Astonishment
Charles Buck Theological Dictionary [1]
A kind or degree of wonder introduced by surprise. This emotion always relates to things of the highest importance; to things which appear too vast and extensive for the grasp of intellect, rather than to any thing of an intricate nature. The body marks in a striking manner the singular state of the mind under this emotion. The eyes are firmly fixed, without being directed to any particular object; the character of countenance, which was formed by the habitual influence of some predominant affection, is for a time effaced; and a suspension of every other expression, a certain vacuity, strongly notes this state of mind.
Webster's Dictionary [2]
(1): (n.) The object causing such an emotion.
(2): (n.) Dismay; consternation.
(3): (n.) The overpowering emotion excited when something unaccountable, wonderful, or dreadful is presented to the mind; an intense degree of surprise; amazement.
(4): (n.) The condition of one who is stunned. Hence: Numbness; loss of sensation; stupor; loss of sense.
King James Dictionary [3]
ASTON'ISHMENT, n. Amazement confusion of mind from fear, surprise or admiration, at an extraordinary or unexpected event.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia [4]
as -ton´ish -ment : Amazement; mental surprise, excitement, wonder; often the cause of the startled emotion, as in Deuteronomy 28:37 : "Thou shall become an astonishment." The chosen people, visited with calamities for idolatry would become a source of amazement to all nations ( Jeremiah 25:9 , Jeremiah 25:11 , Jeremiah 25:18 ); Solomon's' lofty and beautiful temple would be "an astonishment" ( 2 Chronicles 7:21 the King James Version). For original terms and fuller study see Astonished .
