ταράσσω

I agitate, stir up, trouble

Definition

The verb ταράσσω primarily means to disturb, agitate, or trouble, often describing a state of inner turmoil or external disruption. In a literal sense, it can refer to the stirring up of water, as seen in John 5:4, 7 where an angel troubles the pool of Bethesda. More commonly, it describes emotional or psychological disturbance, such as Herod being 'troubled' at the news of Jesus' birth (Matthew 2:3) or the disciples being 'terrified' when they see Jesus walking on water (Matthew 14:26, Mark 6:50). It also conveys a deep spiritual agitation, as when Jesus is 'deeply moved' at the tomb of Lazarus (John 11:33).

Biblical Usage

Ταράσσω appears 17 times in the New Testament, used across the Gospels and Acts to depict both fear and inner disturbance. In the Gospels, it frequently describes the reaction to supernatural events or divine revelation, such as Zechariah being 'gripped with fear' at the angel's appearance (Luke 1:12) or the disciples being 'startled and frightened' by the risen Jesus (Luke 24:38). The usage highlights human vulnerability in the face of the divine, often preceding a word of comfort or revelation, as when Jesus says, 'Do not be afraid' (Mark 6:50).

Etymology

Derived from the Greek root ταραχ- (tarach-), meaning 'disturbance' or 'tumult,' ταράσσω is related to the noun ταραχή (tarachē, G5016), meaning 'trouble' or 'disturbance.' The verb conveys the idea of stirring up or agitating, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Its cognates appear in classical Greek with similar meanings of confusion or disorder.

Semantic Range

Ταράσσω is theologically significant as it often marks human encounters with the divine or supernatural, revealing the unsettling effect of God's intervention in human affairs. It underscores the contrast between human frailty and God's sovereignty, as seen when people are troubled by Jesus' miracles or resurrection. Understanding this word enriches reading by highlighting the emotional and spiritual disorientation that precedes faith or revelation, pointing to the need for Christ's reassuring presence, as he calms troubled hearts (e.g., John 14:1, 27).

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, being 'troubled' (ταράσσω) often carried connotations of cosmic or social disorder, reflecting a worldview where emotional agitation was linked to external chaos. Unlike modern individualism, such disturbance was seen as a disruption of one's place in the ordered universe, especially when caused by divine encounters. This cultural lens helps explain why biblical characters' fear is so prominent in theophanies or miracles.

φοβέω (phobeō, G5399) — focuses on fear or reverence, often in response to a threat. θροέω (throeō, G2360) — emphasizes being alarmed or startled, typically by sudden events. διαταράσσω (diatarassō, G1298) — an intensified form meaning to greatly disturb or agitate.

Word Details

Scripture References