Cognitive linguistics has opened new avenues for Biblical studies in the last several decades. In particular, prototype theory, metaphor theory, and polysemy studies can shed light on the Biblical text. Prototype theory aids the Biblical scholar in understanding how semantic domains are organized in the mind. This leads to a clearer understanding of the relationships between words. A study of metaphor and metonymy also aids the Biblical scholar in understanding how meaning is extended, which leads to a proper understanding of polysemy. Understanding polysemy can provide a window into the mental connections made by language users. Cognitive linguistics has made new inroad into polysemy studies, clarifying how multiple meanings are related within a single word. However, what is challenging for Biblical studies is how to apply cognitive linguistics to a language fragment, which has no existing native speakers. Such is the case with Biblical Hebrew. One key area of Biblical studies that needs more examination is the concept of fear. Much has been written on fear in Biblical Hebrew, specifically the fear of God. However, implementation of prototype theory, metaphor theory, and polysemy studies, from a cognitive linguistics framework, will yield new insights for fear in Biblical Hebrew. In particular, this thesis pay special attention to the concept of fear within the book of Job in order to develop a more comprehensive understanding of fear in Biblical Hebrew. Job makes use of more words for fear than any other book in the Hebrew Bible.
To that end, Chapter One examines the cognitive linguistic methodology for implementing prototype theory, metaphor theory, and polysemy studies into Biblical Hebrew. Chapter Two examines the non-polysemous members of the semantic domain to determine their semantic ranges and nuanced meanings within the domain. This prepares the way for the examination in Chapter Three of the polysemous members of the semantic domain, examining the Joban author’s mental connections with fear. The conclusion will reveal the findings of this thesis, showing the organization of the semantic domain, the nuances and semantic range of each domain member, and the polysemous meanings seen within the domain.