Fear

The concept of the "fear of God" is a commonly misunderstood one. Questions such as whether one should be fearing God or loving Him have often been raised in many audiences. True - it may seem incompatible with the structure of a relationship such as personal bonding. However, each religion and each sacred book has its own cultural character and background. Its concepts must be interpreted in the context of that specific cultural context.

In the cultural context of the Bible, "fear of God" is not like fearful of a snake or a scorpion, or an attacker (not being terrified). It is a deep respect that one feels or maintains before the holiness, power, and majesty of God. It is an attitude of loving submission that leads to hating evil, keeping God's commands, and placing God at the center of one's life.

Even if I had the opportunity to approach the Pope, or a world-famous artist, or a very glamourous and renowned film star - even though I have a lot of liking and love for him/her - I would not place my hand on his shoulder like I would do with my childhood playmate. I would just remain there with much awe and respect. That is reverence/ respect. Fear, reverence, and respect are almost the same thing.

What attitude is fear of God creating in the individual? I would say that it is humility. The 'fear of God' makes us humble. It enables us to look at and approach nature, the earth, and everything in it with respect.

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge"(Proverbs 1:7)