G4525
σαίνω
to wag (as a dog its tail fawningly), i.e. (generally) to shake (figuratively, disturb)
Transliteration
saínōPronunciation
(sah'-ee-no)Everything you need to know.
of Completion
This certifies that
Is on track to complete the Bible for the 1st time in 240 days.
Paul's Handkerchief is Bible study with a difference — going word-by-word through Scripture to reclaim the Ancient Near East context, romance, and mystery that modern translations often leave behind.
Only about 3% of people around the world who start the Bible ever finish it. The 3% Club is for those ready to break that cycle — reading the entire Bible at their own pace, backed by community and tools built to make finishing not just possible, but inevitable. You also get a certificate to celebrate your achievement.
Bible Cafe isn't just Bible study — it's a personal, intimate conversation with Him. Think less classroom, more kitchen table. It combines the original Coffee with Jesus experience with activities like quizzes, crosswords, journaling and more, all designed to let the Word shape your heart, not just your head.
Most English Bibles can't carry the full weight of what's in the original Hebrew and Greek. The F.O.G Bible Project exists to change that — three new translations built publicly (a Study Bible, a Reader's Bible, and F.O.G Jr. for younger readers), plus a word-by-word renewal of Strong's Concordance restoring the depths most translations leave behind. It is Jean Paul's lifelong work, unfolding in public — and you're invited in.
Jean Paul Joseph is the lead editor of the F.O.G Bible Project. He works from a personal encounter with Jesus first, then draws on the scholarship of respected Jewish and Christian scholars — because the church was Jewish before it was anything else, and those roots change everything about how you read Scripture.
Simply create an account and choose your preferred Bible and reading style. The app will track your progress and help keep you accountable to the rhythm of daily Scripture engagement.
to wag (as a dog its tail fawningly), i.e. (generally) to shake (figuratively, disturb)
σαίνω(saínō)
Strong’s Definition
to wag (as a dog its tail fawningly), i.e. (generally) to shake (figuratively, disturb)
akin to G4579 (σείω);
“That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
Strong's G4525: A verb originally meaning "to wag the tail" (as a dog), metaphorically developed to mean "to disturb, unsettle, or move" emotionally. In its sole New Testament usage in 1 Thessalonians, it describes being shaken or disturbed by afflictions or persecutions.
U- Unveiling the Word
The term σαίνω carries a fascinating development from its literal meaning of a dog wagging its tail to its metaphorical use in 1 Thessalonians 3:3, where it describes being unsettled or disturbed by trials. Paul uses this vivid imagery to warn believers against being emotionally swayed by persecution. Early church fathers drew on this imagery to illustrate how Christians should remain steadfast rather than being easily moved by difficulties. Today, this word reminds us to stand firm in faith rather than being shaken by opposition or trials.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
For compound words:
Not a compound word - it's a primitive verb
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
Morphological features as a verb:
Example conjugations:
Cross-references:
Send a Gift
This website is 100% donor-funded. Your generosity allows someone else to access this content for free.
Give a gift of $100 to sponsor a verse or page of your choice.
S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes the metaphorical development from physical to emotional disturbance. Thayer's traces its evolution from dog behavior to human psychology. LSJ provides extensive examples of both literal and figurative usage. Vine's highlights its unique appearance in Paul's letters. Strong's connects it to physical movement. LEH notes its rare usage in religious contexts. Moulton and Milligan document its metaphorical development in Hellenistic Greek.
T - Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
so that no one would be disturbed by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we have been destined for this. (1 Thessalonians 3:3)
Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
The word σαίνω powerfully illustrates how believers should remain steadfast in faith despite opposition. Just as King Jesus remained unmoved by trials, we are called to stand firm rather than being shaken by persecution. This proclaims the good news that our faith can be stable and secure in Christ, regardless of external circumstances.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4525: A verb originally meaning "to wag the tail" (as a dog), metaphorically developed to mean "to disturb, unsettle, or move" emotionally. In its sole New Testament usage in 1 Thessalonians, it describes being shaken or disturbed by afflictions or persecutions.
Part of speech: Verb
Tags: disturb, unsettle, persecution, trials, steadfastness, Thessalonians, Paul's letters, emotional state, faith, affliction