how many times does the bible say not to fear

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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06-02-2025

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The phrase "fear not" (or variations of it) appears frequently throughout the Bible, offering comfort and reassurance to readers. But precisely how many times is a surprisingly complex question, depending on the translation and how broadly you define "fear not." This article will explore the different ways this theme is presented and offer some insights into its frequency and significance.

Counting Instances of "Fear Not" and Similar Phrases

A simple search for "fear not" across various Bible translations will yield different results. The exact number varies significantly depending on the translation used, as different versions render the original Hebrew and Greek words in slightly different ways. Some translations might opt for synonyms like "do not be afraid," "be not afraid," or similar phrasing, which impacts the total count.

Furthermore, the Hebrew and Greek originals contain several words related to fear, and their nuances aren't always perfectly captured by a single English equivalent. The Old Testament uses different words to express fear, and the New Testament uses "μη φοβου" (mē phobou) in Greek, which can have subtle differences in context. Simply counting "fear not" as a literal phrase underestimates the overall biblical emphasis on overcoming fear.

The Significance of "Fear Not" in the Bible

Regardless of the precise number, the frequent appearance of "fear not" (or its equivalents) underscores its crucial role within the biblical narrative. God repeatedly assures his people, both individually and collectively, that they need not succumb to fear. This reassurance is vital in various contexts:

• Facing hardship: The Israelites often faced challenging circumstances, from slavery in Egypt to wilderness wanderings. God's repeated "fear not" commands provide strength and hope during times of adversity.
• Encountering the divine: Encounters with God, angels, or prophets could be intimidating. "Fear not" signals that God's presence is not necessarily terrifying, but rather a source of comfort and protection.
• Facing enemies: The promise of God's protection and guidance often accompanied assurances to "fear not" earthly adversaries.
• Facing uncertainty: The future is unknown, and fear of the unknown is a common human experience. The Bible's "fear not" offers peace and trust in God's plan.

Why the Exact Number is Difficult to Pin Down

The difficulty in providing a precise number stems from several factors:

• Different translations: As mentioned, different translations interpret the original languages differently, leading to variations in the use of "fear not" or similar phrases.
• Variations in wording: The original languages offer nuances that aren't always perfectly conveyed in English. Close synonyms might capture the intended meaning but not be a direct translation of "fear not."
• Contextual meaning: The significance of the phrase often relies heavily on its context within the surrounding verses.

Biblical Examples of "Fear Not"

Here are a few examples illustrating the various contexts in which "fear not" appears:

• Isaiah 41:10: "So 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."
• Joshua 1:9: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
• Matthew 10:28: “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (This verse demonstrates a contrasting use of "fear.")

Conclusion: The Importance of Trust Over Fear

While pinpointing the exact number of times "fear not" appears in the Bible remains challenging, the frequent use of this phrase and its synonyms clearly emphasizes the importance of trust in God's protection and guidance. The biblical message is clear: despite life's uncertainties and hardships, faith in God offers solace and strength, enabling believers to overcome fear and embrace hope. The overwhelming message transcends a simple numerical count; it's about the unwavering reassurance of God's presence in the face of adversity.