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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies provides a richer and more profound insight into the scriptures. The Greek word θαρσέω (tharseō) is particularly significant as it captures the essence of courage, boldness, and inner strength that the New Testament often encourages among believers. This term is not only relevant to understanding the context of the New Testament but also sheds light on ancient Greek culture’s emphasis on courage as a virtue. Studying the word θαρσέω helps us grasp how early Christians were exhorted to remain steadfast in their faith in challenging times.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: θαρσέω (tharseō), [thar-SEH-oh]
- Etymology: Derived from the root word θαρρέω (tharreō), which similarly means “to be of good courage” or “to be confident.”
- Part of Speech: Verb (present, active, indicative)
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To be of good courage, to be confident.
- To have a bold or courageous disposition.
- To take heart, especially in difficult or fearful situations.
Similar Words: θαρρέω (tharreō), [thar-REH-oh] – This word is very similar in meaning and is often used interchangeably with θαρσέω. Both verbs communicate the idea of courage, but θαρσέω can often emphasize more immediate exhortations to courage or encouragement in the face of adversity.
Further Insights: θαρσέω is a present active indicative verb, indicating an ongoing or continuous action of being courageous or taking heart. The word appears in various forms throughout the New Testament, predominantly in exhortations to maintain courage and not fear. Below is the conjugation of the verb in the present tense:
| Tense | Person | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|---|
| Present | 1st | θαρσέω | θαρσοῦμεν |
| Present | 2nd | θαρσεῖς | θαρσεῖτε |
| Present | 3rd | θαρσεῖ | θαρσοῦσι(ν) |
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek: Understanding Greek Grammar: A Beginner’s Guide.
Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Defines θαρσέω as “to be bold, to be of good courage.” The lexicon emphasizes its use in contexts where fear is present, urging the reader to “take heart” or “be encouraged.”
- Thayers: Explains θαρσέω as “to be of good courage” or “to be confident,” often associated with exhortations to bravery in the face of trials.
- Vines: Describes θαρσέω as encouraging strength and bravery, frequently appearing in New Testament contexts where believers are assured of God’s presence and support.
- LSJ: Notes θαρσέω as a verb meaning “to be bold, to dare,” a common word in both classical and Hellenistic Greek literature used to express confidence and courage.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines θαρσέω as “to have courage,” listing its occurrences in the New Testament where it often accompanies reassurances or commands not to fear.
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Related Scripture References
- Matthew 9:2: “And they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralytic, ‘Take courage [θάρσει], son; your sins are forgiven.'”
- Mark 6:50: “For they all saw Him and were terrified. But immediately He spoke with them and said to them, ‘Take courage [θαρσεῖτε]; it is I, do not be afraid.'”
- John 16:33: “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage [θαρσεῖτε]; I have overcome the world.”
- Acts 23:11: “But on the night immediately following, the Lord stood at his side and said, ‘Take courage [θάρσει]; for as you have solemnly witnessed to My cause at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also.'”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Phaedo | “Take courage (θαρσέω) and stand firm in what is just.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The generals, with courage (θαρσέω), addressed their troops.” |
| Sophocles | Oedipus Rex | “Be strong and take courage (θαρσέω) in the face of the unknown.” |
| Septuagint | Isaiah 35:4 | “Say to those with anxious heart, ‘Take courage (θαρσέω), fear not. Behold, your God will come…'” |
| Septuagint | Psalm 27:14 | “Wait for the Lord; be strong and let your heart take courage (θαρσέω); yes, wait for the Lord.” |
| Septuagint | Joshua 1:9 | “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous (θαρσέω); do not tremble or be dismayed.” |
Summary of θαρσέω (G2293: tharseō)
The Greek word θαρσέω (G2293: tharseō) is a powerful verb that conveys the act of being courageous, confident, or bold, particularly in the face of adversity or fear. This word is frequently used in the New Testament to encourage believers to “take heart” and trust in God’s power and faithfulness. Derived from a similar term, θαρρέω (tharreō), θαρσέω emphasizes immediate encouragement or exhortation to bravery. Its rich usage in both biblical and classical Greek literature reveals its timeless relevance as a word that speaks to human experiences of fear, faith, and courage.
Did You Know?
The verb θαρσέω is found in some of the most reassuring passages in the New Testament. Jesus Himself uses this word when calming His disciples during the storm, underscoring the importance of inner courage in the life of a believer. The word invites readers to not only face their fears but also to embrace a bold and trusting attitude, knowing that divine strength and support are ever-present.
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