Significance of Fear
Synonyms: Terror, Fright, Apprehension, Dread, Anxiety, Worry, Panic, Alarm, Horror, Trepidation, Unease
In Italian: Paura; In Dutch: Angst; In Finnish: Pelko; In Spanish: Miedo; In German: Furcht; In Swedish: Rädsla; In Malay: Takut; In French: Peur; In Portugese: Temer; In Polish: Strach
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Fear'
In Buddhism, fear is a complex emotion, a significant obstacle to enlightenment, and part of Mara's army. It can be a motivator for discipline, lead to suffering, and cloud judgment. Overcoming fear is crucial for spiritual progress and experiencing confidence.
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) An emotion that can motivate the showing of respect, but when it is the sole reason, the act is not considered genuine.[1]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (2): Bhikkhuni-vibhanga (the analysis of Nun’ rules)
(1) Another factor contributing to nuns following a wrong course, suggesting that apprehension can lead to improper actions or decisions.[2]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) This arises from the mistaken association of mind and body with a permanent self, leading to apprehension about harm.[3] (2) Fear is described as arising from craving, as explained in the Dhammapada verse, and it suggests that liberation from craving leads to the absence of fear, fostering a sense of security.[4] (3) This springs from lustfulness, but those who are free from it do not experience it.[5] (4) It is an emotion that arises from attachment and lust, but those free from these emotions do not experience it.[6] (5) This refers to an emotion of alarm or dread, as mentioned in the text.[7]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara
(1) Following a wrong course out of fear is considered one of the five qualities that can result in a resident monk being sent to Niraya Hell.[8] (2) A feeling of anxiety regarding potential danger or harm, influencing one’s moral judgement and actions.[9]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Experiencing this can subconsciously make one's pulse rate shoot up, affecting automatic bodily functions.[10]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) An unpleasant emotion caused by the perception of danger, threat, or pain, leading to avoidance or defensive behavior.[11]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) The text explains that fear arises from being deceived by the nature of feeling, particularly concerning life and death, but this fear can be overcome through understanding.[12] (2) The fear experienced by the Acariya upon hearing the tiger's roar prompts a deep introspection and a reevaluation of his commitment to the Dhamma, ultimately leading to a courageous and compassionate response.[13] (3) This is one of the most important kilesas, and one who is timid may use the method of taking the tigers as his teacher, to help him in his training and discipline, by making the effort to get rid of it.[14] (4) This is a motivator used by some to discipline the heart, which is also used as a way to prompt overcoming and grasping victory, to be the master with honor and dignity.[15]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) It is an emotion induced by a perceived threat or danger, also stemming from attachment to pleasure, affection, lust, and greed.[16]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) The followers of Assaji and Punabbasu accused the Bhikkhus of acting in this way.[17]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) A negative emotion that is removed from a meditator, allowing them to experience greater confidence.[18]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The peace and bliss experienced by a person who has been fearful is comparable to Nirvana.[19] (2) This term refers to a negative emotion, and it is associated with the experience of suffering and the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.[20]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Fear, or bhaya, is a mental suffering caused by various disturbing emotions, which is eradicated when the mind achieves a state of purity within the Dharma.[21] (2) Fear, also known as bhaya, is the sixth of Mara's armies, representing a significant obstacle to spiritual advancement, and underscoring the need for courage.[22] (3) Fear, denoted as bhaya, is the sixth army of Mara, symbolizing the paralyzing effect of apprehension.[23] (4) The bhikshu experienced fear, and the deva's threat highlighted the importance of fear in this context.[24] (5) An emotional response experienced during meditation in various settings, which the Buddha addresses by suggesting recollections.[25]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) This was named as the sixth army of Mara, indicating the psychological obstacle of apprehension that needs to be overcome.[26]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Fears of calamity resulting from an act can be conveyed through scriptural assertions, influencing people to avoid certain actions.[27] (2) Fire is presented as an example of a Thing perceived, which, when qualified by its form in consciousness, differentiates it from other homogeneous and heterogeneous things.[28] (3) One of the negative attributes that could influence teachers, leading to partial and local teachings.[29]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Fear, according to the text, arises from self-affection, which is identified as the stain of craving and greed.[30]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) One should attend them with "fear", because by associating with good companions, mindfulness and awareness will be completely pure.[31]
Hindu concept of 'Fear'
In Hinduism, fear is a multifaceted emotion encompassing shock, apprehension, and anxiety in the face of danger. It can trigger paralysis, flight, and physical responses. Fear is linked to emotional states, psychological imbalances, and spiritual concerns. It is also a sthayi-bhava, a contributing factor to death, and can affect relationships with the divine.
