Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for unlocking deeper meanings in the Scriptures. The Greek word θάμβος (thambos) is particularly significant as it conveys the strong emotion of awe, astonishment, or amazement. This word is often used in the New Testament to describe the reactions of people who witnessed the miraculous works of Jesus or heard His profound teachings. The word θάμβος helps us appreciate the cultural and emotional context of ancient Greek culture and provides insight into the narratives of the New Testament.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: θάμβος (thambos), pronounced [THAHM-bos].
• Etymology: The word derives from an earlier Greek root that implies being stunned or struck with awe. It is related to the verb θαμβέω (thambeō), meaning “to be amazed.”
• Part of Speech: Noun (neuter), often appearing in the singular form.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Astonishment or amazement.
• Awe or wonder, particularly in response to something unexpected or supernatural.
• Bewilderment or confusion in the face of something extraordinary.

Similar Words: ἔκπληξις (ekplēxis), pronounced [ek-PLAYK-sis], also means “amazement” or “astonishment,” but it often carries a sense of sudden shock or surprise. In contrast, θάμβος (thambos) emphasizes a prolonged state of being awestruck, particularly in response to divine or miraculous events.

Further Insights: θάμβος (thambos) is a neuter noun that captures the intensity of being struck with awe. It is used in contexts that describe extraordinary occurrences or profound teachings that leave people in a state of wonder. The noun is often used in the nominative or accusative case in the New Testament. Below is the declension of θάμβος (thambos) in the singular form:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: θάμβος (thambos) is defined as “amazement” or “astonishment,” and is often associated with the reaction to divine interventions or revelations. It is used to depict a state of awe that encompasses both fear and wonder.

Thayers: Thayer’s Lexicon describes θάμβος (thambos) as the “state of being stunned with amazement,” particularly highlighting its use in narratives where individuals are deeply moved or overwhelmed by what they see or hear.

Vines: Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words interprets θάμβος (thambos) as “amazement” and connects it with the root idea of being in a “dumbfounded” or “bewildered” state, especially in response to miraculous occurrences.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon identifies θάμβος (thambos) as a term for “amazement” or “astonishment.” It notes that in classical Greek, the word is used to describe the reaction to wonders or marvels that defy normal understanding.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance links θάμβος (thambos) with the idea of being struck with awe, referencing its usage in the New Testament to depict emotional responses to divine or unexpected acts.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 5:9: “For amazement [θάμβος] had seized him and all his companions because of the catch of fish which they had taken.”
• Acts 3:10: “And they were filled with wonder and amazement [θάμβος] at what had happened to him.”
• Luke 4:36: “And amazement [θάμβος] came upon them all, and they began talking with one another saying, ‘What is this message?'”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Usage

Summary of θάμβος (G2285: thambos)

θάμβος (thambos) is a Greek noun that conveys the emotion of astonishment or amazement. It appears in the New Testament to describe the deep sense of awe that people experienced in response to the miracles and teachings of Jesus. This word captures a profound emotional state that goes beyond mere surprise, reflecting a deeper, more reflective amazement often connected with divine or supernatural events. In classical Greek literature, θάμβος (thambos) is similarly used to depict reactions to wonders and marvels, thereby connecting its biblical use to a broader cultural context.

Did You Know?

• θάμβος (thambos) is related to the verb θαμβέω (thambeō), which describes the action of being amazed or struck with awe.
• The word is frequently used in contexts involving divine encounters or miracles, emphasizing the overwhelming nature of such experiences.
• In the Septuagint, θάμβος (thambos) is often employed to describe the response of people to God’s mighty acts, highlighting its deep emotional and theological connotations.

This comprehensive overview of θάμβος (thambos) provides valuable insights into its importance in biblical studies and its role in conveying the emotional depth of both New Testament and classical Greek literature.