Summary
Quick facts
- Strong’s Number
- G5141
- Original Word
- τρέμω
- Transliteration
- trémō
- Pronunciation
- trem'-o
- Part of Speech
- verb
- Root / Etymology
- strengthened from a primary (to "dread", "terrify");
- Frequency
- 4×
- Gematria
- 1245
Where it appears
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Definition
Strong 1890 to "tremble" or fear
be afraidtrembling
strengthened from a primary (to "dread", "terrify");

Commentary
Contributors: · · · ·
Strong's G5141: A verb meaning "to tremble" or "to quake with fear," tremo describes physical trembling often resulting from divine encounters or supernatural experiences. In the New Testament, it expresses both holy fear and reverential awe before God.
U- Unveiling the Word
The Greek word τρέμω (tremo) powerfully conveys physical trembling, often as a response to divine presence or supernatural encounters. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts where individuals experience overwhelming awe in the presence of God's power or authority. The word carries both physical and spiritual dimensions, expressing not just fear but also reverent submission. The early church fathers frequently used τρέμω when discussing proper responses to God's holiness and manifestations of His power. Today, this word continues to remind believers of the appropriate attitude of reverence and holy fear in approaching the divine presence.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
For compound words: Not applicable as τρέμω is a simple verb
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
φοβέομαι (phobeomai) [fo-BEH-oh-my] - to fear, be afraid - See G5399
σείω (seio) [SAY-oh] - to shake, agitate - See G4579
ἔντρομος (entromos) [EN-trom-os] - terrified, trembling - See G1790
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
The verb changes form based on usage:
S - Studying Lexicon Insights
Major lexicons provide rich insight into τρέμω's usage and significance. BDAG emphasizes its connection to divine encounters and supernatural experiences. Thayer's lexicon traces its development from physical trembling to spiritual awe. LSJ documents its use in classical Greek literature describing both physical and emotional responses. Vine's expands on its theological significance, particularly in contexts of divine manifestation. Strong's confirms its basic meaning while LEH adds valuable context from Septuagint usage. Moulton and Milligan's papyrological evidence shows its use in describing intense emotional and physical reactions.
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T - Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
"Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at His feet and, trembling [τρέμουσα] with fear, told Him the whole truth." Mark 5:33
Additional References:
Acts 9:6, 2 Peter 2:10
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
The word τρέμω powerfully captures the natural human response to encountering divine power. From the woman healed by Jesus to Saul on the Damascus road, this trembling represents both holy fear and reverent submission. This word reminds us that encountering the living God should produce not just casual acknowledgment but deep, transformative awe. Through τρέμω, we see that proper response to the Messiah's presence combines reverent fear with trusting faith, leading to healing and restoration.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G5141: A verb meaning "to tremble" or "to quake with fear," tremo describes physical trembling often resulting from divine encounters or supernatural experiences. In the New Testament, it expresses both holy fear and reverential awe before God.
Part of speech: Verb
Tags: trembling, fear, awe, reverence, divine encounter, supernatural experience, biblical Greek, New Testament Greek, Koine Greek, emotion, physical response, worship