κοπάζω

I cease, drop

Definition

κοπάζω (kopazō) means to cease, stop, or become still, often describing the calming of natural forces or the end of a state of agitation. In its three New Testament occurrences, it specifically refers to the calming of wind and waves, as when Jesus commands the storm to 'be still' in Mark 4:39. The word implies a sudden or complete cessation of violent motion, moving from a state of turbulence to one of peace. While all uses describe weather phenomena, the term can conceptually extend to the idea of any raging force being subdued.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used exclusively in the Gospels to describe Jesus miraculously calming storms at sea. In Matthew 14:32 and Mark 6:51, it describes the wind ceasing after Jesus walks on water and enters the boat. In Mark 4:39, Jesus directly commands the wind to 'be still' (κοπάζω), resulting in a great calm. The usage consistently highlights Jesus's divine authority over chaotic natural forces.

Etymology

Derived from κόπος (kopos), meaning 'labor,' 'trouble,' or 'weariness.' The verb κοπάζω thus carries the sense of 'growing weary' or 'ceasing from labor,' which evolved to mean 'to abate' or 'to stop.' This connection suggests the calming of something that has been exerting force or causing trouble.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it demonstrates Jesus's mastery over creation, affirming his divine identity and authority. The command for the wind and waves to 'cease' (κοπάζω) directly parallels God's power over chaos in the Old Testament (e.g., Psalm 107:29). Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of these miracles, emphasizing that Jesus doesn't just soothe but authoritatively commands the natural order into submission, a key sign of the Messiah's power.

For people in a maritime culture like first-century Galilee, sudden storms on the Sea of Galilee were a real and deadly danger. The word κοπάζω, describing the wind 'dropping' or 'ceasing,' would resonate deeply with fishermen and travelers who knew the relief of a storm abating. Jesus's command thus addresses a fundamental cultural fear, demonstrating power over a force they could not control.

σιγάω (sigaō, G4601) — to be silent or keep quiet, often used for people or speech; ἡσυχάζω (hēsychazō, G2270) — to be still, quiet, or at rest, often implying a peaceful state; παύω (pauō, G3973) — to stop, cease, or bring to an end, a more general term for cessation.

Word Details

Scripture References