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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies opens up new layers of meaning and interpretation, revealing the depth of the original text. The Greek word κλύδων (klydōn) is one such word that holds particular significance. Appearing in Luke 8:24, κλύδων is used to describe a violent surge or wave. This word is relevant not only for New Testament interpretation, where it appears in the context of a storm threatening the disciples’ boat, but also for understanding ancient Greek culture’s connection to the sea, which was often viewed as a realm of chaos and danger.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κλύδων, transliterated as klydōn [KLOO-dohn].

Etymology: The word κλύδων is derived from the root κλύζω (klyzō), which means “to wash over” or “to dash over.” This root emphasizes the idea of overwhelming waves or surges, which can wash over and overwhelm objects or people, symbolizing chaos or turmoil.

Part of Speech: Noun, masculine. As a noun, κλύδων follows the third declension pattern in Greek. This impacts how the word changes form based on its grammatical case (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative) and number (singular, plural).

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

Defining Meanings

1. A Surging Wave or Billow: The primary meaning of κλύδων is a “surging wave” or “billow.” It often refers to large, tumultuous waves that rise up and crash down, creating a sense of overwhelming force and power.
2. Figurative Sense of Turmoil: In a metaphorical sense, κλύδων can represent emotional or spiritual turmoil. This usage captures the feeling of being overwhelmed or tossed about by life’s challenges, much like a boat caught in a stormy sea.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Κῦμα (kyma) [KOO-mah]: Refers to a “wave,” especially one that is rolling or undulating. Unlike κλύδων, which implies a more violent surge, κῦμα can refer to gentler, more rhythmic waves.
2. Τρικυμία (trikymia) [tree-koo-MEE-ah]: Means “a storm” or “a tempest,” specifically referring to a more prolonged period of stormy weather, which may include multiple surging waves like those described by κλύδων.
3. Καταιγίς (kataigis) [ka-ta-EE-gis]: Describes a “hurricane” or “tempest,” often involving strong winds and violent storms, suggesting even more intensity and destruction than κλύδων.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender:
κλύδων is a masculine noun of the third declension. Below is the declension table for κλύδων:

Declension Class:
As a third-declension noun, κλύδων changes its ending based on its grammatical case and number. These endings are essential for identifying the word’s role within a sentence in Biblical Greek.

For more insights on Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicon studies of κλύδων reveal that it is used to convey both literal and figurative meanings in Greek literature and the New Testament. In Luke 8:24, κλύδων depicts the dangerous waves that Jesus calms, symbolizing His power over chaos. In a broader theological context, it suggests the challenges and trials that believers face, which can only be subdued through divine intervention. In classical Greek literature, κλύδων often describes the perilous nature of the sea and is sometimes used metaphorically to represent life’s unpredictable and tumultuous moments. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 8:24: “And they came to Him and woke Him, saying, ‘Master, Master, we are perishing!’ And He got up and rebuked the wind and the surging waves [κλύδονι], and they stopped, and it became calm.”
2. James 1:6: “But he must ask in faith without doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave [κλύδωνι] of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κλύδων, meaning “surging wave” or “billow,” is a powerful term that captures both literal and metaphorical concepts of turmoil and chaos. Its use in the New Testament provides insight into the natural world and the spiritual struggles faced by believers. Classical literature also reflects the word’s significance, showing the sea as a symbol of life’s unpredictable and often challenging nature.

Did You Know?

1. κλύδων is often used metaphorically to describe inner emotional turmoil or spiritual unrest.
2. The Greek concept of κλύδων reflects a broader cultural understanding of the sea as a domain of chaos, unpredictability, and danger.
3. In ancient Greek maritime culture, words like κλύδων conveyed both literal and symbolic meanings, often describing the dangers of sea voyages and life’s uncertainties.