G4694
σπιλάς
a ledge or reef of rock in the sea
Transliteration
spilásPronunciation
(spee-las')Everything you need to know.
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a ledge or reef of rock in the sea
σπιλάς(spilás)
Strong’s Definition
a ledge or reef of rock in the sea
of uncertain derivation;
“These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
Strong's G4694: A feminine noun referring to a hidden rock or reef in the sea, metaphorically describing dangerous people who threaten the church's spiritual well-being. In Jude's epistle, it pictures false teachers as hazardous obstacles that can shipwreck one's faith.
U- Unveiling the Word
Σπιλάς vividly depicts the danger of hidden spiritual threats. Originally describing treacherous underwater rocks that could destroy ships, Jude employs this nautical imagery to warn about false teachers who threaten the church's spiritual navigation. The early church recognized this metaphor's power in identifying subtle but destructive influences within the community. Today, it continues to warn believers about hidden spiritual dangers while emphasizing the need for spiritual discernment and faithful navigation of truth.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
Morphological Features:
Examples:
S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes its maritime origin and metaphorical application. Thayer's notes its use in describing dangerous spiritual influences. LSJ provides extensive nautical usage examples. Vine's highlights its singular New Testament appearance. Moulton and Milligan document its technical usage in maritime contexts.
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T - Tracing the Scriptures
First Appearance:
Jude 1:12: "These are spots in your love feasts, while they feast with you without fear, serving only themselves. They are clouds without water, carried about by the winds; late autumn trees without fruit, twice dead, pulled up by the roots; raging waves of the sea, foaming up their own shame; wandering stars for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever."
Additional References:
This word appears only once in the New Testament.
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
Σπιλάς powerfully illustrates the danger of false teaching and spiritual deception. Just as hidden reefs threatened ancient ships, false teachers threaten the church's spiritual journey. This reminds us to stay anchored in the truth of the Gospel and maintain vigilant spiritual discernment.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4694: A feminine noun describing hidden rocks or reefs, used metaphorically in Jude to warn of dangerous false teachers who threaten the church's spiritual well-being. The nautical imagery emphasizes the subtle but destructive nature of spiritual deception.
Part of speech: Feminine Noun
Tags: danger, false teaching, spiritual warfare, Jude, nautical terms, deception, warning, discernment, church, protection