### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **laîlaps**, represented by `{{G2978}}`, describes a violent whirlwind or squall. It is defined as a **storm** or **tempest** of uncertain derivation. This specific term appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, highlighting its use for sudden and intense atmospheric disturbances.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G2978}}` is used to describe a literal, life-threatening weather event. Both Mark and Luke recount a "great **storm** of wind" that descends upon a lake while the disciples are sailing ([[Mark 4:37]]; [[Luke 8:23]]). This **storm** is so severe that the **waves** `{{G2949}}` fill the boat, placing the men in jeopardy ([[Mark 4:37]]; [[Luke 8:23]]). The word is also used metaphorically in 2 Peter to characterize false teachers as "clouds that are carried with a **tempest**," emphasizing their unstable and empty nature [[2 Peter 2:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the intense nature of a `{{G2978}}` storm:
* `{{G417}}` **ánemos** (wind): This word is directly paired with `{{G2978}}` in the Gospels to specify a "storm of **wind**" [[Luke 8:23]], indicating the driving force of the squall.
* `{{G2597}}` **katabaínō** (to descend): This verb captures the suddenness of the event in Luke's account, where the storm is said to "**come down** on the lake" [[Luke 8:23]].
* `{{G2949}}` **kŷma** (wave): This word describes the direct consequence of the storm on the sea, as the **waves** beat into the ship [[Mark 4:37]].
* `{{G1643}}` **elaúnō** (to push): In its metaphorical use, this word describes how clouds are "**carried**" or driven by the tempest, highlighting a lack of control and direction [[2 Peter 2:17]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic significance of `{{G2978}}` revolves around sudden, overwhelming force.
* **Natural Chaos:** The term depicts the raw power of nature that can create immediate danger and a sense of helplessness. The accounts in the Gospels use it to establish a scene of chaos, where a boat is filling with water and men are in jeopardy [[Luke 8:23]].
* **Metaphorical Instability:** In 2 Peter, the word is part of a larger metaphor for spiritual deception. False teachers are likened to phenomena that lack substance, such as "clouds that are carried with a **tempest**," ultimately leading to **darkness** `{{G4655}}` rather than providing guidance [[2 Peter 2:17]].
* **Sudden Upheaval:** The use of `{{G2978}}` underscores the abruptness of the event. The storm isn't a gradual gathering but a squall that "arose" or "came down" unexpectedly, disrupting a state of calm ([[Mark 4:37]]; [[Luke 8:23]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2978}}` is a specific and impactful term for a violent squall. Though used sparingly, it effectively conveys both the literal danger of a sudden sea **storm** and the metaphorical chaos caused by spiritually unstable influences. Whether describing a physical event on a lake or the nature of false teachers, **laîlaps** consistently points to a powerful, sudden, and disorienting force.
TRV