The term "startleth" is an archaic form of the verb "startle," which means to cause sudden fear or surprise. While the specific word "startleth" does not appear in the Berean Standard Bible , the concept of being startled or surprised is present throughout the biblical narrative. This entry explores the biblical understanding of being startled, particularly in the context of divine encounters, prophetic revelations, and human reactions to the unexpected.

Divine Encounters

Throughout Scripture, encounters with the divine often result in a sense of awe and fear, akin to being startled. When individuals come face to face with God's presence or His messengers, their reactions often include fear and trembling. For instance, in the book of Daniel, the prophet experiences a vision that leaves him trembling: "I, Daniel, was the only one who saw the vision; the men with me did not see it, but such terror overwhelmed them that they fled and hid themselves" (Daniel 10:7). This reaction underscores the overwhelming nature of divine encounters, which can startle even the most faithful.

Prophetic Revelations

Prophetic revelations often come unexpectedly, startling both the prophet and the audience. The suddenness of these revelations can be seen in the call of the prophet Isaiah. When Isaiah sees the Lord seated on a high and lofty throne, he is immediately struck by his own unworthiness and the holiness of God: "Woe is me, for I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips" (Isaiah 6:5). This moment of divine revelation startles Isaiah into a profound awareness of his own sinfulness and the need for purification.

Human Reactions to the Unexpected

The Bible also records numerous instances where individuals are startled by unexpected events or divine interventions. In the New Testament, the resurrection of Jesus Christ is a prime example. The women who visit the tomb are initially startled by the appearance of an angel who announces that Jesus has risen: "The angel said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said'" (Matthew 28:5-6). This startling revelation transforms their fear into joy and compels them to share the good news with the disciples.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the concept of being startled in the Bible often serves as a catalyst for transformation. Encounters with the divine or the unexpected can lead to a deeper understanding of God's power, holiness, and grace. These moments challenge individuals to respond in faith, obedience, and worship. The startling nature of God's revelations and interventions reminds believers of the transcendence and immanence of God, who is both beyond human comprehension and intimately involved in the lives of His people.

In summary, while the specific term "startleth" may not be present in the Berean Standard Bible, the concept is woven throughout the biblical narrative. It highlights the human response to divine encounters, prophetic revelations, and unexpected events, serving as a reminder of the awe-inspiring nature of God's presence and actions in the world.

The Majestic Voice
... a wilderness or a desert, and conceive if you would make anything hear; but when
God speaks, his voice ringeth through the wilderness, and startleth the desert ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/the majestic voice.htm

Startleth (1 Occurrence)
...Startleth (1 Occurrence). Job 40:23 Lo, the river overfloweth he startleth not:
he is confident though a Jordan break forth against his mouth. (DBY). ...
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Overfloweth (5 Occurrences)
... WBS). Job 40:23 Lo, the river overfloweth he startleth not: he is confident
though a Jordan break forth against his mouth. (DBY). ...
/o/overfloweth.htm - 7k

Starts (1 Occurrence)

/s/starts.htm - 6k

Startled (4 Occurrences)

/s/startled.htm - 7k

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