κινδυνεύω

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word kindyneúō, represented by G2793, describes the act of undergoing peril. It is defined as being in a state of risk and is translated as to be in danger or to be (stand) in jeopardy. This term appears 5 times across 4 unique verses, illustrating various forms of peril faced in the biblical narrative.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The contexts in which G2793 appears highlight different kinds of threats. It is used to describe acute physical danger, as when the disciples' boat was filled with water during a storm and they were in jeopardy on the lake Luke 8:23. It also describes a state of constant, ongoing risk associated with the apostolic life, as when Paul asks why "we stand in jeopardy every hour" 1 Corinthians 15:30. Furthermore, the word is used for socio-economic and legal threats, such as when the Ephesian craftsmen's trade is in danger of being discredited Acts 19:27 or when the city officials fear they are in danger of being accused over an uproar Acts 19:40.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the sources and types of danger associated with G2793:

• G2978 laîlaps (storm, tempest): This is the direct cause of the physical peril experienced by the disciples on the lake, described as a storm of wind that put them in jeopardy Luke 8:23.
• G4714 stásis (dissension, insurrection, uproar): This word denotes the civil unrest that created legal peril for the city of Ephesus, as they were in danger of being questioned for the uproar Acts 19:40.
• G1458 enkaléō (to accuse, call in question, implead): This term specifies the legal nature of the danger in Ephesus, where the risk was to be called in question or formally accused because of the riot Acts 19:40.

Theological Significance

The use of G2793 carries significant implications for understanding the challenges within the biblical narrative.

• Physical Vulnerability: The disciples' experience on the lake demonstrates a state of jeopardy that is resolved not by human effort but by divine intervention, showing that peril can be a setting that reveals God's power Luke 8:23.
• The Cost of Faith: Paul's rhetorical question frames the Christian mission as a life of constant jeopardy. This suggests that a life dedicated to the Gospel is inherently one of risk and sacrifice 1 Corinthians 15:30.
• Conflict with the World: The events in Ephesus show that the message of the Gospel can put its followers in danger by disrupting established economic and religious systems, leading to opposition that threatens their reputation and freedom (Acts 19:27, Acts 19:40).

Summary

In summary, G2793 is a versatile term for peril that goes beyond mere physical harm. It encompasses the dangers posed by nature, the persistent risks of a life of faith, and the social and legal conflicts that arise from devotion to God. The word kindyneúō effectively captures the various states of jeopardy that characters in Scripture face, highlighting themes of human fragility, the cost of discipleship, and the frequent intersection of faith and worldly opposition.