δειλία

cowardice

Definition

δειλία (deilia) refers to a state of cowardice, fearfulness, or timidity. In the New Testament, it specifically denotes a spirit of fear that is incompatible with the Spirit given by God. This is not a healthy caution or reverence, but a debilitating fear that inhibits faith and action. The word appears only in 2 Timothy 1:7, where Paul contrasts it directly with the power, love, and self-discipline that characterize the Spirit of God.

Biblical Usage

This noun is used only once in the New Testament, in 2 Timothy 1:7. In this context, Paul is exhorting Timothy to fan into flame his spiritual gift and not to be ashamed of the testimony about Christ. He explicitly states, 'For God gave us a spirit not of fear (δειλία), but of power and love and self-control.' The usage is entirely negative, presented as the antithesis of the Spirit's empowering work in a believer's life.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective δειλός (deilos, G1169), meaning 'cowardly' or 'timid.' The root conveys a sense of being fearful, wretched, or lacking in courage. It is related to the verb δέος (deos), meaning 'fear' or 'alarm.' The development of meaning centers on a base, crippling kind of fear.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it defines a spiritual condition opposed to the gift of God's Spirit. In 2 Timothy 1:7, δειλία represents a human, natural state of fear that the gospel overcomes. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of this verse by highlighting that the Christian's courage is not self-generated but is a direct result of the indwelling Holy Spirit, who provides power (δύναμις), love (ἀγάπη), and self-control (σωφρονισμός). It underscores the transformative nature of salvation from a spirit of slavery to fear to a spirit of adoption (Romans 8:15).

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, courage (ἀνδρεία) was a cardinal virtue, while cowardice was a profound vice, especially for soldiers and leaders. For Paul to use this term for Timothy, a young church leader, carried strong cultural weight—it was a failing to be strenuously avoided. The Christian context redefines the source of true courage, shifting it from human fortitude to divine empowerment.

φόβος (phobos, G5401) — A broader, more general term for fear, which can be positive (reverence for God) or negative (terror). δειλία is a specific, always-negative subset of φόβος.

Word Details

Scripture References