### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thýella**, represented by `{{G2366}}`, is defined as a **storm** or **tempest**. It is derived from a root word meaning "to blow." Appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, its singular usage gives it a highly specific and impactful meaning within the scriptures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2366}}` is in [[Hebrews 12:18]], where it contributes to a vivid description of the scene at Mount Sinai when the Law was given. The author explains that New Covenant believers have "not come unto the mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, nor unto blackness, and darkness, and **tempest**" [[Hebrews 12:18]]. Here, **thýella** is part of a list of terrifying phenomena intended to illustrate the fearsome and unapproachable nature of God under the Old Covenant.
### Related Words & Concepts
Two related words appear alongside **thýella** in its only context, deepening the imagery of the scene:
* `{{G1105}}` **gnóphos** (gloom (as of a storm):--blackness): This word is used in the same list in [[Hebrews 12:18]], directly linking the **tempest** with an overwhelming sense of **blackness** and stormy gloom.
* `{{G4655}}` **skótos** (shadiness, i.e. obscurity (literally or figuratively):--darkness): Also appearing with **thýella** [[Hebrews 12:18]], this term is used elsewhere to describe a spiritual condition, such as the "power of **darkness**" from which believers are delivered [[Colossians 1:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2366}}` is derived entirely from its pointed use in contrasting the Old and New Covenants.
* **Symbol of Old Covenant Fear:** The **tempest** at Sinai represents the terrifying manifestation of God's holiness under the Law, a sight that was unapproachable for the people of Israel [[Hebrews 12:18]].
* **A Reality Left Behind:** The primary theological point is that believers are explicitly told they have *not* come to this **tempest**. This highlights the New Covenant's foundation of grace and direct access to God, rather than fear.
* **Divine Power:** Paired with **blackness** and **darkness**, the **tempest** serves as a symbol of awesome and dreadful divine power, which stands in stark contrast to being called "out of darkness into his marvellous light" [[1 Peter 2:9]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G2366}}` **thýella** is one of the rarest words in the New Testament, its single use is pivotal. It is more than a meteorological term; it is a theological symbol for the fear and distance that characterized the giving of the Law. By contrasting this **tempest** with the believer's new position in Christ, the scripture powerfully illustrates the profound shift from the terrifying glory of Sinai to the intimate grace of the New Covenant.
TRV