Strong's Lexicon phrissó: To shudder, to bristle Original Word: φρίσσω Word Origin: A primary verb Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "phrissó," the concept of fear and trembling before God is prevalent in the Old Testament, often expressed through words like יָרֵא (yare, Strong's H3372) meaning "to fear" or "to revere." Usage: The Greek verb "phrissó" primarily means to shudder or to bristle, often used to describe a physical reaction to fear or awe. In the New Testament, it conveys a sense of trembling or being deeply affected by something, typically in a negative or fearful context. Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient Greek culture, the concept of shuddering or bristling was often associated with fear or reverence, particularly in the presence of something divine or supernatural. This reaction was seen as a natural human response to encountering the divine or the unknown, reflecting a deep-seated respect or fear. 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. Apparently a primary verb; to "bristle" or chill, i.e. Shudder (fear) -- tremble. |