Astonishment
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Astonishment in the Bible?
Astonishment refers to amazement, mental surprise, excitement, or wonder, often caused by a remarkable event or circumstance. It can be used to describe a state of being amazed or astonished.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing astonishment in biblical narratives helps readers understand the emotional impact of divine interventions and miracles on the witnesses, revealing how such events challenged their expectations and deepened their faith.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Astonishment. Examine how first-century or Near Eastern listeners understood this practice within their daily social dynamics.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Astonishment in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Astonishment clarify?
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Astonishment." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/astonishment/