NAS Word Usage – Total: 2

1. stricken with fear or terror, exceedingly, frightened, terrified

What is the Meaning of Ekphobos?

“Ekphobos” is a Greek word that is often translated as “terrified” or “filled with fear.” The word itself is composed of two parts: “ek,” meaning “out of” or “from,” and “phobos,” meaning “fear” or “terror.” When combined, “ekphobos” intensifies the notion of fear, referring to a state of being utterly terrified or struck with awe to the point of being overwhelmed. Essentially, it conveys an intense, almost paralyzing kind of fear or astonishment.

Where is Ekphobos Found in the Bible?

“Ekphobos” appears in various books and contexts within the New Testament. Here are a few notable examples:

1. Mark 4:41 – “They were filled with great fear (ekphobos), and said to one another, ‘Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?'” In this passage, the disciples express their overwhelming fear and awe at Jesus’ ability to calm the storm. The use of “ekphobos” conveys their mixture of terror and profound respect.
2. Hebrews 12:21 – “Indeed, so terrifying (ekphobos) was the sight that Moses said, ‘I tremble with fear.'” Here, the writer of Hebrews recalls the overwhelming fear Moses felt in the presence of God at Mount Sinai, highlighting the intense, awe-inspiring nature of the divine encounter.

The Cultural and Theological Context of Ekphobos

In the cultural context of the ancient Greeks, “ekphobos” was not an everyday term. It carried a heavy implication, generally associated with experiences that were beyond normal comprehension—events or phenomena that induced a deep sense of awe, dread, or emotional upheaval.

Ekphobos in the Context of Divine Encounter

One primary context in the Bible where “ekphobos” is used is in encounters with the divine or miraculous events. Fear in these instances is not merely about being scared but is an emotional and spiritual reaction to experiencing the divine power and majesty of God. This kind of fear is often seen as a profound respect or reverence for God’s authority and magnificence.

For example, when the disciples witness Jesus calming the storm, their terror (“ekphobos”) is not simple fear but is also mixed with awe and reverence. This magnetic awe respects the extraordinary capacity and divine nature they witness in Jesus. Similarly, the fear Moses feels at Mount Sinai comes from realizing the vastly powerful and sacred presence of God.

Ekphobos and Human Frailty

The use of “ekphobos” also exposes human vulnerability and limitations in the face of divine power. In encounters where people in the Bible feel “ekphobos,” there’s a consistent theme of human weakness and unworthiness when contrasted with the divine. Such encounters illustrate the gulf between human and divine and emphasize a need for humility and reverence.

Ekphobos as a Catalyst for Deeper Faith

Fear as denoted by “ekphobos” may serve as a spiritual catalyst. Rather than leading to simple fright, it encourages believers to delve deeper into their faith. Recognizing their limitations and the overwhelming power of God often propels them to trust Him more fully, leaning on divine wisdom rather than their understanding.

How Should We Understand Ekphobos Today?

Today, the concept of being “ekphobos” can provide valuable insights into our relationship with God. It challenges modern readers to consider their own reactions to God’s omnipotence and majesty. Do we feel a sense of awe and respect when contemplating the divine? Does our recognition of God’s power drive us to deeper faith?

“Ekphobos” encourages us to embrace a reverence that is profoundly respectful and awe-inspired. It’s about recognizing that God’s power is far beyond human capacity and allowing that recognition to deepen our spiritual walk. With this understanding, we can appreciate the gravity of divine events and the power they hold over human life.

Conclusion

Understanding “ekphobos” in the context of the Bible allows us to appreciate the profound responses biblical figures had to divine encounters. This powerful term goes beyond ordinary fear—it encompasses awe, reverence, and an acknowledgment of human frailty in the face of God’s overwhelming power. By embracing this biblical concept, modern believers can deepen their faith and reverence for God, recognizing the majesty and authority that define the divine.

As we study the Bible, being aware of terms like “ekphobos” enriches our scriptural insights. It provides a clearer picture of the emotional and spiritual reactions to God’s presence and deeds, encouraging a profound sense of awe and respect that can transform our faith journey.