πτόησις (ptoēsis)
ptoēsis
fear
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun ptoēsis describes a sudden, intense reaction to fear, capturing the physical sensation of dread or terror. It is not merely a calm state of caution but a visceral shock that causes one’s spirit to falter. The word appears only once in the New Testament, where it conveys the idea of being overwhelmed by anxiety or dismay.
In 1 Peter 3:6, the term highlights the contrast between living without fear and those who are consumed by it. The text suggests that true confidence comes from trusting God rather than succumbing to this paralyzing panic. By using such a strong word for fear, the author emphasizes the depth of trust required to remain steady in difficult circumstances.
This single usage underscores how deeply rooted faith must be to resist the pull of terror. It reminds readers that peace is not the absence of danger but the presence of trust in God’s care, even when fear tries to take hold.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word ptoēsis describes a sudden, intense shock of dread that can make your spirit falter. It is not simple caution but a visceral reaction to danger or anxiety. When we face unexpected challenges, this kind of fear can feel overwhelming, causing us to lose our footing and stability.
1 Peter 3:6 reminds us that true confidence comes from trusting God rather than succumbing to paralyzing panic. Sarah’s example shows that peace is not the absence of danger but the presence of trust in God’s care. By anchoring our hearts in faith, we can remain steady even when circumstances try to shake us.
This single usage underscores how deeply rooted faith must be to resist the pull of terror. It invites you to look beyond your immediate fears and rest in the assurance that God is with you. May you find strength in this promise and walk forward with quiet confidence.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- consternation.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πτόησιν.¶1×