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Fear is an emotion that can trigger several ashta-sattvika transformations, such as becoming stunned (stambha), perspiration (sveda), horripilation (romanca), faltering of the voice (svara-bheda), and trembling (vepathu).[32] (2) Fear arises in the living entity when it is absorbed in material identification, fearing old age, disease, and other material conditions due to forgetfulness.[33]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A feeling of apprehension or distress, which the individuals are told they will not experience in the place of refuge.[34] (2) An unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.[35] (3) Fear is the emotion experienced by Nanda due to the sudden appearance of great darkness and the distress of the infant he was holding.[36] (4) Fear is an emotion that the recipient is encouraged to overcome, specifically concerning the sons that will be born.[37] (5) Fear is the emotion experienced by Kamsa upon seeing the elephant killed, contrasting with the happiness of the people in the grandstands.[38]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Fear is an emotion that can lead to a color change, manifesting as black or sometimes even white.[39] (2) Fear is an emotion that can lead to perspiration, a bodily fluid that makes the body damp.[40] (3) Fear does not manifest in individuals unless they are devotees, and it can arise from imposing forms, inherent qualities, or potent powers, commonly experienced by women and children out of profound affection.[41] (4) Fear is an intense emotion that can trigger a visible change in a person's complexion, known as vaivarnyam, where their color might alter.[42] (5) Fear is identified as an emotion that can lead to Romancha, the bodily response involving the standing of hairs on end, reflecting a heightened state of awareness.[43]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Apprehensions and anxieties regarding the divine being's solitude, which can be alleviated through learning sacred songs.[44] (2) The concerns of the speaker regarding their spiritual safety and the potential for slippage back into worldly cares.[45]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Devotees do not experience fear, even when faced with the Lord's form as time, which annihilates all creation, due to their devotion and the power of His holy names.[46] (2) This emotion influenced the kings' constant thoughts of You, shaping their mental state regarding Your presence.[47] (3) It caused the devotees to run away from the Lord in order to avoid wasting time in useless arguments.[48] (4) This describes the elimination of all forms of apprehension, terror, or anxiety concerning material existence, a permanent state to be unveiled to the dedicated practitioners.[49] (5) This is the emotion that the devotees felt, causing them to run away at the sight of someone coming in the distance because they were afraid of being challenged.[50]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Fear is a strong emotion experienced by Kamsa upon hearing of the infant's birth, causing him to tremble and act erratically. This fear was also related to the prophecy of his enemy's birth.[51]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The fear is what Yashoda mata experienced, she was afraid that Shri Krishna might be unwell due to Him sleeping for a long time, causing her unhappiness.[52] (2) Fear is an emotion experienced by individuals like Kamsa upon seeing Shri Bhagavan directly, indicating a lack of devotion.[53] (3) Fear is an emotion that the son of a gopa is told to abandon, specifically regarding the majesty or opulence of Bhagavan Shri Upendra, so that he can come closer.[54] (4) This is defined as santrasa, a feeling of anxiety or dread, from which Satyaloka is free.[55] (5) This does not exist in heaven, a place where the narrator resided, experiencing delight and full satisfaction, along with the absence of other negative experiences.[56]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Trembling in grief and fear, the Kaurava army fled from the battlefield after being subjected to Arjuna's relentless arrow shower.[57] (2) Fear gripped your warriors upon beholding the feats of Hidimva's son, causing them to become agitated and almost deprived of their senses.[58] (3) An unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, threatening, or has the capacity to cause harm.[59] (4) This emotion afflicts Takshaka, causing him to hide in Indra's upper garment and become insensible when brought near the sacrificial fire.[60] (5) Fear afflicted the troops who, after avoiding the range of Karna's and Bhima's arrows, stood at a distance to witness the combat, attributing their plight to the gods for the Parthas' sake.[61]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Fear is among the passions that pisachas possess, indicating their emotional capacity and vulnerability to subjection through various magical practices.[62]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Fear was a prevalent emotion among Yashoda, Nanda, and the other milk-men due to the mysterious and terrifying events involving Krishna and Putana.