σαλεύω

I shake, excite

Definition

The Greek verb σαλεύω primarily means 'to shake' or 'to cause to move back and forth,' describing both physical and metaphorical disturbance. In a literal sense, it refers to the shaking of physical objects, such as reeds in the wind (Matthew 11:7, Luke 7:24) or the powers of the heavens in eschatological judgment (Matthew 24:29, Mark 13:25). Metaphorically, it describes causing emotional or mental agitation, as in being 'shaken in mind' or troubled (Luke 21:26, Acts 2:25, quoting Psalm 16:8). It can also imply making something unstable or causing it to totter, as seen in the parable of the two builders where a house founded on rock does not shake (Luke 6:48).

Biblical Usage

Σαλεύω is used 14 times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels, Acts, and Hebrews. Its usage divides between literal physical shaking (e.g., reeds, heavenly bodies, foundations) and figurative inner disturbance (e.g., hearts, minds). In the Gospels, Jesus employs it in teaching about steadfastness and discernment (Matthew 11:7, Luke 6:48). In Acts 2:25, Peter quotes Psalm 16:8 using σαλεύω to express David's confidence that he will not be 'shaken' from God's presence. The word often appears in contexts of stability versus instability, whether in nature, architecture, or human emotion.

Etymology

Derived from the root σαλ- (sal-), related to shaking or oscillating movement. It is cognate with other Greek words implying agitation or quaking, such as σείω (seio, G4579) 'to shake.' The fundamental idea is of a rocking or wavering motion, which extended naturally from physical objects to metaphorical states of being unsettled.

Semantic Range

Σαλεύω is theologically significant for contrasting human instability with divine steadfastness. It highlights the security found in God, as in Acts 2:25 where David's heart is 'not shaken' because God is at his right hand. Jesus uses it to illustrate the importance of building one's life on the solid foundation of his words (Luke 6:48), contrasting with those shaken by trials. In eschatological passages (Matthew 24:29), it depicts cosmic upheaval signaling God's judgment and the end times, emphasizing that only God's kingdom is unshakable (cf. Hebrews 12:27-28). Understanding this word enriches reading by revealing biblical themes of faith, perseverance, and God's sovereign stability amid chaos.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, stability in construction and nature was vital for survival. A house that could not be 'shaken' (Luke 6:48) symbolized wisdom and foresight. Reeds shaken by the wind (Matthew 11:7) were proverbial for inconsistency and weakness. The shaking of heavenly bodies (Matthew 24:29) would evoke Old Testament imagery of divine judgment (e.g., Isaiah 13:13, Joel 2:10), familiar to Jewish audiences. Thus, σαλεύω carried connotations of vulnerability, impermanence, and cosmic disorder when apart from God's firm establishment.

σείω (seio, G4579) — Often interchangeable for physical shaking, but σείω can emphasize a more violent quaking (e.g., earthquake). κινέω (kineo, G2795) — Means 'to move' or 'set in motion,' generally less intense, focusing on causation of movement rather than agitation. ταράσσω (tarasso, G5015) — Specifically denotes troubling or disturbing emotionally or mentally, with a stronger sense of inner turmoil.

Word Details

Scripture References