### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **cheimázō**, represented by `{{G5492}}`, means to **be tossed with tempest**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its base definition is to storm, or more specifically in its passive form, to labor under a gale.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G5492}}` is found in a dramatic narrative of a sea voyage. In [[Acts 27:18]], the travelers are described as "being exceedingly **tossed with a tempest**". This violent action from the storm directly leads to the crew's decision on "the **next** day" `{{G1836}}` to lighten the ship in an effort to survive.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context enhance the description of the event:
* `{{G4971}}` **sphodrōs** (exceedingly): This adverb modifies the action of `{{G5492}}`, emphasizing the extreme and violent nature of the storm's impact on the ship and its passengers.
* `{{G1546}}` **ekbolḗ** (a throwing overboard of the cargo): This noun describes the direct consequence of being tossed by the tempest, as the crew chose to "lighten the ship" [[Acts 27:18]].
* `{{G1836}}` **hexēs** (next): This word establishes the sequence of events, showing that the action of lightening the ship followed the day they were "tossed with a tempest" [[Acts 27:18]].
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This common verb is used here as part of the action taken in response to the storm, specifically "they **lightened** the ship" [[Acts 27:18]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{G5492}}` is significant in its single appearance.
* **Illustrating Peril:** The term powerfully conveys the life-threatening danger faced by those on the ship. The storm is not merely a backdrop but is actively and violently tossing the vessel [[Acts 27:18]].
* **Driving the Narrative:** The state of being "tossed with a tempest" is the direct catalyst for the subsequent actions in the story, namely the decision to lighten the ship `{{G1546}}`.
* **Emphasizing Helplessness:** The definition specifies the passive experience of the word ("to labor under a gale"), which underscores the crew’s position as being acted upon by an overwhelming and uncontrollable force.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5492}}` **cheimázō** is a specific and vivid term used once in scripture to describe a violent storm's effect on a ship. Its singular appearance in [[Acts 27:18]] captures a moment of extreme peril, serving as a crucial plot point that necessitates desperate action from the crew. It demonstrates how a single, well-chosen word can effectively communicate the intensity and danger of a tempestuous event.
TRV