### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ánemos**, represented by `{{G417}}`, is the primary term for **wind**. It appears **31 times** across **29 unique verses** in the Bible. While it most often refers to a literal wind or storm, it is also used by implication to denote the four quarters of the earth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G417}}` is frequently associated with the sea and demonstrations of divine power. Jesus rebukes the **winds** and the sea, causing a great calm and leading his disciples to marvel at his authority ([[Matthew 8:26]], [[Mark 4:39]]). The term is also used to describe the trials that test a person's faith, as in the parable where the **winds** blew and beat upon the house founded on the rock [[Matthew 7:25]]. In an eschatological context, angels gather the elect from the four **winds**, signifying the ends of the earth ([[Matthew 24:31]], [[Mark 13:27]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the environment and effects of the wind:
* `{{G2281}}` **thálassa** (the sea): This word for **sea** often appears alongside `ánemos` in narratives where Christ calms the storm, highlighting the combined forces of nature under His command ([[Matthew 8:27]], [[Mark 4:41]]).
* `{{G1727}}` **enantíos** (contrary): This describes the **wind** as an opposite or antagonistic force, hindering the disciples' journey across the sea ([[Mark 6:48]], [[Acts 27:4]]).
* `{{G4154}}` **pnéō** (to blow): This verb, meaning to **breeze** or blow, describes the action of the wind, whether in a destructive storm or a great wind that stirs the sea ([[Matthew 7:27]], [[John 6:18]]).
* `{{G2978}}` **laîlaps** (storm, tempest): This term for a **storm** or whirlwind is used with `ánemos` to describe the great storm that arose on the lake, endangering the disciples ([[Mark 4:37]], [[Luke 8:23]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G417}}` is significant, representing forces both natural and spiritual.
* **Divine Power:** Christ's ability to command the **winds** and the sea serves as a clear demonstration of His authority over creation, causing observers to ask, "What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!" [[Matthew 8:27]].
* **Spiritual Instability:** The term is used metaphorically to caution against being "tossed to and fro, and carried about with every **wind** of doctrine," linking spiritual immaturity to instability [[Ephesians 4:14]]. Similarly, false teachers are described as "clouds... carried about of **winds**" [[Jude 1:12]].
* **Trials and Judgment:** The **wind** acts as a force of trial that reveals the strength of one's foundation in Christ [[Matthew 7:25]]. It also appears as an instrument of divine judgment, as when a "mighty **wind**" shakes the fig tree in Revelation [[Revelation 6:13]].
* **Geographical Totality:** The "four **winds**" are used to represent the entirety of the created world, from which God will gather His people and over which His angels have authority ([[Revelation 7:1]], [[Matthew 24:31]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G417}}` encompasses more than just a meteorological phenomenon. It serves as a powerful biblical symbol for the trials that test faith, the instability of false teachings, and the awesome power of God over creation. From the literal storms on the Sea of Galilee to the figurative "wind of doctrine," **ánemos** illustrates the forces that can challenge humanity and reveal the supreme authority of Christ who commands them.
TRV