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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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