The concept of fear among the Israelites is a multifaceted theme throughout the Bible, encompassing both the fear of God and the fear of external threats. This entry explores the various dimensions of fear as experienced by the Israelites, drawing from scriptural references and historical contexts.

Fear of God

The fear of God is a central tenet in the spiritual life of the Israelites, often associated with reverence, awe, and obedience. This fear is not merely an emotion but a profound respect for God's holiness and authority. In Deuteronomy 10:12, Moses instructs the Israelites: "And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul." This fear is foundational to the covenant relationship between God and His people, emphasizing the importance of living according to His commandments.

The fear of God is also linked to wisdom and understanding. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This fear is portrayed as a guiding principle that leads to a righteous and fulfilling life, aligning the Israelites with God's will.

Fear of Enemies and External Threats

Throughout their history, the Israelites faced numerous external threats from surrounding nations. This fear is often depicted in the context of warfare and oppression. In Exodus 14:10, as the Israelites stood before the Red Sea with the Egyptian army in pursuit, "As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up and saw the Egyptians marching after them, and they were terrified and cried out to the LORD." This fear, however, is frequently met with divine intervention and reassurance from God, who commands them to trust in His deliverance.

The fear of enemies is also evident during the conquest of Canaan. In Numbers 13:31-33, the spies sent to explore the land report, "We cannot go up against the people, for they are stronger than we are... We seemed like grasshoppers in our own sight, and we must have seemed the same to them." This fear, rooted in a lack of faith, contrasts with the courage and trust exemplified by Joshua and Caleb, who urge the people to rely on God's promise.

Fear as a Consequence of Disobedience

The Israelites' fear is sometimes portrayed as a consequence of their disobedience and unfaithfulness to God. In Leviticus 26:36, God warns, "As for those of you who survive, I will send despair into their hearts in the lands of their enemies; the sound of a windblown leaf will put them to flight." This fear serves as a reminder of the repercussions of straying from God's commandments and the importance of repentance and return to faithfulness.

Fear in the Psalms and Prophetic Literature

The Psalms frequently address the theme of fear, offering both expressions of fear and declarations of trust in God. Psalm 56:3-4 declares, "When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust. I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" This juxtaposition of fear and faith highlights the Israelites' reliance on God as their refuge and strength.

Prophetic literature also addresses fear, often in the context of impending judgment or exile. The prophets call the Israelites to repentance, urging them to replace their fear of impending doom with a renewed fear of the Lord. Isaiah 41:10 offers comfort: "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

In summary, the fear of the Israelites encompasses a spectrum of experiences, from reverence for God to anxiety over external threats. It serves as both a motivator for obedience and a consequence of disobedience, ultimately pointing the Israelites back to a reliance on God's power and promises.