[63] (2) Vasudeva told the Brahmana not to have this and asked him to reveal its source.[64] (3) This refers to the emotion experienced by the people when they beheld certain portends, and also by the gods when defeated by the Daityas.[65]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) This emotion was not experienced by those who supported the mission, as they did not fear to expose their lives nor did they ever retreat in combat.[66] (2) That from which ascetics were freed by Rama, who also established peace in the Dandaka Forest.[67] (3) The ocean and the wind exhibit this emotion in the presence of Dashagriva.[68] (4) The Monkeys decided to die of hunger because they feared facing the wrath of Kakutstha, Sugriva and Lakshmana for exceeding the time fixed.[69] (5) The emotion felt by the people over Prince Asumanjas's dangerous behavior.[70]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Fear is an element of the terrific regions of darkness. These places are filled with dread and are the consequence of unrighteous actions.[71]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A feeling of apprehension that was unknown within Gautama's hermitage.[72]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) If one reads or causes the Purana to be read entirely through this motive, they may go to hell. It is an inappropriate reason for engaging with the text.[73]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Fear is dismissed by Lakshmana, who believes it has no place in the face of duty and justice, as he urges Rama not to succumb to fear and instead embrace his rightful destiny.[74] (2) According to the provided text, their fear and sorrow were dispelled when they beheld his stature.[75] (3) Fear is mentioned in the context of counsel and the actions of Ravan, who claims he will not act out of it, as the text describes.[76] (4) Fear is an emotion that Sita experienced when she saw Rama and noticed his changed appearance.[77]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A feeling that arises from the Tamas quality, leading to anxiety and apprehension.[78]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Fear is a state of being that causes the individual to consign themself to the protection of the lotus-eyed one that suffers no decay.[79]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Brahman is characterized by its freedom from fear, indicating a state of absolute security and immutability.[80]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Fear arises in the individual when they perceive a difference between themselves and Ishvara, or between the jiva and Brahman, leading to suffering.[81] (2) Fear is attained by an ignorant man because he perceives the one existent Self as many through ignorance and sees this Self as different from Brahman.[82] (3) Fear is enumerated as one of the many states of the mind detailed in the Brihadaranyaka, illustrating the breadth of mental experiences.[83] (4) An emotion arising from ignorance that vanishes with the removal of ignorance, according to a specific philosophical perspective.[84] (5) This is experienced by Brahman due to avidya, even though Brahman is the source of it for Agni and other gods.[85]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) Fear, alongside mortality, is a quality falsely ascribed to the cognitional Self, which does not possess the fearlessness that belongs to the highest Self.[86] (2) "Fear" is caused by the Lord, and it arises for those who perceive a distinction in the Self and do not know the oneness.[87]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) Fear is explained as stemming from the existence of a second entity, and Viraj himself experienced fear due to a false notion about his extinction, which was removed by the right knowledge of the Self.[88] (2) Fear is described as one of the many states encompassed by the mind.[89]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Fear is surrendered by a jivanmukta, leading to a state of fearlessness.[90] (2) This is a negative emotion that Atma does not experience, along with old age, death, and sorrow, as described in the text.[91]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) An unpleasant emotion caused by the threat of danger or harm, arising from the perception of separate existences.[92]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The fear of darkness and the fear of birth and death are addressed within the context of the sun's role and the practice of worship.[93]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) An emotion that the commander-in-chief will experience if a halo consists of two concentric circles.[94] (2) This will be present if the animals are found to cry at night.[95] (3) Fear is mentioned as a consequence of certain lunar events, such as when the moon passes to the south of specific constellations, leading to fear from fire, or when the lunar disc appears broken, causing fear of hunger, war, and robbers.[96] (4) Potential dangers or anxieties associated with the presence of wild animals within the limits of towns, varying based on the animals' behavior and location.[97]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) This is a state of being afraid during the sub period of the moon in the period of Saturn.[98] (2) This represents an emotional response to perceived danger, threat, or harm. It is associated with negative experiences and outcomes.[99] (3) This word is linked to the sixth house, which covers the emotional and psychological states, and is used to describe a feeling of distress and apprehension caused by the awareness of danger.[100] (4) Fear is an emotion of anxiety or apprehension, and its presence is linked to the influence of Saturn as the ruler of the year, as indicated in the provided text.[101]
