Brief Overview of πτόησις (Strong’s G4423: ptoesis)

Strong’s G4423: A feminine noun meaning “intimidation” or “terror,” derived from πτοέω (to terrify). Used in 1 Peter to encourage Christian wives not to give in to fear. Represents a state of intimidation or terror that could compromise one’s faith or proper conduct.

U- Unveiling the Word

πτόησις represents not just momentary fear but a state of intimidation or terror that could affect behavior and decision-making. In its sole New Testament appearance, Peter uses it while addressing Christian wives, encouraging them not to let fear dictate their actions. The word carries particular significance in the context of maintaining faithful Christian conduct despite intimidating circumstances. Early church fathers often referenced this term when discussing Christian courage in the face of persecution or social pressure. Today, it continues to speak to believers about maintaining faith and proper conduct despite intimidating circumstances or social pressures.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πτόησις, ptoesis, /pto-ay-sis/
• Detailed pronunciation: p-TOH-ay-sis (with initial ‘p’ pronounced)
• Part of Speech: Noun (feminine)

Etymology:

• Root: πτοέω (ptoeo) – “to terrify”
• Suffix: -σις (-sis) – forms abstract nouns of action or result
• Forms the abstract noun from the verbal action
• Indicates the state or condition of being terrified

D – Defining Meanings

• State of terror
• Intimidation
• Fearful state of mind

For compound words: Not a compound word

Translation Options:

• “Terror” – Captures the intensity of the emotion
• “Intimidation” – Emphasizes the social pressure aspect
• “Frightening influence” – Expresses the ongoing nature of the fear

E – Exploring Similar Words

• φόβος (phobos) /fob-os/ – “fear” – See G5401
• δειλία (deilia) /day-lee-ah/ – “timidity” – See G1167
• πτοέω (ptoeo) /pto-eh-oh/ – “to terrify” – See G4422

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a feminine noun of the third declension, πτόησις exhibits:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular and Plural
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: Third

Examples of morphological changes:

• Nominative: ἡ πτόησις (the terror)
• Genitive: τῆς πτοήσεως (of the terror)
• Dative: τῇ πτοήσει (by/with the terror)
• Accusative: τὴν πτόησιν (the terror)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in contexts of intimidation affecting behavior. Thayer’s connects it to the state of being terrified. LSJ documents its use in classical literature for panic and terror. Vine’s highlights its connection to intimidation in social contexts. Strong’s relates it to alarm or fright. Moulton and Milligan cite examples from papyri describing states of fear. LEH discusses its appearance in the Septuagint regarding fear of enemies.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
1 Peter 3:6 “Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any terror [πτόησιν].”

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

πτόησις reminds us that faith in Christ empowers us to overcome intimidation and fear. Peter’s use of this word encourages believers to maintain faithful conduct despite pressures to compromise. It proclaims the good news that in Christ, we need not be controlled by fear or intimidation, for His perfect love casts out fear and enables us to live faithfully regardless of circumstances.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word was often used in ancient texts to describe the paralyzing effect of fear on armies.
2. Early Christian martyrs were celebrated for their freedom from πτόησις in face of death.
3. The term influenced early Christian teachings about maintaining composure under persecution.

Strong’s G4423: A feminine noun meaning “intimidation” or “terror,” derived from πτοέω (to terrify). Used in 1 Peter to encourage Christian wives not to give in to fear. Represents a state of intimidation or terror that could compromise one’s faith or proper conduct.

Part of speech: Noun (feminine)

Tags: fear, terror, intimidation, persecution, courage, Christian conduct, social pressure, faith, persecution, spiritual warfare, emotional state, Christian marriage