← Back to Lexicon
G2124 · Greek · New Testament
εὐλάβεια
eulabeia
Noun, feminine
reverence/godly fear/caution

Definition

A noun meaning reverence, godly fear, or devout caution. It combines eu (well) and lambano (to take hold of) — the idea of taking hold of things carefully, with proper regard. It describes a devout, reverent posture toward God that motivates careful, obedient living — not slavish terror but filial reverence.

Usage & Theological Significance

Eulabeia describes the kind of fear that is actually a form of love and trust — the reverence of a child before a holy Father, not the terror of a slave before a tyrant. Hebrews 5:7 says Jesus was heard because of his eulabeia — his reverent submission to the Father. Hebrews 12:28 calls believers to worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. This holy fear is not anxiety but attentiveness — the careful, alert posture of someone who takes God seriously. It is the antidote to both presumption (treating God casually) and despair (treating God as merely threatening).

Key Bible Verses

Hebrews 5:7 During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.
Hebrews 12:28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.
Acts 2:43 Awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles.
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
1 Peter 1:17 Since you call on a Father who judges each person's work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️