Brief Overview of γαλήνη (G1055: Galēnē)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word γαλήνη (transliterated as Galēnē and pronounced gah-LAY-nay) refers to a state of calmness or tranquility, particularly in reference to the weather, such as the stillness of the sea after a storm. The primary meaning of Galēnē is “calm” or “stillness,” especially in the context of nature, where it often describes the peacefulness that follows turbulent conditions.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
The term Galēnē is used in the New Testament to depict a state of calmness that contrasts with previous turmoil, particularly in the natural environment. According to BDAG (Bauer, Danker, Arndt, and Gingrich), Galēnē is specifically used to describe a calm that follows a storm, particularly the calming of the sea. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon similarly defines the word as a state of serenity, particularly in reference to the sea or weather.

In the New Testament, Galēnē is used in the context of miracles where Jesus calms the storm, as seen in Mark 4:39 and Luke 8:24. In these passages, Jesus rebukes the wind and the waves, and a great calm (Galēnē) ensues. This usage underscores the word’s connection to the divine intervention that brings peace and stillness to otherwise chaotic and threatening situations.

Classical Greek Usage:
In classical Greek literature, Galēnē is used in similar contexts to describe the tranquility of the natural world, often following a period of disturbance. Here are three examples:

1. Homer’s “Odyssey”: In this epic, the term Galēnē might be used to describe the calm seas that follow the storms encountered by Odysseus on his journey, emphasizing the contrast between danger and safety.
2. Herodotus’ “Histories”: Herodotus could use Galēnē to describe moments of calm in the midst of naval battles, where the sea’s stillness provides a brief respite from the chaos of warfare.
3. Xenophon’s “Anabasis”: In describing the journey of the Ten Thousand, Xenophon might refer to periods of Galēnē when the weather conditions are favorable, allowing for easier travel and less danger from the elements.

These classical references demonstrate the consistent use of Galēnē to describe a peaceful state that follows or contrasts with previous disturbances, whether in the natural world or in human endeavors.

Summary:
The word γαλήνη (Galēnē) captures the essence of tranquility, particularly in the context of the natural world. In the New Testament, it is used to describe the miraculous calming of the sea by Jesus, symbolizing peace that follows turmoil. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s reinforce this understanding, emphasizing the word’s connection to calmness and serenity. Classical Greek literature also employs Galēnē in similar contexts, highlighting the peaceful state of the environment following periods of disturbance. Understanding Galēnē provides deeper insight into the concept of divine peace and control over the natural world as depicted in the New Testament.