A Greek verb meaning to be of good courage, take heart, be bold, have confidence. It is a command to courage — not a suggestion. In the New Testament, it is almost exclusively spoken by Jesus, making it a divine imperative rather than self-generated motivation. It addresses fear directly with the authority of Christ's presence.
Every use of tharseō by Jesus occurs in a moment of fear, helplessness, or despair — and His word of courage always comes with His presence. To the paralytic: 'Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven' (Matthew 9:2). To the hemorrhaging woman: 'Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well' (Matthew 9:22). To the disciples in the storm: 'Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid' (Matthew 14:27). And culminating in John 16:33: 'Take heart; I have overcome the world.' The pattern reveals that biblical courage is not about our strength but about who stands with us. Jesus doesn't explain the storm away — He walks into it and says, 'Courage.'