Topical Encyclopedia The term "astounded" refers to a state of amazement or great surprise, often accompanied by wonder or shock. In the biblical context, this reaction is frequently observed in response to the miraculous works and profound teachings of God and His messengers. The Bible records numerous instances where individuals and crowds are left astounded by divine interventions, the authority of Jesus Christ, and the unfolding of God's plan.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the reaction of being astounded is often linked to the mighty acts of God. For example, when God delivered the Israelites from Egypt, the surrounding nations were astounded by His power. The parting of the Red Sea and the subsequent destruction of the Egyptian army left a lasting impression on those who heard of these events. The psalmist reflects on the awe-inspiring deeds of God, which leave the earth's inhabitants in wonder: "Come and see the works of God; how awesome are His deeds toward mankind" (Psalm 66:5). New Testament Context In the New Testament, the ministry of Jesus Christ frequently elicited astonishment from those who witnessed His miracles and heard His teachings. The Gospel accounts often describe the crowds as being astounded by Jesus' authority and wisdom. For instance, after Jesus calmed the storm, His disciples were left in awe, questioning, "Who is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?" (Matthew 8:27). Similarly, when Jesus taught in the synagogue, the people were amazed at His teaching, for He spoke with authority unlike the scribes (Mark 1:22). The miracles performed by Jesus, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, and casting out demons, consistently left onlookers astounded. In Mark 7:37, after Jesus healed a deaf and mute man, the crowd was "astonished beyond measure, saying, 'He has done all things well. He makes even the deaf hear and the mute speak.'" . Apostolic Era The early church also experienced moments of astonishment as the apostles, empowered by the Holy Spirit, performed signs and wonders. In Acts 3, Peter and John healed a man lame from birth, and the people were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him (Acts 3:10). The boldness and miraculous works of the apostles continued to astound both believers and skeptics alike, serving as a testament to the power of the risen Christ. Theological Implications The reaction of being astounded in the biblical narrative underscores the divine nature of God's interventions in human history. It highlights the distinction between the natural and the supernatural, drawing attention to God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises. The astonishment experienced by individuals serves as a catalyst for faith, prompting deeper reflection on the identity and mission of Jesus Christ. In summary, the biblical concept of being astounded is intricately linked to the revelation of God's power and authority. It serves as a reminder of the extraordinary nature of God's works and the profound impact they have on those who witness them. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Astound.Greek 1569. ekthambos -- utterly astounded, amazed ... utterly astounded, amazed. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: ekthambos Phonetic Spelling: (ek'-tham-bos) Short Definition: full of astonishment, amazed ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1569.htm - 6k 1569a. ekthambos -- utterly astounded, amazed 1839. existemi -- to displace, to stand aside from 1605. ekplesso -- to strike out, hence to strike with panic, to ... Strong's Hebrew 8539. tamah -- to be astounded or dumbfounded... 8538, 8539. tamah. 8540 . to be astounded or dumbfounded. Transliteration: tamah Phonetic Spelling: (taw-mah') Short Definition: amazed. Word Origin a prim ... /hebrew/8539.htm - 6k 8429. tevah -- to be startled or alarmed 8074. shamem -- to be desolated or appalled Library The Apocalypse of Peter. This Treatise Has a Favourable Beginning, Since it is the Birthday ... The Whole Church Affected by what Has Occurred. Letter ccxliv. To Patrophilus, Bishop of ??g??. Concerning Lowliness of Mind. The Giving up of Pontius Pilate. Good Earnests of Great Success The Birth of Saint George. Pray for all Men; for There is Hope of Repentance for Them... At Dilligen Thesaurus Astounded (12 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Astounded (12 Occurrences). ... Luke 8:56 Her parents were astounded; but He forbad them to mention the matter to any one. (WEY). ... /a/astounded.htm - 9k Astoreth Forbad (11 Occurrences) Mention (41 Occurrences) Bewildered (11 Occurrences) Astounding (2 Occurrences) Matter (263 Occurrences) Astonished (92 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean that God is a God of wonders? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Christians are the aroma of Christ? | GotQuestions.org Summary of the Gospel of John - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Astounded: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Astounded (12 Occurrences)Mark 5:42 Mark 6:51 Luke 8:56 Acts 2:12 Acts 3:11 Job 26:11 Psalms 48:5 Isaiah 29:9 Jeremiah 4:9 Daniel 3:24 Daniel 8:27 Habakkuk 1:5 Subtopics Related Terms |