Introduction

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies enhances our comprehension of the cultural, metaphorical, and theological nuances present in the New Testament. The Greek word θύελλα (thyella), translated as “storm” or “tempest,” is particularly significant because it conveys the intensity of natural events and the emotions they evoke in biblical narratives. This word provides insight into how ancient Greek culture and the biblical world viewed and described powerful natural phenomena, contributing to the depth of New Testament interpretation.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: θύελλα (thyella) [THY-el-la]
• Etymology: Derived from the root word θύω (thyo), meaning “to rush” or “to sacrifice,” which may metaphorically relate to the chaotic rush of a storm.
• Part of Speech: Noun, feminine (first declension).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• A violent storm
• A tempest or whirlwind

Similar Words: λαῖλαψ (lailaps) [LY-laps], another Greek word for “storm,” often conveys a sense of a sudden, violent windstorm. While θύελλα emphasizes the swirling, chaotic nature of the storm, λαῖλαψ is more about the intense, overpowering force of the wind and waves.

Further Insights: θύελλα is a first declension feminine noun, characterized by its vivid imagery of swirling, destructive winds. This word is used to describe natural phenomena that are not only physically overwhelming but also symbolically powerful in conveying chaos, divine power, or judgment. Below is a declension table for θύελλα:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek: Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Defines θύελλα as a “violent storm or tempest,” specifically describing a whirlwind or a tumultuous storm at sea or on land.

Thayers: Highlights θύελλα as a term for a violent, stormy wind or tempest, often used in biblical contexts to describe natural disasters or divine acts of judgment.

Vines: Recognizes θύελλα as a term depicting a forceful and chaotic storm, usually implying an overwhelming natural event.

LSJ: Expands the meaning to include metaphorical uses of θύελλα in classical texts, where it may describe not only literal storms but also social or political turmoil.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists θύελλα as “a whirlwind” or “tempest,” emphasizing its usage in New Testament passages to denote powerful and often unexpected storms.

Related Scripture References

• Hebrews 12:18 – “For you have not come to a mountain that can be touched and to a blazing fire, and to darkness and gloom and whirlwind (θύελλα).”

Classical Usage

Summary of θύελλα (G2366)

θύελλα (thyella) is a vivid Greek word used to describe a powerful and violent storm or whirlwind. This noun appears in the New Testament to emphasize natural forces’ overwhelming and chaotic nature, often symbolizing divine judgment or significant spiritual events. It also has extensive usage in classical Greek literature, where it conveys both literal and metaphorical storms. Understanding this term deepens the reader’s grasp of biblical narratives involving divine manifestations and natural disasters.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, storms were often seen as expressions of divine will or displeasure. The word θύελλα not only captures the physical reality of a storm but also carries the metaphorical weight of upheaval, whether in nature or human affairs. This dual meaning enriches its significance in both biblical and classical contexts.