Strong’s G4426: A verb meaning “to frighten, terrify, or intimidate,” originally used of startled horses. In the New Testament, appears in Philippians in the passive form, encouraging believers not to be frightened by opponents. Metaphorically represents steadfast faith amid opposition.

U- Unveiling the Word

πτύρω originally described the startled reaction of horses but developed broader meaning for any kind of intimidation or frightening. In its sole New Testament appearance, Paul uses it to encourage the Philippians to stand firm against opposition without being startled or intimidated. The word carries special significance in contexts of persecution and resistance to intimidation. Early church fathers often referenced this term when discussing Christian courage in the face of persecution. Today, it continues to speak to believers about maintaining composure and faith despite intimidating circumstances.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πτύρω, pturo, /ptoo-ro/
• Detailed pronunciation: p-TOO-roh (with initial ‘p’ pronounced)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Root: πτύρω (unknown precise origin)
• Possible relation to πτοέω (to terrify)
• No prefixes or suffixes
• Originally an onomatopoeic word imitating the snorting of frightened horses

D – Defining Meanings

• To frighten or startle
• To intimidate
• To cause to flee in terror

For compound words: Not a compound word

Translation Options:

• “To be frightened” – Most common translation
• “To be startled” – Captures sudden nature of the fear
• “To be intimidated” – Emphasizes the social pressure aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• πτοέω (ptoeo) /pto-eh-oh/ – “to terrify” – See G4422
• φοβέω (phobeo) /fob-eh-oh/ – “to fear” – See G5399
• ταράσσω (tarasso) /tar-as-so/ – “to trouble” – See G5015

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, πτύρω exhibits:

• Tense: Present, Future, Aorist
• Voice: Active, Passive
• Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Imperative
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Continuous (Present), Punctiliar (Aorist)

Examples:

• Present Passive: πτύρομαι (I am frightened)
• Present Passive Participle: πτυρόμενοι (being frightened)
• Aorist Passive: ἐπτύρθην (I was frightened)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use regarding intimidation by opponents. Thayer’s notes its origin in describing frightened horses. LSJ documents its development from specific to general usage. Vine’s connects it to standing firm in faith. Strong’s emphasizes the aspect of intimidation. Moulton and Milligan cite examples from papyri describing reactions to threats. LEH discusses its use in contexts of persecution.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Philippians 1:28 “And in nothing terrified [πτυρόμενοι] by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.”

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

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

πτύρω powerfully reminds us that Christian faith includes standing firm against intimidation. Paul’s use of this word encourages believers that steadfastness in the face of opposition is a sign of salvation. It proclaims the good news that in Christ, we need not be startled or intimidated by opposition, for our salvation is secure in Him who has overcome the world.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word’s origin in horse training influenced military terminology about maintaining formation under pressure.
2. Early Christian martyrs were often described as being free from πτύρω in face of threats.
3. The term influenced development of Christian vocabulary about spiritual warfare.

Strong’s G4426: A verb meaning “to frighten, terrify, or intimidate,” originally used of startled horses. In the New Testament, appears in Philippians in the passive form, encouraging believers not to be frightened by opponents. Metaphorically represents steadfast faith amid opposition.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: fear, intimidation, persecution, courage, steadfastness, opposition, Christian persecution, spiritual warfare, faith, persecution response, Christian courage, standing firm