רַגָּז
timid
Definition
The Hebrew noun רַגָּז (raggâz) describes a state of intense trembling or agitation, specifically the kind of fear that causes physical shaking. It is an intensive form derived from the root רָגַז (ragaz), meaning 'to be agitated' or 'to tremble.' In its single biblical occurrence in Deuteronomy 28:65, it is used to depict the profound, debilitating anxiety and restlessness that would befall Israel as a consequence of covenant disobedience. This is not a simple nervousness but a deep-seated, continual terror that affects both mind and body.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Deuteronomy 28:65, within the context of the covenant curses. It describes the psychological and physical state of the exiled Israelites: 'And among these nations you shall find no respite, and there shall be no resting place for the sole of your foot, but the LORD will give you there a trembling heart (לֵב רַגָּז) and failing eyes and a languishing soul.' Here, it is paired with 'heart' (לֵב) to signify an internal, consuming fear.
Etymology
רַגָּז is an intensive noun form (often with a geminated middle consonant) from the root רָגַז (H7264, ragaz), which means 'to be agitated,' 'to quake,' 'to be angry,' or 'to tremble.' The root conveys strong emotional or physical disturbance. Cognates appear in other Semitic languages with similar meanings of shaking or quaking. The intensive form רַגָּז emphasizes a heightened, persistent state of such agitation.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it encapsulates the severe consequences of breaking God's covenant. The 'trembling heart' in Deuteronomy 28:65 is not merely a random emotional state but a direct judgment from God, contrasting with the peace and security promised for obedience. It highlights the holistic nature of biblical blessings and curses, affecting the innermost being. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of this warning by conveying the depth of the despair and restless terror that comes from being out of fellowship with God.
In the ancient Near Eastern context, a covenant between a sovereign and his people carried enforceable blessings and curses. A 'trembling heart' represented the ultimate loss of peace, stability, and confidence—highly valued states in a precarious world. This condition would have been understood as a complete undermining of a person's well-being and social standing, leaving them perpetually unsettled and fearful.
פַּחַד (pachad, H6343) — a more general term for fear or dread. בֶּהָלָה (behalah, H927) — sudden terror or alarm, often causing panic. חֲרָדָה (charadah, H2731) — trembling from fear or awe, can be used in a reverential context.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
Full methodology & sources →