [[Deuteronomy 28:66]]. For the wise, however, a continual, reverential fear is a source of happiness: "Happy is the man that feareth (pâchad) alway" [[Proverbs 28:14]].
* **Awe in Response to Goodness:** The term is not limited to negative contexts. It can describe the proper response to God's magnificent works of salvation and provision. Upon seeing God's blessings, "thine heart shall fear (pâchad), and be enlarged" [[Isaiah 60:5]], indicating an awe that expands one's capacity for joy.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6342}}` is a dynamic word that captures a range of human experience, from the terror of the sinner [[Isaiah 33:14]] to the reverential awe of the faithful [[Psalms 119:161]]. It contrasts the paralyzing fear of man and circumstance with the life-giving fear of the Lord. Whether describing the dread of judgment or the trembling awe before divine goodness, **pâchad** consistently points to the profound impact of God's presence and power on the human heart.
TRV