Unveiling the Word

Understanding the Greek word κοπάζω (kopazō) is significant in biblical studies, particularly for its contextual use in the New Testament. This verb, which appears in Matthew 14:32, is often associated with the calming or ceasing of a storm or other tumultuous events. Its use in the New Testament brings to light the power of divine intervention and the peace that follows after a period of chaos or upheaval. By delving into this word, we gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural and spiritual undertones that permeate ancient Greek texts and how these meanings enhance our interpretation of biblical narratives.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κοπάζω, transliterated as kopazō [koh-PAH-zoh].

Etymology: The word kopazō derives from the Greek root κόπος (kopos), meaning “toil” or “trouble.” The verb form conveys the idea of something that was once active or agitated coming to a rest or calming down.

Part of Speech: Verb. As a verb, kopazō typically appears in contexts where there is a cessation of activity or a calming effect. In biblical Greek, it is often found in narratives describing natural phenomena, such as the calming of winds or the ceasing of a storm, and it can be in various tenses, voices, and moods depending on its use in the text.

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

Defining Meanings

1. To Abate or Subside: The primary meaning of kopazō is to indicate the lessening or calming of something that was previously violent or agitated, such as the wind or a storm.
2. To Cease or Stop: Another meaning of kopazō is to cease or stop entirely. This can be applied metaphorically to a halt in action, speech, or other forms of activity.

Exploring Similar Words

1. ἡσυχάζω (hēsychazō) [hay-soo-KHAH-zoh]: Means “to be quiet” or “to rest.” Unlike kopazō, which specifically denotes the calming of agitation, hēsychazō suggests a general state of calmness or stillness.
2. παύω (pauō) [PAH-oo]: This verb means “to cease” or “to stop,” much like kopazō. However, pauō does not necessarily imply that the thing stopping was previously agitated.
3. καταπαύω (katapauō) [ka-ta-PAH-oo]: Means “to bring to rest” or “to cause to cease.” This word emphasizes an external force bringing something to rest, as opposed to kopazō, which focuses on the natural calming of an agitated state.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood: Kopazō appears in various tenses such as the present, aorist, and perfect, with common usages in the indicative mood. The active voice is most frequently used, reflecting the action of calming or ceasing.

Person and Number: It is conjugated according to the Greek verb paradigms and can appear in different persons (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and numbers (singular, plural).

Aspect: The verb kopazō conveys the imperfective aspect when in the present tense, indicating an ongoing calming action. In the aorist tense, it conveys a perfective aspect, indicating the action of calming has been completed.

Conjugation Table for Present Indicative:

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The word kopazō is depicted across several lexicons as a term denoting the calming or ceasing of activity, particularly in natural contexts such as the wind or sea. In New Testament contexts, it appears in scenes where Jesus exercises divine authority to calm a storm, serving as a powerful metaphor for divine intervention bringing peace amidst chaos. In classical literature, kopazō similarly denotes the calming or stopping of physical elements, such as winds or tumultuous seas. The theological implications of the word suggest the power of God’s sovereignty over nature and life’s metaphorical storms. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 14:32: “And when they got into the boat, the wind stopped [ἐκόπασεν].”
2. Luke 8:24: “They came to Jesus and woke Him up, saying, ‘Master, Master, we are perishing!’ And He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waves, and they stopped [ἐκόπασεν], and it became calm.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

Kopazō is a compelling Greek verb found in both New Testament and classical Greek texts, primarily signifying the calming or ceasing of agitation. In the biblical context, it illustrates moments of divine intervention, where Jesus calms the elements, symbolizing peace, divine authority, and the restoration of order. Understanding kopazō enriches our appreciation of the cultural and theological nuances within Scripture and ancient Greek literature.

Did You Know?

1. The Greek word kopazō is closely related to the English word “pause,” both conveying a sense of stopping or calming.
2. In Greek mythology, the god Aeolus was believed to control the winds, calming them (kopazō) at his will.
3. The word kopazō is not only used for natural elements like wind but also metaphorically for calming emotions and conflicts in classical Greek texts.