Summary
Quick facts
- Strong’s Number
- G4531
- Original Word
- σαλεύω
- Transliteration
- saleúō
- Pronunciation
- sal-yoo'-o
- Part of Speech
- verb
- Root / Etymology
- from G4535 (σάλος);
- Frequency
- 17×
- Gematria
- 1436
Where it appears
Loading distribution…
Definition
Strong 1890 to waver, i.e. agitate, rock, topple or (by implication) destroy; figuratively, to disturb, incite
moveshake (together)which can(-not) be shakenstir up
from G4535 (σάλος);

Commentary
Contributors: · · · ·
Strong's G4531: A verb meaning "to shake, agitate, or cause to waver," used both literally for physical movement and metaphorically for spiritual/emotional disturbance. In New Testament usage, it often describes both cosmic upheaval and the testing of spiritual foundations.
U- Unveiling the Word
The term σαλεύω carries rich metaphorical significance beyond its literal meaning of shaking or agitation. First appearing in Matthew 11:7, where Jesus contrasts John the Baptist with a reed shaken by wind, it emphasizes spiritual steadfastness versus instability. The word appears in both apocalyptic contexts describing cosmic upheaval and personal spiritual contexts regarding faith's foundations. Early church fathers used this term to contrast the stability of God's kingdom with the shakeable nature of earthly powers. Today, σαλεύω reminds us that while everything around us may be shaken, God's kingdom remains unshakeable.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
For compound words:
Not a compound word - derives from root meaning of motion/agitation
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
Morphological features as a verb:
Example conjugations:
Cross-references:
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S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes both literal and metaphorical uses. Thayer's traces its development from maritime usage. LSJ provides extensive examples from classical literature. Vine's highlights its apocalyptic significance. Strong's connects it to instability and testing. LEH documents its Septuagint usage in prophetic contexts. Moulton and Milligan show its common usage in describing natural phenomena.
T - Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
As these were going away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind?" (Matthew 11:7)
Additional References:
Luke 6:48
Acts 2:25
Acts 4:31
Acts 16:26
Hebrews 12:27
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
The word σαλεύω powerfully illustrates the contrast between temporal instability and divine stability. While everything in this world can be shaken, King Jesus offers an unshakeable kingdom. This proclaims the good news that though trials may shake us, our foundation in Christ remains secure, inviting us to anchor ourselves in His unchanging truth.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4531: A verb meaning "to shake, agitate, or cause to waver," used both literally for physical movement and metaphorically for spiritual/emotional disturbance. In New Testament usage, it often describes both cosmic upheaval and the testing of spiritual foundations.
Part of speech: Verb
Tags: shake, disturb, testing, stability, foundations, apocalyptic, persecution, spiritual warfare, divine power, steadfastness