Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature: Panic is an overwhelming feeling of fear or anxiety that can cause irrational behavior and a loss of self-control. In the biblical context, panic is often associated with sudden terror or dread that can lead to chaos and confusion. It is a state of mind that can disrupt faith and trust in God. Biblical Instances and References: The Bible provides several instances where panic is depicted, often as a result of divine intervention or judgment. In the Old Testament, panic is sometimes used by God as a tool to defeat Israel's enemies. For example, in Exodus 23:27, God promises the Israelites, "I will send My terror ahead of you and throw into confusion every nation you encounter. I will make all your enemies turn their backs and run." In Judges 7:21-22, during Gideon's battle against the Midianites, God causes panic among the enemy troops: "Each man stood in his place around the camp, and the entire Midianite army fled, crying out as they ran. When the three hundred trumpets sounded, the LORD set every man’s sword against his companion throughout the camp, and the army fled." Panic is also seen in the New Testament, though often in a more personal and spiritual context. In Matthew 14:30, Peter experiences panic when he walks on water towards Jesus: "But when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink, cried out, 'Lord, save me!'" Theological Implications: Panic, as depicted in the Bible, often results from a lack of faith or trust in God. It is a human response to perceived danger or uncertainty, which can lead to a departure from reliance on divine providence. The Bible encourages believers to replace panic with peace through faith. Philippians 4:6-7 advises, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Moral and Spiritual Lessons: The Bible teaches that panic can be overcome by trusting in God's sovereignty and presence. Isaiah 41:10 reassures believers, "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Believers are encouraged to cultivate a spirit of calm and confidence in God's promises, even in the face of fear-inducing circumstances. Psalm 56:3-4 states, "When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust. I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" Practical Application: In moments of panic, Christians are encouraged to turn to prayer and Scripture, seeking God's guidance and peace. The practice of meditating on God's word and promises can help to alleviate fear and restore a sense of calm. Additionally, fellowship with other believers can provide support and encouragement during times of distress. By focusing on God's faithfulness and power, believers can transform panic into an opportunity for spiritual growth and deeper reliance on the Lord. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A plant of the genus Panicum; panic grass; also, the edible grain of some species of panic grass.2. (a.) Extreme or sudden and causeless; unreasonable; -- said of fear or fright; as, panic fear, terror, alarm. 3. (n.) A sudden, overpowering fright; esp., a sudden and groundless fright; terror inspired by a trifling cause or a misapprehension of danger; as, the troops were seized with a panic; they fled in a panic. 4. (a.) By extension: A sudden widespread fright or apprehension concerning financial affairs. Greek 1605. ekplesso -- to strike out, hence to strike with panic, to ... ... to strike out, hence to strike with panic, to amaze. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: ekplesso Phonetic Spelling: (ek-place'-so) Short Definition: I ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1605.htm - 7k 5401. phobos -- panic flight, fear, the causing of fear, terror 2350. thorubeo -- to disturb 4422. ptoeo -- to terrify 2351. thorubos -- an uproar Strong's Hebrew 7374. retet -- a trembling, panic... 7373b, 7374. retet. 7375 . a trembling, panic. Transliteration: retet Phonetic Spelling: (reh'-tet) Short Definition: panic. Word ... /hebrew/7374.htm - 5k 4103. mehumah -- tumult, confusion, disquietude, discomfiture 928. behalah -- dismay, sudden terror or ruin 6343. pachad -- dread 2648. chaphaz -- to be in trepidation, hurry or alarm 7461b. readah -- a trembling 4032. magor -- fear, terror Library The October Panic. Valentinus, Ptolemy and Secundus, Heracleon. Concerning Fear. Jonathan's Brave Deed Affecting Incident at Sea. A Strange Battle The Outbreak at Benares. Self-Scrutiny in God's Presence. A Battle Without a Sword Introduction Thesaurus Panic (22 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (n.) A plant of the genus Panicum; panic grass; also, the edible grain of some species of panic grass. ... /p/panic.htm - 12k Benhadad (24 Occurrences) Faint (76 Occurrences) Pangs (26 Occurrences) Arrest (22 Occurrences) Trial (45 Occurrences) Zalmun'na (8 Occurrences) Gog (12 Occurrences) Immanuel (3 Occurrences) Rout (6 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about panic attacks? | GotQuestions.orgShould a Christian take anti-depressants or other mental health medicines? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible mean when it tells us to fear not / do not fear? | GotQuestions.org Panic: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Panic (22 Occurrences)Deuteronomy 20:3 Joshua 10:10 Judges 8:12 1 Samuel 5:9 1 Samuel 5:11 1 Samuel 7:10 1 Samuel 14:15 2 Samuel 17:2 Psalms 48:5 Psalms 48:6 Proverbs 1:26 Proverbs 1:27 Proverbs 3:25 Isaiah 22:5 Isaiah 31:9 Jeremiah 30:5 Jeremiah 49:24 Jeremiah 51:32 Lamentations 3:47 Ezekiel 7:7 Zechariah 12:4 Zechariah 14:13 Subtopics Related Terms |