θαρρέω

I am courageous, of good cheer

Definition

θαρρέω means to be courageous, confident, or of good cheer, often in the face of difficulty or uncertainty. In the New Testament, it primarily describes a bold confidence that comes from faith, as seen in 2 Corinthians 5:6-8, where Paul expresses being 'of good courage' whether at home in the body or away with the Lord. In 2 Corinthians 10:1-2, the word takes on a nuance of personal boldness in confrontation, as Paul appeals to the Corinthians with the 'courage' he hopes to show when present with them. The sense culminates in Hebrews 13:6, where the believer's courage is rooted directly in God's promise: 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.'

Biblical Usage

This verb is used exclusively by Paul in the New Testament, appearing six times—five in 2 Corinthians and once in Hebrews. In 2 Corinthians, it is tightly connected to Paul's apostolic ministry and his relationship with the Corinthian church, expressing both pastoral confidence (2 Corinthians 7:16) and a readiness for difficult, face-to-face interaction (2 Corinthians 10:1-2). The single use in Hebrews 13:6 applies the concept universally to all believers, anchoring courage in God's faithful help.

Etymology

Derived from the root θάρσος (tharsos), meaning 'courage' or 'boldness.' It is related to the adjective θρασύς (thrasys, 'bold'), though θαρρέω carries a more positive connotation of reasoned confidence rather than mere rashness. The verb form emphasizes an internal state of being encouraged or taking heart.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the believer's God-given confidence amidst earthly trials and the hope of eternity. In 2 Corinthians 5:6-8, it bridges the tension between present bodily life and future life with Christ, showing that Christian courage is based on faith, not sight. Understanding θαρρέω enriches reading by highlighting that biblical courage is not absence of fear but a steadfast trust in God's presence and promises, transforming how believers face suffering, death, and conflict.

In ancient Greek culture, courage (ἀνδρεία, andreia) was a cardinal virtue, often associated with martial bravery. θαρρέω, while overlapping, more often conveyed a personal, inner confidence or cheer—a state of heart. The New Testament usage infuses this general human confidence with specific theological content, rooting it not in human virtue but in God's character and the hope of the gospel, which would have been a distinctive shift for both Greek and Jewish readers.

παῤῥησιάζομαι (parrēsiazomai, G3955) — emphasizes boldness in speech or proclamation, often publicly. θαρσέω (tharseō, G2293) — a variant spelling with identical meaning. εὐθυμέω (euthymeō, G2114) — focuses more on being cheerful or in good spirits, with less emphasis on courageous action.

Word Details

Scripture References