Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies because it reveals the depth and context of the original scriptures. The Greek word ἔντρομος (entromos) is particularly significant as it conveys the sense of being “trembling,” “terrified,” or “in awe.” This adjective often describes a physical and emotional reaction to encountering something overwhelming, whether divine, fearful, or awe-inspiring. In New Testament contexts, ἔντρομος is used to express reactions to divine encounters or extraordinary events, giving us insight into the emotional states and cultural perceptions of early believers and ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἔντρομος (entromos) [EN-troh-mos]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings: Derived from ἐν (en, “in”) + τρέμω (tremō, “to tremble”), meaning “trembling within” or “filled with fear.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective. It follows regular Greek adjective declension patterns.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Trembling — physically shaking or quaking, often due to fear or awe.
• Terrified — filled with intense fear or dread.
• Awe-struck — overwhelmed by a sense of wonder or reverence, especially in a religious or spiritual context.

Similar Words: φοβέω (phobeō) [foh-BEH-o], which means “to fear” or “to be afraid,” focuses more on the emotion of fear itself rather than the physical reaction. τρόμος (tromos) [TROH-mos], meaning “trembling” or “quake,” is a noun form that emphasizes the physical action without the adjective’s additional connotations of awe or reverence.

Further Insights: ἔντρομος is an adjective that vividly captures both the physical and emotional reactions to fear, awe, or reverence. The word can be applied to various contexts, such as divine encounters, powerful speeches, or natural phenomena that provoke a profound response. Its flexibility allows it to convey subtle nuances depending on the context, such as the trembling of a person before a divine being or the trembling caused by fear of judgment.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἔντρομος is defined as “trembling” or “terrified,” often used in the context of divine encounters or extraordinary events that elicit a profound physical response. It is noted for its use in describing both awe-filled reverence and overwhelming fear.

Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἔντρομος as “trembling” or “afraid,” emphasizing the word’s use in situations where a person is struck with a deep sense of fear or respect. It highlights the dual aspect of physical trembling and emotional awe.

Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary defines ἔντρομος as “trembling with fear or awe,” pointing out that it is used in contexts that describe reactions to the divine or supernatural, suggesting both a physical and spiritual response.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon describes ἔντρομος as “trembling” or “shivering,” noting its application in both literal and figurative contexts to describe states of fear, reverence, or overwhelming awe.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s concordance lists ἔντρομος as “trembling” or “terrified,” often used in the New Testament to depict reactions to divine manifestations or significant events that provoke both fear and reverence.

Scripture References

• Acts 7:32 – “I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled (ἔντρομος), and durst not behold.”
• Acts 16:29 – “Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling (ἔντρομος), and fell down before Paul and Silas.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἔντρομος (G1790: entromos)

ἔντρομος (entromos) is a Greek adjective meaning “trembling,” “terrified,” or “awe-struck.” It is significant in Biblical studies and classical literature for its descriptive power in conveying the physical and emotional reactions to fear, awe, or reverence. This word captures both the intense physical response of trembling and the emotional state of being overwhelmed by fear or awe. In the New Testament, ἔντρομος is used to describe reactions to divine encounters, emphasizing the profound impact these experiences had on individuals, making it an essential term for understanding the emotional and spiritual dimensions of early Christian experiences.

Did You Know?

The concept of ἔντρομος goes beyond simple fear; it often conveys a mixture of awe and reverence in the face of something greater than oneself. In ancient Greek culture, trembling before the gods or powerful leaders was seen as a sign of deep respect or recognition of authority. In Christian texts, this trembling takes on a spiritual dimension, reflecting a profound awareness of the divine presence and the weight of spiritual truth, which can lead to both fear and worship.