Strong’s G4535: A noun denoting the tossing or surging motion of the sea, particularly in stormy conditions. Used in Luke’s Gospel in Jesus’s apocalyptic discourse to describe the roaring and agitation of the seas as a sign of the end times, symbolizing global upheaval and distress.

U- Unveiling the Word

The term σάλος appears in Luke 21:25 as part of Jesus’s eschatological discourse, describing the tumultuous conditions preceding His return. Originally a maritime term for rough seas, it carries profound apocalyptic significance, representing both physical and social upheaval. Early church fathers saw in this word a picture of the world’s instability contrasted with Christ’s unchanging kingdom. Today, σάλος reminds us that while the world may be in turmoil, believers can find stability in Christ.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σάλος, salos, /sal’-os/
• Pronunciation Guide: “sal” (like ‘sal’), “os” (like ‘os’ in ‘moss’)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Root word: Proto-Indo-European *swel- (to wash)
• Related to ancient seafaring terminology
• No prefixes or suffixes
• Primitive Greek noun

D – Defining Meanings

• Tossing of the sea
• Agitation of waves
• Turbulence
• Upheaval

For compound words:
Not a compound word – it’s a primitive noun

Translation Options:

• “surge” – emphasizes motion
• “roaring” – captures sound aspect
• “turbulence” – broader application

E – Exploring Similar Words

• κλύδων (klydōn) /kloo’-dohn/ – wave, surge See G2830 – similar concept
• ταραχή (tarachē) /tar-akh-ay’/ – disturbance See G5016 – related concept
• ζάλη (zalē) /dzal’-ay/ – surge See G2366 – similar meaning

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a noun:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: Second declension

Example forms:

• Nominative singular: σάλος
• Genitive singular: σάλου
• Dative singular: σάλῳ
• Accusative singular: σάλον

Cross-references:

• Related verb: σαλεύω (to shake)
• Related adjective: σαλευτός (shakeable)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its maritime origins and apocalyptic usage. Thayer’s traces its development from literal to metaphorical meaning. LSJ provides extensive examples from maritime literature. Vine’s highlights its eschatological significance. Strong’s connects it to turbulent motion. LEH notes its use in prophetic contexts. Moulton and Milligan show its technical nautical usage.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay among nations, in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves” (Luke 21:25)

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The word σάλος powerfully illustrates the contrast between worldly turmoil and kingdom stability. When King Jesus spoke of end-time signs, He used this word to help us recognize the temporary nature of earthly upheaval. This proclaims the good news that despite global chaos, Christ offers unchanging peace and security in His eternal kingdom.

D – Did You Know?

1. Ancient mariners used σάλος technically to describe specific sea conditions.
2. Early Christian apocalyptic literature expanded its usage to describe social upheaval.
3. The word influenced early Christian art depicting the end times.

Strong’s G4535: A noun denoting the tossing or surging motion of the sea, particularly in stormy conditions. Used in Luke’s Gospel in Jesus’s apocalyptic discourse to describe the roaring and agitation of the seas as a sign of the end times, symbolizing global upheaval and distress.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: turbulence, sea, eschatology, Luke’s Gospel, apocalyptic signs, end times, maritime terms, distress, upheaval, Jesus’s teaching​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​