from σάλος; to waver, i.e. agitate, rock, topple or (by implication) destroy; figuratively, to disturb, incite:--move, shake (together), which can(-not) be shaken, stir up.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb σαλεύω (saleúō, `{{G4531}}`) derives from the noun σάλος (salos), which denotes a tossing, surging, or quaking, often associated with the motion of waves or the trembling of an earthquake. Fundamentally, σαλεύω signifies a state of instability or vigorous movement. Its core meaning encompasses "to waver," "to agitate," "to rock," or "to topple." By implication, severe agitation can lead to "destruction." Figuratively, the term extends to the realm of human experience, meaning "to disturb," "to incite," or "to stir up," implying an unsettling of one's composure, beliefs, or social order. The range of English translations—"move," "shake (together)," "which can(-not) be shaken," "stir up"—captures this spectrum from simple physical displacement to profound spiritual or cosmic upheaval.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of σαλεύω in the New Testament illustrate its diverse applications:
* **Physical Shaking:** The term frequently describes literal physical agitation. In [[Acts 4:31]], the place where the disciples were gathered was "shaken" by the power of the Holy Spirit, a tangible manifestation of divine presence. In eschatological contexts, σαλεύω is used to describe the cosmic shaking of the heavens and earth as signs preceding the return of Christ ([[Matthew 24:29]], [[Mark 13:25]], [[Luke 21:26]]). This signifies a radical disruption of the established order. The voice of God at Sinai is also depicted as having "shaken" the earth ([[Hebrews 12:26]]), emphasizing divine power and revelation.
* **Figurative/Metaphorical Shaking (Disturbance/Incitment):** σαλεύω is also employed to describe mental, emotional, or social agitation. In [[Acts 17:13]], the Jews from Thessalonica are said to have "stirred up" (agitated) the crowds in Berea against Paul, depicting malicious incitement. Similarly, in [[Acts 21:38]], an Egyptian is accused of having "stirred up a rebellion." More spiritually, [[2 Thessalonians 2:2]] exhorts believers "not to be quickly shaken from your composure or be disturbed" by false teachings concerning the day of the Lord, highlighting the importance of spiritual steadfastness.
* **Steadfastness and Immutability:** In a crucial theological passage, [[Hebrews 12:26-27]] contrasts "those things which can be shaken" (the created order) with "those things which cannot be shaken" (the Kingdom of God). This usage elevates σαλεύω to a profound theological concept, distinguishing between the temporary and the eternal. Likewise, [[Acts 2:25]] (citing Psalm 16:8) uses the passive form to affirm, "I shall not be shaken," referring to Christ's unwavering trust in God, serving as a model for believers' steadfastness.
### Related Words & Concepts
σαλεύω is closely related to other terms denoting movement, instability, or divine power:
* **σάλος (salos, `{{G4533}}`):** The root noun, meaning "tossing" or "surging," often of waves.
* **σεισμός (seismos, `{{G4578}}`):** "Earthquake," "shaking," or "commotion," frequently used for literal seismic events.
* **κινέω (kineō, `{{G2795}}`):** A more general term for "to move" or "to stir."
* **Antonyms/Contrasting Concepts:** The concept of σαλεύω is often contrasted with stability, steadfastness, and immutability. Related terms or concepts include:
* ἀμετακίνητος (ametakinētos, `{{G277}}`): "Unmovable," "steadfast."
* ἀσάλευτος (asaleutos): "Unshaken," "immovable" (not a distinct Strong's number but derived from σαλεύω).
* The "rock" or "foundation" upon which one builds their faith ([[Matthew 7:24-27]]).
* **Theological Concepts:** Stability versus instability, divine power and judgment, human steadfastness in faith, the nature of God's unshakeable kingdom, and eschatological transformation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of σαλεύω is profound, encompassing God's power, the nature of His kingdom, and the call to human steadfastness:
* **God's Sovereign Power and Judgment:** σαλεύω frequently underscores the omnipotence of God. His voice "shook the earth" at Sinai ([[Hebrews 12:26]]), and He is the ultimate agent behind the cosmic shakings of the last days ([[Matthew 24:29]]). This demonstrates His absolute control over creation and His capacity to bring about radical change or judgment. The shaking signifies divine intervention and a reordering of the cosmos according to His will.
* **The Unshakeable Kingdom of God:** The most pivotal theological use of σαλεύω is found in [[Hebrews 12:26-28]]. Here, the author contrasts the temporary, created order—which is subject to being "shaken" and removed—with the eternal, "unshakable" Kingdom of God. This passage asserts the permanence and stability of God's reign, His covenant, and His ultimate purposes, which transcend all earthly transience. Believers are called to "receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken," emphasizing the secure and enduring nature of their inheritance in Christ.
* **Human Steadfastness and Spiritual Resilience:** The concept of σαλεύω also applies to the believer's inner life. Christians are exhorted not to be "quickly shaken from your composure" or "disturbed" by false teachings ([[2 Thessalonians 2:2]]). This highlights the necessity of spiritual discernment, a firm grounding in truth, and unwavering faith. True faith provides an inner stability that enables believers to withstand external pressures, deceptions, and trials, remaining unmovable in their commitment to Christ.
* **Eschatological Transformation:** The shaking of the heavens and earth is not merely destructive but transformative. It signifies the removal of the old order to make way for the new heavens and new earth ([[Hebrews 12:27]]), where righteousness dwells. This shaking is part of God's redemptive plan, purifying and preparing creation for its ultimate fulfillment in His eternal kingdom.
### Summary
The Greek verb σαλεύω (saleúō, `{{G4531}}`) conveys a dynamic range of meaning, from literal physical "shaking," "wavering," and "toppling" to figurative "disturbing" and "inciting." It appears in contexts describing divine power manifesting in physical tremors ([[Acts 4:31]]), cosmic disturbances heralding the end times ([[Matthew 24:29]]), and the agitation of crowds by human instigators ([[Acts 17:13]]). Theologically, σαλεύω is profoundly significant, particularly in [[Hebrews 12:26-28]], where it distinguishes between the temporary, "shakable" created order and the eternal, "unshakable" Kingdom of God. This term underscores God's ultimate sovereignty and His capacity to bring about both judgment and transformation. For believers, σαλεύω serves as a vital reminder to remain steadfast in faith, rooted in the enduring reality of God's unmovable kingdom, even amidst the shakings of this present world.
TRV