θαυμάζω

I wonder, admire

Definition

The verb θαυμάζω primarily means 'to wonder, marvel, or be amazed.' In the New Testament, it often describes a reaction of astonishment to something extraordinary, such as Jesus' miracles (Matthew 9:33) or authoritative teaching (Matthew 22:22). In a transitive sense, it can mean 'to admire' or 'to hold in wonder,' as seen when Jesus marvels at the faith of the centurion (Matthew 8:10). The amazement can be positive, leading to praise (Matthew 15:31), or sometimes perplexing, as in the disciples' wonder at Jesus' power over nature (Matthew 8:27).

Biblical Usage

θαυμάζω appears 46 times across the Gospels, Acts, and the Epistles, most frequently in the Synoptic Gospels. It is commonly used to describe the crowd's reaction to Jesus' miracles and teachings (e.g., Matthew 9:8, 21:20). In some instances, it denotes a state of perplexity or lack of understanding, as when Pilate is amazed at Jesus' silence (Matthew 27:14). The usage consistently highlights human astonishment in the face of divine power or unexpected events.

Etymology

Derived from the noun θαῦμα (thauma, G2295), meaning 'a wonder' or 'marvel.' The verb form inherently carries the sense of reacting to something wondrous or astonishing. It is a classical Greek term that retained its core meaning of amazement into the Koine period, used widely in secular and biblical Greek to express awe.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the human response to God's inbreaking kingdom in Jesus Christ. The marveling often precedes faith or reveals a lack of comprehension, highlighting the distinction between human perception and divine reality. Understanding θαυμάζο enriches reading by showing that true wonder at Jesus' works should lead to worship and deeper belief, not merely superficial amazement.

In the Greco-Roman world, θαυμάζω was used for reactions to miracles, philosophical teachings, or remarkable events. Unlike modern casual surprise, it often implied a profound, awe-struck response to something perceived as supernatural or beyond ordinary explanation. This cultural depth informs the biblical usage, where amazement at Jesus points to his unique, divine authority.

ἐκπλήσσω (ekplēssō, G1605) — denotes being 'astounded' or 'overwhelmed,' often with a stronger sense of shock. ἐξίστημι (existēmi, G1839) — means 'to be astonished' or 'to lose one's composure,' sometimes implying confusion. θαμβέω (thambeō, G2284) — conveys 'to be amazed' or 'awestruck,' with a nuance of fear or reverence.

Word Details

Scripture References