What Does the Word “fear” Mean? (Deuteronomy 1:17)

Answer:
The world “to fear,” which means “to reverence,” or “to respect.” In biblical theology, fear (yirah in Hebrew) is a profound reverence and awe toward God, encompassing respect, worship, and obedience.

• When a person fears another person, it means they hold them in respect and obey their authority.
• When a person fears God, it means they honor Him, obey His commands, and live in submission to His will.
• Conversely, to “fear” means not to fear or respect to disregard or reject that reverence.

This fear of God is foundational to biblical faith, as Proverbs 9:10 says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (ESV).

1. The Prohibition of Fearing People

Deuteronomy 1:17 (ESV):
“You shall not show partiality in judgment. You shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not be afraid in any man’s presence, for the judgment is God’s.”

Here, God commands His people not to fear or show partiality toward any human being, reminding them that ultimate justice belongs to God alone. This frees believers from intimidation and calls them to rely on God’s sovereignty.

Similarly, Joshua 10:25 records Joshua encouraging his people, “Do not be afraid of them,” underscoring God’s protection over His people.

2. The Prohibition of Fearing Other Gods

2 Kings 17:35, 37 (ESV):
“The LORD made a covenant with them and charged them, ‘You shall not fear other gods or bow down to them or serve them or sacrifice to them.'”
“Take care to keep the commandments of the LORD your God, and walk in his ways. You shall not fear other gods.”

The Old Testament repeatedly warns Israel against the worship and fear of false gods (idolatry). Such fear leads to spiritual unfaithfulness and judgment (see also Exodus 20:3-5).

3. The Call to Fear the One True God

Joshua 24:14 (ESV):
“Now therefore fear the LORD and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness.”

God calls His people to fear Him alone, which means wholehearted worship and obedience, renouncing all false gods. This fear is the basis of covenant faithfulness and life.

Other supportive passages include:

Deuteronomy 13:4: “You shall walk after the LORD your God and fear him and keep his commandments.”

1 Samuel 12:24: “Only fear the LORD and serve him faithfully.”

Psalm 34:9: “Fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack!”

1 Peter 2:17: “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.”

Revelation 14:7: “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come.”

• The fear of God is not mere terror but a reverential awe that leads to worship, obedience, and trust.
• Humans are commanded not to fear other humans in a way that compromises their obedience to God.
• Worship of and fear toward false gods or idols is strictly forbidden.
• True wisdom, peace, and life come from fearing the one true God, the Creator of heaven and earth.

Revelation 14:7 (ESV):
“Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.”

Have you been born again? Are you confident that if Jesus returns today, you would be ready to meet Him? If not, this is your call to repentance and faith. Receive Jesus now, and He will cleanse you, forgive you, and give you the assurance of eternal life.

Maranatha  The Lord is coming!

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