The term "affrighteth" is an archaic form of the verb "affright," which means to frighten or to cause fear. This term is found in older translations of the Bible and is used to describe the act of instilling fear or terror. In the context of Scripture, "affrighteth" often conveys the overwhelming awe or dread that can be experienced in the presence of divine manifestations or during significant prophetic events.

Biblical Usage:

The concept of being "affrighted" is frequently associated with encounters with the divine or angelic beings, as well as with apocalyptic visions. It underscores the natural human reaction to the holiness and power of God, which can be both awe-inspiring and fear-inducing.

Scriptural References:

1. Daniel 8:17 : "As he came near to where I stood, I was terrified and fell facedown. 'Son of man,' he said to me, 'understand that the vision concerns the time of the end.'" In this passage, Daniel is affrighted by the presence of the angel Gabriel, illustrating the profound impact of divine revelation.

2. Matthew 28:4 : "The guards trembled in fear of him and became like dead men." Here, the guards at Jesus' tomb are affrighted by the appearance of the angel, demonstrating the power and majesty of God's messengers.

3. Revelation 1:17 : "When I saw Him, I fell at His feet like a dead man. But He placed His right hand on me and said, 'Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.'" The Apostle John is affrighted by the vision of the glorified Christ, highlighting the overwhelming nature of divine encounters.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the reaction of being affrighted serves as a reminder of the transcendence and holiness of God. It reflects the biblical theme that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). This fear is not merely terror but a reverent awe that acknowledges God's supreme authority and power.

Historical Context:

In the historical context of the Bible, being affrighted often accompanies significant moments of revelation or judgment. It is a common response among biblical figures who encounter the divine, emphasizing the gap between human frailty and divine majesty.

Practical Application:

For believers, the concept of being affrighted can serve as a call to cultivate a healthy reverence for God. It encourages a posture of humility and worship, recognizing the greatness of God and the seriousness of His commands. It also reassures believers that while God's presence may initially cause fear, His ultimate message is one of peace and assurance, as seen in the comforting words often spoken by angels and by Christ Himself: "Do not be afraid."

My High Tower
... In Him I dare be joyful, a hero in the war,. The judgment of the sinner affrighteth
me no more. There is no condemnation, there is no hell for me,. ...
/.../bevan/hymns of ter steegen and others second series/my high tower.htm

The Life of John Gordon viscount Kenmuir.
... My lord replied, "When I begin to look upon my life, I think all is wrong in it,
and the lateness of my reckoning affrighteth me, therefore stay with me, and ...
/.../howie/biographia scoticana scots worthies/the life of john gordon.htm

Rom. vi. 5
... Do you see how he affrighteth them? For if He does not die again, then there is
no second laver, then do thou keep from all inclinableness to sin. ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xi rom vi 5.htm

The Allegories of Sarah and Hagar
... The law is, so to speak, Jesus Christ's dog, to go after his sheep, and bring them
to the shepherd; the law is the thunderbolt which affrighteth ungodly men ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/the allegories of sarah and.htm

The victory of Faith
... "Ah," saith he, "just as the lightning leapeth from its thunder lair, splitteth
the clouds, and affrighteth the stars, but is powerless against the rock ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/the victory of faith.htm

Affrighteth (1 Occurrence)
...Affrighteth (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 21:4 My heart panteth, horror affrighteth me:
the night of my pleasure hath he turned into trembling unto me. (DBY). ...
/a/affrighteth.htm - 6k

Panteth (4 Occurrences)
... (KJV ASV DBY WBS YLT). Isaiah 21:4 My heart panteth, horror affrighteth me: the
night of my pleasure hath he turned into trembling unto me. (DBY). ...
/p/panteth.htm - 7k

Afire (2 Occurrences)

/a/afire.htm - 7k

Affrighted (60 Occurrences)

/a/affrighted.htm - 23k

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