χειμάζω

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.