φάντασμα (phantasma)
phantasma
ghost
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun phantasma refers to a visible appearance or apparition, specifically one that is spectral in nature. In the New Testament, it describes a ghostly form or spectre rather than a physical body. This term appears only twice in the Gospels, both times within the same narrative event where Jesus walks on water during a storm.
Its usage is precise: when the disciples see Jesus approaching the boat in the darkness, they are terrified and cry out that they have seen a phantasma (Matthew 14:26; Mark 6:49). They interpret the shadowy figure as a supernatural spirit or ghost. The word does not imply a malicious entity but rather a startling visual phenomenon that defies their understanding of natural laws.
The term derives from a root meaning "to appear" or "to be seen," linking it to the concept of vision. By clarifying that He is not a phantasma, Jesus distinguishes His resurrected, physical presence from a mere illusion or ghostly echo. This distinction highlights the tangible reality of His return, reassuring the frightened disciples with His actual voice and presence.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word phantasma describes a spectral appearance, something seen in the dark that triggers fear because it defies our understanding of reality. In the Gospels, this term captures the disciples' terror when they see Jesus walking on the water. Their minds fill with shadows and ghosts, projecting their anxiety onto the darkness around them.
Jesus’ response is immediate and grounding. He does not let them remain in that fear. By identifying Himself clearly, He shows that His presence is real and tangible, not a frightening illusion. This moment reminds us that even when circumstances seem impossible or terrifying, Christ is present with us in the storm.
We often face moments where we feel overwhelmed by unseen forces or uncertain outcomes. The disciples’ experience offers comfort: Jesus meets us in our fear not to condemn it, but to replace it with His solid, reliable presence. You are never alone in the dark; He walks toward you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a ghost1×
- A ghost1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- φάντασμά2×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 14:26
When the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It’s a ghost!” and they cried out for fear.
This verse highlights the disciples' immediate fear and misinterpretation of Jesus' approach as a supernatural threat.
-
Mark 6:49
but they, when they saw him walking on the sea, supposed that it was a ghost, and cried out;
Here the term emphasizes how darkness distorts perception, leading the disciples to assume they are seeing a ghost rather than their Lord.