Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words can unlock deeper meanings within the Scriptures. The Greek word θαμβέω (thambeō) is particularly significant due to its expressive nature in conveying astonishment or amazement. This word appears in key New Testament passages where the reactions of people to miraculous events or profound teachings are highlighted. Exploring θαμβέω helps us understand the cultural context and emotional depth of ancient Greek literature and its relevance in the biblical narrative.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: θαμβέω (thambeō), pronounced [tham-BEH-o].
• Etymology: Derived from the root word θαμβός (thambos), meaning “amazement” or “astonishment.”
• Part of Speech: Verb. It primarily appears in the present, imperfect, and aorist tenses.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To be amazed or astonished.
• To be struck with awe.
• To be bewildered or confounded.

Similar Words: ἐκπλήσσω (ekplēssō), pronounced [ek-PLAYS-so], also means “to amaze” or “to astonish,” but it often carries a sense of shock or being struck mentally. θαμβέω (thambeō) focuses more on the profound sense of wonder or marvel, often associated with witnessing something extraordinary or miraculous.

Further Insights: θαμβέω (thambeō) is a verb that appears in contexts where a strong emotional response is described, such as amazement at miracles or teachings. This word reflects the dynamic reactions of people in the ancient world, providing a vivid picture of how extraordinary events impacted their beliefs and understanding. It is conjugated primarily in the present, imperfect, and aorist tenses, and the table below shows its full declension in the present indicative:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: θαμβέω (thambeō) is defined as “to be astonished” or “to be amazed.” It notes that the word is often used in contexts where something supernatural or unexpected has occurred, leading to a profound emotional response.

Thayers: Thayer’s Lexicon describes θαμβέω (thambeō) as expressing a “state of amazement,” often in reaction to divine acts or teachings that provoke awe or wonder. It emphasizes the emotional impact of the word in the New Testament narratives.

Vines: Vine’s Expository Dictionary connects θαμβέω (thambeō) with the idea of being “struck with amazement.” Vine’s highlights its usage in passages where Jesus’s actions or words cause people to be “beside themselves” with wonder.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon explains θαμβέω (thambeō) as “to be in amazement” or “to marvel.” It identifies its roots in classical Greek literature, where it is used to describe reactions to unexpected or impressive events.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance lists θαμβέω (thambeō) under G2284, indicating that it is derived from θαμβός (thambos) and is used to describe being in a state of amazement or astonishment.

Related Scripture References

• Mark 1:27: “They were all amazed [θαμβεθέντες], so that they debated among themselves, saying, ‘What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.'”
• Mark 10:24: “The disciples were amazed [θαμβοῦνται] at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, ‘Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!'”
• Luke 4:36: “And amazement [θαμβοῦς] came upon them all, and they began talking with one another saying, ‘What is this message? For with authority and power He commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.'”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Usage

Summary of θαμβέω (G2284: thambeō)

θαμβέω (thambeō) is a Greek verb that means “to be amazed” or “to be astonished.” It appears in the New Testament to describe the profound reactions of people witnessing miracles or hearing the authoritative teachings of Jesus. The word captures the emotional depth of these experiences, revealing the impact of divine encounters on individuals in biblical narratives. With its roots in classical Greek literature, θαμβέω (thambeō) also connects the cultural expressions of amazement across different contexts, from everyday experiences to philosophical reflections on reality.

Did You Know?

• θαμβέω (thambeō) is related to the noun θαμβός (thambos), which is often used in ancient Greek to describe a “dumbfounded” or “bewildered” state of mind.
• The word is used sparingly in the New Testament but always in connection with events that provoke wonder, such as miraculous healings or profound teachings.
• In classical Greek literature, θαμβέω (thambeō) often describes the awe or fear that arises from divine or supernatural encounters.

This comprehensive overview of θαμβέω (thambeō) illustrates its importance in biblical studies and highlights its relevance in understanding ancient Greek culture and the emotional dynamics of the New Testament.