Etymology and Semantic Analysis
The term ‘fear’ in the Bible is primarily translated from the Hebrew word ‘ירא’ (yare’) in the Old Testament and the Greek ‘φόβος’ (phobos) in the New Testament. In Hebrew, ‘ירא’ encompasses both fear in the sense of terror and reverence or awe, particularly in the context of fear of God. This dual connotation is evident in verses such as Deuteronomy 10:12, where it is associated with serving and loving God, and Psalm 2:11, where it combines with joy. In the New Testament, ‘φόβος’ often carries a similar dual meaning, reflecting fear as both reverence and dread. Notable examples include Matthew 14:26, where the disciples are terrified by Jesus walking on water, and 1 Peter 2:17, which commands the fear of God. The semantic range of these words reveals a complex interplay between fear as an emotional response to danger and as a deep respect for God’s authority and power.
Commentary and Exegesis
In biblical exegesis, understanding the concept of fear is crucial for interpreting texts where this emotion is attributed to human or divine actions. For example, in Luke 1:50, ‘φόβος’ is used in the context of God’s mercy extending to those who fear Him, indicating reverence and piety. The Hebrew ‘ירא’ in Proverbs 1:7 – “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” – highlights the notion that fear, in the sense of awe and respect for God, is foundational to wisdom.
Various Translations
Comparing the King James Version (KJV) with other translations highlights nuances in the interpretation of ‘fear.’ The KJV often uses ‘fear’ where modern translations might use ‘revere’ or ‘awe,’ reflecting a shift in language usage over time. For instance, the New International Version translates Psalm 111:10 as “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,” whereas the English Standard Version renders it as, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,” maintaining the reverence aspect.
Grammatical Study
Grammatically, ‘fear’ as a noun in English aligns with its counterparts in Hebrew and Greek. In Hebrew, ‘ירא’ often appears in construct forms, linking it with its object, usually God, as in ‘fear of the Lord.’ The Greek ‘φόβος’ functions similarly, with its usage often dependent on its object or context, distinguishing between a general sense of fear and the specific fear or reverence of God. This grammatical construction in both Hebrew and Greek underscores the relational aspect of fear, tying it closely to the object that elicits this emotion or respect.
Syntax
In both Hebrew and Greek, the syntax surrounding ‘fear’ (ירא, φόβος) often involves its pairing with verbs of action or emotion, indicating a response or attitude towards the object of fear. This construction emphasizes the relational aspect of fear, whether it be towards God, individuals, or situations.
Historical Context
Historically, the concept of fear in the biblical context was deeply intertwined with cultural perceptions of divinity and morality. In ancient Israel and the early Christian communities, fear of God was considered a fundamental aspect of religious life, signifying respect, obedience, and piety. This understanding reflects a broader ancient Near Eastern context where fear of gods was a common theme, underscoring the omnipotence and transcendence of the divine.
Biblical Narrative and Typological Analysis
In the narrative arc of the Bible, ‘fear’ plays a pivotal role in various typologies. For example, the fear of the Israelites at Sinai (Exodus 20:18-20) serves as a typological precursor to the reverential fear encouraged in the wisdom literature (Proverbs 1:7). New Testament typology shifts the focus towards a reverential fear of God as part of the Christian ethos (Acts 9:31).
Theological and Symbolic Interpretations
Theologically, ‘fear’ in the Bible symbolizes a range of concepts from judgment and divine majesty to wisdom and moral instruction. It encapsulates the human response to the divine, serving as a bridge between human experience and theological understanding. Symbolically, it often represents the beginning of spiritual wisdom and the acknowledgment of God’s absolute authority.
Practical Implications
Practically, the biblical concept of fear has implications for religious practice and ethical behavior. It encourages a stance of humility and respect towards God, fostering a mindset that prioritizes divine will and moral rectitude in personal and communal life.
References
Harris, R. L., Archer, G. L., & Waltke, B. K. (1980). Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament. Chicago: Moody Press.
Kittel, G., Friedrich, G., & Bromiley, G. W. (1964-1976). Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans.
Mounce, W. D. (2006). Mounce’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words. Grand Rapids: Zondervan.
Vine, W. E. (1940). Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words. Nashville: Thomas Nelson.