From: Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Chapter on Medicine)
(1) Fear is a cause of diarrhoea, as it can aggravate the wind humour.[102]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) This is one of the parameters that is used to study the level of anxiety in individuals.[103] (2) This is characterized by a range of symptoms, where a majority of the subjects reported mild symptoms, followed by moderate and severe symptoms, according to the provided table.[104] (3) Regular chanting of Mantra is believed to wipe out this, anger and depression and help relieve disorders of the respiratory system, digestive system, circulatory system, speech, intellectual and cognitive systems.[105] (4) Fear is an emotional state assessed in the study, with a portion of patients experiencing it, potentially influencing their overall health and well-being.[106] (5) This is an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, and it was a factor during the lockdown.[107]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) This is an emotion, and it is one of the effects of the abnormal Vata in the body, affecting mental and emotional well-being.[108]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) Fear, or bhaya, relates to women and persons of the inferior type and is caused by Determinants such as acts offending one’s superiors, roaming in a forest, or seeing an elephant, represented by trembling hands and feet.[109]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Fear is the underlying emotion that compels Devas, Danavas, Gandharvas, Rakshasas, Birds, Reptiles, and even natural forces like the Sun and Moon to perform their duties and not transgress limits.[110] (2) This motive for false deposition arises from the suspicion that if the truth were told, the consequences could involve ruin or financial suffering from another party.[111]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) Describes another tactic employed by celestial beings to challenge Yogis, manifested as terrifying forms during meditation.[112]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) Fear is identified as one of the agencies that can cause an abnormal excess of vayu, potentially leading to an intense thirst.[113]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Fear is identified as a driving force behind actions related to poison, suggesting that it can prompt certain behaviors or decisions in response to perceived threats or dangers.[114]
Jain concept of 'Fear'
In Jainism, fear stems from passion, triggered by anxiety, threats, or encountering frightening objects. It manifests as an emotional response tied to mental vulnerability or the influence of fear-karma. This fear is considered a quasi-passion.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Fear manifests as thought-activity of fear itself, making others afraid, terrifying actions, and pitilessness, highlighting that the experience and instigation of fear, along with a lack of compassion, are its defining features.[115] (2) The Master is different from this world, overcome by anger, greed, and fear, and is not perceived by stupid people.[116] (3) There was fear of censure only, which indicates that the only concern was avoiding criticism or disapproval during Ajita Svamin's rule.[117] (4) Fear is a factor that has caused the country to become depopulated, as mentioned by Rama after inspecting the area.[118] (5) This was the result of passion[119]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) A quasi-passion triggered by anxiety or perceived threats.[120]
The concept of Fear in local and regional sources
Fear is defined as an unpleasant emotion stemming from perceived danger, existing in different forms throughout life. It is a core concept in the text, impacting characters through anxiety, apprehension, and driving their actions, as well as being something that can be overcome.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Fear filled the heart of the merchant's wife upon hearing Matsyendranath's question, as she worried about a potential curse.[121] (2) An emotional state of being afraid, which a person claims not to experience despite facing criticism.[122] (3) Janardan gave assurance that he should not fear, indicating a situation where someone was experiencing anxiety or apprehension before Janardan's intervention.[123] (4) "Fear" is what Surdas is freed from by King Akbar, indicating a release from anxiety and the restoration of his confidence and peace of mind.[124] (5) Fear describes Eknath's emotional state as he approaches the fakir, indicating his apprehension.