Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital in biblical studies as it unlocks deeper meanings and contexts within the New Testament. The Greek word θορυβέω (thorybéō) is particularly significant because it means “to disturb,” “to make noise,” or “to cause a commotion.” This word appears in the New Testament in contexts where confusion, uproar, or emotional agitation occurs, providing insight into the social and emotional dynamics present in biblical narratives. By examining the usage of θορυβέω, we gain a better understanding of early Christian teachings on order, peace, and the reactions of crowds or individuals to significant events or teachings. It also sheds light on the cultural perceptions of chaos and calm in ancient Greek society.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: θορυβέω (thorybéō) [tho-ry-BEH-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from the root θόρυβος (thórybos), which means “noise,” “commotion,” or “uproar.” The verb form θορυβέω refers to the act of creating noise, disturbance, or agitation.
• Part of Speech: Verb; used to describe the action of causing a disturbance, uproar, or agitation.
• Grammatical Details: Regular verb; conjugated to indicate different tenses, voices, and moods.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To disturb: To interrupt the peace or order of a situation or place.
• To make noise: To create a loud or chaotic sound.
• To cause a commotion: To incite disorder or confusion among a group or in a setting.

Similar Words: ταράσσω (tarássō) [ta-RAS-so] is another Greek verb meaning “to trouble” or “to stir up.” While ταράσσω often implies stirring up internal emotions or causing inner turmoil, θορυβέω focuses more on the outward commotion or disturbance, especially in a public setting. Another related word is ἀκαταστασία (akatastasía) [a-ka-ta-sta-SEE-a], meaning “disorder” or “instability,” which refers to a state of confusion or unrest rather than the act of causing it.

Further Insights: As a verb, θορυβέω follows a common conjugation pattern in Greek grammar. Below is a table with the present indicative active form of θορυβέω:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: θορυβέω is defined as “to make a noise, to cause a commotion, to disturb.” BDAG emphasizes its use in contexts where crowds or groups are stirred into an uproar, either in response to a provocative statement or an unexpected event.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer’s describes θορυβέω as “to make a noise or tumult,” with a focus on its usage in passages where it denotes an outcry or confusion among a group. It highlights the word’s application in describing both physical noise and metaphorical agitation.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s discusses θορυβέω in terms of its use to describe public disturbances or uproars, often in response to a controversial event or statement. The dictionary notes the word’s application in emphasizing the emotional or social impact of such disturbances.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): The LSJ lexicon provides a comprehensive overview of θορυβέω, from its primary meaning of “to make noise” or “to cause a commotion” in everyday contexts to its more abstract uses in literature and philosophy, where it may signify emotional or social turmoil.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: G2350. Strong’s defines θορυβέω as “to clamor, to cause a tumult,” noting its usage in describing instances where crowds are incited to loud or chaotic behavior, often due to provocative or unexpected events.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 9:23: “And when Jesus came into the ruler’s house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise (θορυβούμενον),”
• Mark 5:39: “And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado (θορυβεῖσθε), and weep? The damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.”
• Acts 20:10: “And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble (θορυβεῖσθε) not yourselves; for his life is in him.”

Classical Usage

Summary of θορυβέω (G2350)

The Greek verb θορυβέω (thorybéō) primarily means “to disturb,” “to make noise,” or “to cause a commotion.” It is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts in the New Testament and classical literature. In biblical teachings, it describes the outward expressions of chaos, confusion, or emotional upheaval, often in response to significant events, teachings, or miraculous occurrences. Understanding θορυβέω helps in interpreting biblical passages related to public disturbances, emotional responses, and the need for peace and order in both spiritual and social settings, providing insights into both ancient Greek thought and Christian values.

Did You Know?

The word θορυβέω is closely related to θόρυβος (thórybos), which means “noise” or “uproar.” In ancient Greek society, noise and uproar were often associated with social instability or political unrest. In dramatic and rhetorical literature, θορυβέω could be used metaphorically to describe not only literal noise but also emotional turmoil or confusion within a person or group. This rich linguistic background enhances our understanding of its usage in the New Testament, where disturbances or uproars often highlight the tension between divine peace and human chaos.