Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words used in the New Testament is vital for a deeper grasp of biblical teachings and their cultural significance. The Greek word κλυδωνίζομαι (klydōnizomai), which appears in Ephesians 4:14, is particularly significant. It is derived from a nautical context, describing the action of being tossed or agitated by waves. This word provides a vivid metaphor in biblical interpretation, emphasizing instability and being driven by external forces, which can be crucial in understanding spiritual maturity and steadfastness.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κλυδωνίζομαι, transliterated as klydōnizomai [kloo-doh-NEE-zoh-my].

Etymology: The word κλυδωνίζομαι is derived from the noun κλύδων (klydōn), meaning “a surging wave” or “billow.” The verb form κλυδωνίζομαι adds a sense of action, meaning “to be tossed by waves” or “to be agitated like a wave.” This etymology paints a picture of instability, vulnerability, and being subject to outside influences.

Part of Speech: Verb, present passive or middle voice. As a verb, κλυδωνίζομαι appears primarily in the present tense, passive or middle voice, indicating an ongoing state of being tossed or influenced by external factors. It does not have an active voice form in the New Testament, emphasizing the subject’s passivity or the experience of the action rather than performing it.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. To Be Tossed by Waves: The primary meaning of κλυδωνίζομαι is “to be tossed by waves,” drawing from its nautical origins. It suggests being at the mercy of unpredictable forces, much like a small boat on a stormy sea.
2. To Be Agitated or Confused: Metaphorically, κλυδωνίζομαι is used to describe emotional or spiritual turmoil. It conveys the idea of being unsettled, confused, or swayed by various teachings or external influences.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Κλυδών (klydōn) [KLOO-dohn]: Refers to a “surging wave” or “billow.” It represents the physical manifestation of waves, while κλυδωνίζομαι focuses on the action of being tossed by these waves.
2. Ταράσσω (tarassō) [ta-RAS-soh]: Means “to trouble” or “to stir up.” It is used metaphorically to describe internal agitation or disturbance, similar to κλυδωνίζομαι but more often applied to emotional or psychological states.
3. Κινέω (kineō) [kee-NEH-oh]: Means “to move” or “to shake.” While it can refer to physical movement, it is also used metaphorically to indicate being mentally or spiritually shaken or stirred.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood:
κλυδωνίζομαι is found in the present passive or middle voice, indicative mood in the New Testament. This tense and voice combination indicates an ongoing action or state where the subject is being acted upon by an external force, rather than actively doing the action.

Person and Number:
The verb is conjugated in the middle/passive voice and can appear in the singular or plural. Below is a conjugation table for κλυδωνίζομαι in the Present Indicative:

For more details on Greek grammar and verb conjugation, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term κλυδωνίζομαι is examined across various Greek lexicons, revealing its rich semantic range. In the New Testament, it primarily appears in Ephesians 4:14, where it metaphorically describes spiritual immaturity and instability—being “tossed to and fro” by every wind of doctrine. Classical texts also use it to portray physical tossing by waves, providing a vivid image of vulnerability to external forces. Theological implications suggest a need for spiritual grounding to avoid being swayed by false teachings or deceptive doctrines. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Ephesians 4:14: “So that we may no longer be children, tossed [κλυδωνιζόμενοι] here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κλυδωνίζομαι, meaning “to be tossed by waves,” carries profound implications in both literal and metaphorical senses. It describes both the physical state of being battered by waves and the spiritual or emotional experience of being unsettled or swayed by external influences. Its use in Ephesians 4:14 captures the need for spiritual maturity to avoid instability. In classical literature, it frequently illustrates the unpredictable and chaotic nature of life, making it a significant word for understanding both ancient Greek culture and New Testament theology.

Did You Know?

1. κλυδωνίζομαι is closely related to seafaring terminology, reflecting the ancient Greek reliance on maritime imagery for describing life’s challenges.
2. The metaphorical use of κλυδωνίζομαι in the New Testament highlights the importance of spiritual stability and doctrinal soundness.
3. The imagery of being “tossed by waves” was commonly used in Greek philosophical and literary texts to describe the uncertainties of life and the quest for wisdom.