[125]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Fear is identified as the only true sin, as it leads to weakness and the forgetting of one's inherent omnipotent power, thus causing misery.[126] (2) Releasing all attachment, anger, and this allows one's soul to go unto the Lord.[127] (3) An emotion that is destroyed by the highest form of love, rendering individuals fearless even in the face of extreme danger.[128] (4) Fear does not disturb the sage, whose ocean-like heart remains calm and unshaken, regardless of the influx of worldly experiences like misery or happiness.[129] (5) Fear is an instinct shared with animals, which humans possess the capacity to control and master.[130]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Fear, along with other negative states of thought, is identified as a primary cause of detrimental conditions such as loneliness, depression, disease, and lack.[131] (2) Fear, along with weakness, shall desert men's lives when the spiritual realization described in Savitri takes hold, ushering in an era of profound strength and happiness.[132] (3) The presence of too many tests for fear created an environment where clear knowledge of the person was not attained.[133] (4) Ahalya interprets Viswamitra's words as highlighting his fear, suggesting he views her case by substituting women of his family and suspecting young men.[134] (5) Fear is another good poem by Baldoon Dhingra, notable for its haunting ending line, a passionate cry from the near-artist.[135]
From: Gommatsara by Acharya Nemichandra
(1) An animate feeling aroused by seeing a fearful object, attention to it, mental weakness, or the premature operation of fear-karma.[136]
From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages
(1) Fear indicates a feeling of anxiety, which is absent in the description of Abhayagata, according to the text, suggesting a state of confidence.[137]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) This emotion caused the Yakas to flee from the men, dropping the treasure they were dividing.[138] (2) A feeling that the Princess believed would not be present after the Prince's death, allowing them to remain.[139] (3) An emotional response that drives various characters to act in ways that result in fleeing from the man in the story.[140] (4) The emotion experienced by both Sigiris Sinno and the other giant during their encounter.[141]
The concept of Fear in scientific sources
Fear is explored in diverse contexts, from dental anxiety to the experience of HIV patients, healthcare workers, and families. It manifests as a significant factor influencing behaviors like disclosure, pain perception, and decision-making, and it can be influenced by various factors like inflammatory cytokines. Fear is also studied as a response to danger and a mediator of mental health.
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Fear, often associated with stigma or the unknown, can be a significant barrier preventing individuals from initiating the help-seeking process for suspected dementia.[142] (2) Fear is an emotion reported by participants, indicating a level of apprehension or alarm concerning the pandemic and its consequences.[143] (3) Fear is an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat, experienced by Spanish university students during COVID-19.[144]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) This emotion was the second most common in food waste tweets, representing 19% of the total.[145] (2) Fear is an emotion that appears in President Trump's tweets, detected in a small percentage and associated with words related to alerts and attacks.[146] (3) During the current pandemic period, fear has understandably exerted a significant influence on how individuals conduct their everyday activities, serving as a protective mechanism for both individuals and the population.[147]
From: African Journal of Primary Health Care and Family Medicine
(1) An emotional response felt by almost a quarter of the participants, representing a specific psychological deterrent that influences the decision-making process regarding seeking necessary treatment for eye issues.[148] (2) This was a feeling illustrated by a patient who had received inadequate information regarding what to expect from a stereotactic breast biopsy performed with imaging techniques.[149] (3) Parents put fear in the adolescents as a strategy to have them stick to the advice they gave, to prevent pregnancies and STIs, influencing behavior.[150]
From: South African Family Practice
(1) A prevalent emotional response among participants regarding the possibility of acquiring the acute respiratory infection or experiencing severe complications due to pre-existing health complications.[151] (2) An unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat, and it impacts the choices made by women.[152] (3) This is a significant factor influencing patients' reluctance to share their diagnosis, encompassing the fear of blame, rejection, discrimination, isolation, and violence, all of which contribute to the challenges faced by those with HIV.[153]
From: Asian Journal of Pharmaceutics
