Terrifying Signs: φόβητρον (Strong’s G5400: phobētron) Reveals End-Time Phenomena

Strong’s G5400: A rare noun derived from φοβέω (phobeō), φόβητρον denotes something that causes terror or fear, particularly supernatural or cosmic phenomena that inspire dread. In Luke’s eschatological discourse, it specifically refers to frightening celestial signs preceding the Messiah’s return.

U- Unveiling the Word

φόβητρον (phobētron) embodies the concept of terror-inducing signs, specifically in an eschatological context. This powerful noun captures the essence of phenomena so extraordinary that they inspire deep fear and awe in observers. In Luke’s Gospel, it appears in the context of the Messiah’s discourse about the end times, where cosmic disturbances serve as divine signals. The early church understood these φόβητρα (plural) as supernatural manifestations that would herald the Lord’s return. Today, this word reminds us that creation itself will testify to God’s sovereignty and the approaching day of the Lord, causing both reverent fear and hopeful anticipation among believers.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: φόβητρον, phobētron, /foh-BAY-tron/
• Detailed pronunciation: foh (as in “foe”) – BAY (as in “bay”) – tron (as in “strong”)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• φοβέω (phobeō) – root verb meaning “to fear” or “to terrify”
• -τρον (-tron) – instrumental suffix indicating means or instrument
• Combined meaning: “that which causes fear” or “an instrument of terror”

D – Defining Meanings

• A terrifying sight or object
• A fearsome omen or sign
• A supernatural phenomenon inspiring dread

For compound words:
The root φοβέω provides the core meaning of fear or terror, while the suffix -τρον indicates the instrumental nature, showing that this is something that produces or causes fear.

Translation Options:

• “Terror-causing sign” – emphasizes its role as an active producer of fear
• “Frightful omen” – captures the predictive nature in eschatological contexts
• “Fearsome phenomenon” – reflects its supernatural character

E – Exploring Similar Words

• φόβος (phobos) /FOH-bos/ – general fear or terror See G5401
• δειλία (deilia) /day-LEE-ah/ – cowardice or timidity See G1167
• τέρας (teras) /TEH-ras/ – wonder, portent See G5059

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Noun Features:

• Case: Nominative/Accusative
• Number: Singular (plural: φόβητρα)
• Gender: Neuter
• Declension: Second

The neuter gender and second declension classification affect how φόβητρον changes in different grammatical contexts. For example:

• Nominative/Accusative singular: φόβητρον
• Genitive singular: φοβήτρου
• Dative singular: φοβήτρῳ

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The major lexicons provide fascinating insights into φόβητρον. BDAG emphasizes its connection to supernatural phenomena that inspire terror. Thayer’s highlights its unique appearance in Luke’s eschatological discourse. LSJ provides examples from classical literature where it denotes objects or events that cause terror. Vine’s notes its instrumental nature as something that produces fear. Strong’s connects it to the broader word family of φόβος. LEH provides Septuagint parallels where similar terms describe divine manifestations. Moulton and Milligan cite papyri evidence showing its use in describing ominous signs in nature.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Luke 21:11: “There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors [φόβητρα] and great signs from heaven.”

Additional References:
As a hapax legomenon (occurring only once), φόβητρον appears only in Luke 21:11.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

φόβητρον stands as a powerful reminder that the Messiah’s return will be accompanied by unmistakable signs that inspire both fear and awe. This rare word appears at a crucial moment in Luke’s Gospel, emphasizing that creation itself will herald the Lord’s return. The good news embedded in these frightening phenomena is that they signal the approaching fulfillment of God’s promises – when King Jesus will return to establish His eternal kingdom. These signs serve not merely to terrify but to awaken humanity to the reality of divine sovereignty and the need for preparation.

D – Did You Know?

• φόβητρον is a hapax legomenon in the New Testament, appearing only once
• The plural form φόβητρα suggests multiple types of terrifying signs
• Ancient Greek mystery religions used the term for objects designed to inspire religious awe

Strong’s G5400: A rare noun derived from φοβέω (phobeō), φόβητρον denotes something that causes terror or fear, particularly supernatural or cosmic phenomena that inspire dread. In Luke’s eschatological discourse, it specifically refers to frightening celestial signs preceding the Messiah’s return.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: end times, signs, wonders, fear, terror, heaven, eschatology, Luke, prophecy, second coming, celestial phenomena, divine manifestation​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​