NAS Word Usage – Total: 1

1. quite astonished, amazed
2. terrifying, dreadful
3. wonder or marvel greatly

The Literal Meaning of Ekthambos

In Greek, the word “ekthambos” (ἐκθαμβος) can be translated directly to mean “greatly astonished,” “awestruck,” or “terrified.” The word combines “ek,” meaning “out of” or “from,” and “thambos,” which conveys a sense of wonder or amazement that can border on fear.

This compound word reflects an intense emotional state where an individual is overwhelmed by an experience, either divine or supernatural, beyond regular human expectation.

Ekthambos in the New Testament

Ekthambos appears a few times in the New Testament, and each instance offers a unique glimpse into its significance.

Mark 9:15

In Mark 9:15, we read: “As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with wonder (ekthambos) and ran to greet him.”

Here, the crowd experiences ekthambos upon seeing Jesus. This moment underscores the magnificent and awe-inspiring presence of Jesus. The reaction of the crowd emphasizes that Jesus was not merely an ordinary man but someone who invoked profound amazement and respect.

Mark 16:5

Another pivotal example is in Mark 16:5: “As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed (ekthambos).”

This verse describes the women who came to Jesus’s tomb and found it empty, encountering an angel instead. Their emotional reaction of ekthambos encapsulates both fear and astonishment, highlighting the supernatural nature of the event and the presence of divine beings.

Luke 1:12

In Luke 1:12, ekthambos is used again: “When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear (ekthambos).”

This instance occurs when Zechariah, a priest, encounters the angel Gabriel in the temple. The profound mix of fear and awe illustrates the overwhelming reaction humans often experience when confronted with heavenly messengers.

Ekthambos as a Reflection of Divine Encounters

The usage of ekthambos in these New Testament passages serves to illustrate the overwhelming nature of divine encounters. Whether it is the presence of Jesus, an empty tomb with an angel, or an angelic appearance in the temple, ekthambos captures the human response to the extraordinary. It’s an emotion that sits at the intersection of fear and reverence, a recognition of something far greater than ordinary human experience.

Emotional Nuances of Ekthambos

Ekthambos does not merely imply simple amazement or fear; it connotes a deeper, more complex emotional response. This word carries layers of meaning:

1. Awe and Reverence: The presence of the divine or holy often evokes a sense of awe. In the biblical context, encountering Jesus or an angel would overwhelm people with reverence for the divine power and purity they witnessed.
2. Shock and Astonishment: Ekthambos also includes an element of shock. Seeing an angel or witnessing a miracle is an event that defies mundane reality, causing an intense reaction of surprise and disbelief.
3. Fear and Trembling: There is often a component of fear involved. The sacred and supernatural can be intimidating and cause physical and emotional responses such as trembling or feeling faint.

By exploring these emotional nuances, we can appreciate the depth of human reactions in biblical stories. The word ekthambos helps depict the profound human experience of encountering the divine.

Ekthambos in Historical and Cultural Context

When examining ekthambos, it is crucial to also understand the historical and cultural context of the Bible. In the ancient world, divine encounters and supernatural events were perceived with a mix of fear and reverence. The response to these events was often one of ekthambos, where the boundaries between human and divine were momentarily dissolved, leaving individuals profoundly moved and transformed.

Comparison with Other Greek Words for Fear and Amazement

It is also fascinating to compare ekthambos with other Greek words expressing fear and amazement, such as “phobos” (fear) and “thaumazo” (to wonder). While “phobos” primarily connotes fear, and “thaumazo” focuses on wonder or admiration, “ekthambos” uniquely blends these emotions into a powerful reaction to the divine.

Literary Usage in Non-Biblical Texts

In non-biblical Greek literature, ekthambos is used similarly to convey the intense response to supernatural phenomena or gods. Greek tragedies, for example, often depict characters who experience ekthambos when confronted by the gods or fate, adding to the richness of this word’s connotations.

Theological Implications of Ekthambos

Theologically, ekthambos invites readers to reflect on their own responses to the divine. It challenges individuals to consider the appropriate emotional posture when encountering God or witnessing miraculous events. The biblical use of ekthambos serves as a model for reverence, humility, and the recognition of divine majesty.

Encounters with the Divine in Modern Faith

For modern readers, the concept of ekthambos can still hold significant value. Experiencing a sense of wonder and reverence in the presence of God, whether through prayer, worship, or personal spiritual experiences, can deepen one’s faith and lead to a richer relationship with the divine.

Spiritual Growth and Ekthambos

Embracing the emotional spectrum of ekthambos can also foster spiritual growth. It encourages believers to approach their faith with awe and humility, acknowledging the greatness of God and the limitations of human understanding.

Ekthambos and Personal Reflection

Reflecting on moments when we have felt ekthambos can provide insights into our spiritual journeys. Whether through witnessing a natural wonder, experiencing a profound moment in worship, or encountering an unexpected answer to prayer, these instances can inspire a deeper reverence for the divine.

Journaling and Prayer

One practical way to explore ekthambos in our own lives is through journaling and prayer. By recording and reflecting on moments of awe and wonder, we can become more attuned to the presence of God in our daily lives and cultivate a spirit of gratitude and reverence.

Community Sharing

Sharing experiences of ekthambos within a faith community can also enrich communal worship and understanding. By hearing others’ stories of encountering the divine, we can encourage one another and build a collective sense of awe and reverence.

Conclusion

In the context of the Bible, ekthambos is a powerful word that captures the profound human response to the divine. It encompasses a range of emotions from awe to fear, reflecting the intensity of encounters with God and the supernatural. By exploring the meaning and usage of ekthambos, we gain a deeper understanding of biblical narratives and are invited to approach our own faith with a sense of wonder and reverence. Thus, ekthambos is more than just a reaction; it is an invitation to recognize and honor the divine presence in our lives.