χειμών

a tempest, the rainy season

Definition

The Greek word χειμών (cheimōn) primarily means 'winter' as a season, specifically the rainy, stormy period in the Mediterranean climate (Matthew 24:20, Mark 13:18, John 10:22, 2 Timothy 4:21). It also carries the sense of a severe 'storm' or 'tempest,' referring to violent weather at sea, as seen in the narrative of Paul's shipwreck in Acts 27:20. In a metaphorical context, it can describe a time of hardship or difficulty, though this usage is more implicit in the biblical text. The word's dual meaning is clearly distinguished by context: seasonal winter versus a literal storm.

Biblical Usage

χειμών is used six times in the New Testament across Gospels, Acts, and a Pauline letter. In the Gospels, it consistently refers to the season of winter, often in practical or prophetic warnings about travel and hardship (Matthew 24:20, Mark 13:18). John 10:22 uses it to date the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) as occurring in winter. In Acts 27:20, it describes the violent storm that endangered Paul's voyage. The final use in 2 Timothy 4:21 is a simple seasonal reference, urging Timothy to come before winter impedes travel.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek noun χειμών (cheimōn), which fundamentally meant 'winter' or 'storm.' It is related to the verb χεῖμα (cheima), meaning 'to pour' or 'to storm,' highlighting the association with heavy rain and inclement weather. The root concept is of a tempestuous, cold, or rainy period, a meaning retained in its New Testament usage.

Semantic Range

While primarily a descriptive term, χειμών gains theological significance in eschatological discourse. Jesus's instruction to pray that flight from tribulation not be in winter (Matthew 24:20, Mark 13:18) combines physical hardship with the symbolic distress of the end times. The storm in Acts 27:20 becomes a backdrop for God's providential protection and Paul's witness. Understanding the word enriches reading by connecting the literal challenges of weather to broader themes of divine timing, provision, and perseverance through trials.

In the ancient Mediterranean, winter was not merely a cold season but a period of halted travel, dangerous seas, and agricultural dormancy. Sea voyages were considered perilous (Acts 27:9-12), and overland travel could be hindered by rain-swollen rivers and muddy roads. This practical reality informs the warnings in the Gospels and Paul's request in 2 Timothy. The 'Feast of Dedication' in winter (John 10:22) was an indoor festival, partly due to the season. Modern readers may underestimate the severe logistical and survival implications of 'winter' in that era.

θύελλα (thyella, G2366) — a whirlwind or hurricane, more violent and sudden than a general χειμών storm. λαῖλαψ (lailaps, G2978) — a tempestuous windstorm or squall, often used poetically for a violent blast.

Word Details

Scripture References