Who or what is Reverence in the Bible?

Ancient Context: Reverence

⚡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)

In the Old Testament, 'reverence' translates Hebrew terms yare' and shachah, denoting fear, awe, or honor toward God or His sanctuary. In the New Testament, it derives from Greek words conveying modesty, fear, or a sense of inferiority.

What is the meaning of Reverence in the Bible?

In the Old Testament, 'reverence' translates Hebrew terms yare' and shachah, denoting fear, awe, or honor toward God or His sanctuary. In the New Testament, it derives from Greek words conveying modesty, fear, or a sense of inferiority.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding these linguistic roots clarifies the biblical expectation of worship as an act of humble submission and deep respect toward God and established authority figures.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Reverence. 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 Reverence in this passage?
What cultural or historical assumption does Reverence clarify?

Source Attribution & Provenance

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.

How to Cite This Entry

          "Reverence." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/reverence/
        

Reverence