CategoryArchaic Word / Worship and Respect Term
Modern Equivalentdeep respect; godly fear; honor.
KJV Word TypeNoun / verb
DefinitionDeep respect, awe, honor, or godly fear. In Scripture it may describe proper fear of God, respect for holy things, or honorable conduct toward others.
Key Verses"God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him." (Psalm 89:7); "Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband." (Ephesians 5:33)
KJV Usage NoteCan describe awe toward God or respectful honor in human relationships depending on context.
Common MisunderstandingIt is not casual politeness only; in biblical usage it often carries a sense of awe, fear, or solemn honor.
EtymologyFrom Latin reverentia, meaning awe or respect.