[Greek] φήμη (phēmē), [Latin] fama: saying, report, news, rumor, fame, word, common report, divine utterance, reputation, gossip, opinion; Mt.9:26, Lk.4:14
Background Information:
Greco-Roman mythology: Pheme was the goddess of fame and gossip. Pheme was said to have pried into the affairs of the gods and mortals. She was described as one who initiates and furthers communication. Pheme would start to whisper about others until everyone knew about it. The people she favored were notable and renowned. Those who defied her were scorned and plagued with rumors. Her divine utterance (with a horn) cannot be stopped. The related Roman goddess was named Fama. Aischines’ Timarchus states “But concerning the life and deeds of me, an incontrovertible rumor spreads of its own accord throughout the city, and brings private deeds to the attention of all, and often even prophecies what is going to happen.” (346 B.C)
Old Testament: Isa.61:1-2 makes reference to a messiah who has been filled by the Spirit of the Lord God. This scriptural passage, having important Christological and doctrinal implications, encapsulates the Jewish expectation of the New Messiah would bring good news to the afflicted, brokenhearted, captive, and mournful Israelites. In Luke 4:18, Luke references Isa.61:1-2 as Jesus reads from Isaiah’s scrolls in the synagogue. As a result, Jesus claims that scripture is fulfilled upon hearing of this scripture. “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; He has sent me to bring good news to the afflicted, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, release the prisoners. To announce a year of favor from the Lord and a day of vindication by our Go; to comfort all who mourn.” Isa.61:1-2
New Testament: This term appears twice, indicating a report, news, word, or information. Although these situations differ, news (word) of Jesus’ actions had ultimately spread throughout the land. Jesus healed the two blind men. After failing to heed Jesus’ wishes to keep this event quiet, these men went out and spread the word about what happened. News of Jesus’ actions (teaching and miracles), guided by the Holy Spirit, spread throughout the whole region. In addition, Jesus reveals that prophecy has been fulfilled upon His reading of the Old Testament scripture of Isa.61:1-2.
Scripture:
“Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Holy Spirit, and the news of Him spread throughout the whole region.” Lk.4:14
Jesus’ actions and deeds were being known throughout the whole region in part through His appeal to the lowly and simple people. This provides an indication that Luke was writing to this audience.
“And news of this spread throughout that land.” Mt. 9:26
The crowd was amazed that Jesus could bring this dead girl back to life. Word of this news spread all over the land.
Conclusion:
Blasphemy, blaspheme, euphemism, fame, infamy
It is interesting to note that the Greco-Roman culture also dealt with rumors, gossip, fame, and infamy. This must have been a very big deal back then, even to have a goddess of fame and gossip. I can only imagine that the wealthy and powerful would wield power in releasing information to help or hurt others. Let’s not forget all of those Greek and Roman government officials seeking fame and fortune. (We could also say the same with our current culture). Then there were emperors who thought they were gods!
Rather than providing a good (eu-) sounding meaning (euphemism) for death (passing away), Jesus died an excruciating death on the cross.
Essentially, the Hebrews (Israelites) were seeking the good news of their promised Messiah. Later, Jesus claims that prophecy has been fulfilled in that He brings good news to all. It also interesting to see how blasphemy can be tied to scandal. One can become scandalized if one is offended by others’ “unsuitable” beliefs. The Jews were scandalized that Jesus would claim to be God. Because of this blasphemy, Jesus is put on the cross.
Recently, in the secular world, many feel scandalized by opposing ideas and thoughts. This is occurring on college campuses, where many students become offended by opposing ideas and speech. It seems people are finding more and more things to be offended about. One becomes fearful of upsetting or offending another one’s cultural sensitivities when putting on a cultural or social event. Even speaking engagements on campus are being disrupted and cancelled by those who oppose their viewpoints. And I thought colleges were places for the free exchange of ideas.