(1) Trauma modulates amygdala and medial prefrontal responses to consciously attended fear.[154] (2) A concern about anesthesia in adults undergoing surgery. Some fears include surgical failure, loss of personal identity, pain after surgery, paralysis after surgery, unsuccessful recovery, and death.[155]
From: International Journal of Pharmacology
(1) The amygdala is a key player in the expression of this emotion, and its regulation by the medial prefrontal cortex can be influenced by ciprofloxacin.[156]
From: South African Journal of HIV Medicine
(1) This is the emotion that patients once experienced due to the diagnosis, which has been gradually shed through support groups and individual interactions, contributing to a more positive outlook on the condition.[157]
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) According to the text, fear is listed as one of the emotions, and it is therefore considered relevant in the context of emotional and psychological states.[158] (2) The anticipation of potential harm or negative outcomes can trigger responses that are deeply intertwined with neural systems and impact reward evaluation and motivation.[159] (3) This is an emotion experienced towards God, sometimes linked with guilt and release, particularly within a highly religious context.[160]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) Within the context of the text, fear is listed among the stations that scholars most frequently mention in spiritual wayfaring.[161]
From: South African Journal of Psychiatry
(1) Fear is a symptom reported by mothers who had experienced family violence, and the study aimed to understand the psychological impact of the issue.[162] (2) This is an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat, and is experienced by families.[163]
From: International Journal of Pharmacology
(1) An emotion that can be influenced by inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus, and whose memory retention can be reduced by doxycycline.[164]
Classical concept of 'Fear'
From: The History of Herodotus
(1) Fear gripped the commanders of the fleet due to the immense loss of ships, prompting them to fortify their camp with a palisade.[165] (2) An emotion cautioned against, as it can hinder action and prevent the performance of deeds, with an emphasis on maintaining courage and accepting potential negative outcomes.[166]
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) The text mentions that many people do not obey the sense of shame, but only fear, indicating that fear is a motivator for some people, causing them to abstain from bad acts through fear of punishment.[167] (2) The text suggests that courage is more concerned with feelings of fear than with confidence, as the ability to face and overcome fear is a key aspect of bravery.[168] (3) The compulsion by rulers to act bravely is driven by fear, not shame, and it is also the fear of painful consequences rather than disgrace.[169] (4) It is an emotion that can be experienced in excess or deficiency, leading to vices such as cowardice or rashness. Experiencing it appropriately and from the right motive is a characteristic of valor.[170] (5) The text defines "fear" as the expectation of evil, noting that while we fear many evils, the brave man is not concerned with all of them, as fearing some things is right and noble.[171]
From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)
(1) "Fear" is a significant factor in the Country Mouse's decision, as the constant interruptions and dangers in the town make him prefer the safety of his simple life.[172] (2) Fear is the primary emotion experienced by humans upon first encountering the camel, causing them to initially run away from the camel.[173] (3) An emotion experienced by the lion after being wounded by the bowman's arrow, leading to a hasty retreat.[174] (4) Fear is the emotion experienced by the Hunter when offered the opportunity to see the Lion, causing him to decline and reveal his lack of true courage.[175] (5) The Stag is blinded by Fear when running from the hounds, which leads to it seeking shelter in the ox-stall.[176]
From: The Argonautica (English translation)
(1) An emotion that held them, related to the potential consequences of a decision, underscoring the uncertainty and the stakes involved.[177] (2) The text mentions a horrible fear wrought on her to bethink her of flight when she sinned, showing the impact that fear can have on decisions.[178] (3) A feeling that checked Chalciope's soul, preventing her from immediately asking Medea for help.[179] (4) The text indicates that fear seized those who heard the words spoken, demonstrating the impact and emotional response to the information shared within the group.[180]
From: The Book of the Dead
(1) Fear is an emotion related to the potential dangers in the underworld, such as the heart being taken away or the deceased dying a second time.[181]
From: Legends Of The Gods
(1) Fear of Osiris is set in all lands, and his name is held pre-eminent because of their love for him.[182]
From: The Gods of the Egyptians Vol 1
(1) The text mentions the fear of thee, indicating respect or awe inspired by a deity.[183] (2) The fundamental motive in man for worshipping animals was probably fear, due to the dangerous physical conditions of the country and the presence of large and deadly creatures.[184]