The Fear of the Lord

A Biblical Expression

In the Bible the expression “fear of the Lord” is used quite often. For instance, in the Proverbs this fear is called “the beginning of knowledge” (1:7, NASU). In describes the particular attitude of a people, such as Abraham’s description of the people of Gerar: “there is no fear of God in this place” (Gen. 19:11). It also describes obedience and choosing to serve God, such as Job when Satan asked, “Does Job fear God for nothing?” (Job 1:9).