Lexical Summary phrissó: To shudder, to bristle Original Word: φρίσσω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance tremble. Apparently a primary verb; to "bristle" or chill, i.e. Shudder (fear) -- tremble. HELPS Word-studies 5425 phríssō – properly, to bristle (shiver) from fear; shudder (used only in Js 2:19). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origina prim. verb Definition to be rough, to shiver, shudder NASB Translation shudder (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5425: φρίσσωφρίσσω; very often in Greek writings from Homer down; to be rough, Latinhorreo, horresco, i. e. 1. to bristle, stiffen, stand up: ἔφριξαν μου τρίχες, Job 4:15 the Sept.; with ὀρθαί added, Hesiod, Works, 510; ὀρθάς ... φρισσει τρίχας (cognate accusative of the part affected), Hesiod scut. 391; with cold, διά τό ψῦχος, Plutarch, quaest. nat. 13, 2, p. 915 b. 2. to shudder, to be struck with extreme fear, to be horrified: absolutely, James 2:19; 4 Macc. 14:9; like the Latinhorreo, horresco, construction with an accusative of the object exciting the fear, Homer, Iliad 11,383, and often. The verb paints the moment when fear or intense awe causes the hair to stand on end, a physical reflex that signals inward alarm. Ancient writers used the term for warriors who stiffened at the sound of approaching battle and for sailors who felt dread as storms arose. Scripture adopts the same vivid picture to convey soul-deep terror before the sovereign God. New Testament setting: James 2:19 James addresses those who parade correct doctrine yet remain unchanged: “You believe that God is one. Good for you! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.” (James 2:19). The Spirit‐inspired choice of this verb exposes a chilling irony. Demons possess an orthodox monotheism but respond only with involuntary horror, not obedient trust. Mere assent, therefore, never satisfies the demands of living faith (James 2:17; 2:26). Theological implications 1. Reality of the unseen realm: The demonic response validates the existence of personal, malevolent spirits who are neither atheistic nor ignorant of God’s nature (Mark 1:24; Luke 4:34). Comparative usage in Greek and Jewish backgrounds • Classical Greek: Homer (Iliad 11.393) depicts heroes whose “limbs trembled and their hair bristled” as terror overtook them. Connection to the biblical doctrine of fear Scripture distinguishes servile terror (Genesis 3:10) from filial fear that delights in God’s holiness (Proverbs 1:7). The shudder of demons belongs to the former category. For believers, godly fear produces worshipful submission (Philippians 2:12) rather than paralytic dread. James leverages the darker type to warn the church against empty religiosity. Pastoral and homiletical reflections • Examine faith for evidences of life: works of love, humble obedience, and perseverance (2 Corinthians 13:5). Doctrinal and apologetic contribution The singular New Testament occurrence serves apologetically by demonstrating that biblical monotheism is not a mere human construct; even supernatural adversaries acknowledge it. Doctrinally, the passage refines the definition of faith used in gospel proclamation—calling hearers beyond intellectualism to repentance and surrender. Practical exhortations for contemporary believers 1. Let biblical truths grip both mind and affections, driving godly action (John 14:15). The verb’s lone New Testament appearance thus becomes a penetrating lens through which to view authentic Christianity: knowledge that moves the heart, bows the will, and manifests in works of mercy and righteousness. |
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