χειμάζομαι

I am storm-tossed

Definition

The verb χειμάζομαι (cheimazomai) means to be caught in a violent storm, to be tempest-tossed, or to suffer distress from severe weather. In its literal sense, it describes a ship being battered by a storm, as seen in its sole New Testament occurrence in Acts 27:18, where the crew of Paul's ship 'were violently storm-tossed.' Figuratively, the word can extend to the experience of being overwhelmed by tumultuous circumstances or severe trials, though this extended meaning is not explicitly used in the biblical text. The core idea is of being at the mercy of a powerful, uncontrollable natural force.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 27:18, within the detailed narrative of Paul's perilous sea voyage to Rome. It is used in a strictly literal, nautical context to describe the ship and its passengers being violently assaulted by a storm (a 'nor'easter' or 'Euraquilo'). The usage is vivid and descriptive, highlighting the extreme danger and helplessness of the situation.

Etymology

Derived from the noun χειμών (cheimōn, G5494), meaning 'winter,' 'storm,' or 'tempest.' The verb form χειμάζομαι is in the passive voice, meaning 'to be wintered upon' or 'to be storm-beaten,' emphasizing the subject's experience of being acted upon by the storm. It belongs to a family of words related to harsh weather and seasonal adversity.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word powerfully illustrates a theme of divine providence and rescue amidst seemingly hopeless circumstances. In Acts 27, the storm represents the chaos and danger of the world, while Paul, as God's messenger, becomes a beacon of hope and salvation for all on board. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of the passage by emphasizing the severity of the trial and the magnitude of God's deliverance, serving as a metaphor for God's faithfulness in the storms of life.

For people in the ancient Mediterranean, sea travel was notoriously dangerous, especially outside the summer sailing season. A storm like the one in Acts 27 was a life-threatening crisis where human skill was often useless. The word χειμάζομαι would have evoked immediate and visceral fear of shipwreck, drowning, and loss of cargo—a common and dreaded reality. This cultural understanding amplifies the desperation of the scene and the miracle of their survival.

σειόμενος (seiomenos, G4579) — Specifically means 'shaken' or 'agitated,' often by an earthquake or storm, but is a more general term for violent motion. θυμόνω (thumono) — A rare verb related to a tempest or hurricane, emphasizing the storm's violent passion or fury.

Word Details

Scripture References