λίμνη (limnē)
limnē
lake
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 10 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun limnē simply means a lake or large body of standing water. In the Gospels, it refers to familiar locations like the Sea of Galilee, which Jesus frequently traversed and taught near (Luke 5:1-2). This usage grounds the narrative in the everyday geography of first-century Palestine.
However, the word takes on a darker tone in Revelation. John uses limnē to describe the "lake of fire" or "lake of burning sulfur," a place of final judgment for the beast, the false prophet, and death itself (Revelation 19:20; 20:10, 14-15). Here, the natural image is transformed into a symbol of divine wrath and eternal separation.
The etymology suggests a connection to the shore or nearness, perhaps distinguishing these inland waters from the open sea (thalassa). While thalassa often implies vastness and danger, limnē focuses on the contained nature of the water. This distinction helps readers visualize the specific setting, whether it is a peaceful fishing lake or a terrifying place of final destiny.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
In the Gospels, this word describes the familiar waters of Galilee where Jesus walked with ordinary people. It grounds His ministry in real places, showing that God meets us in our daily routines and local surroundings. The lake was not just a backdrop but a stage for teaching, healing, and quiet moments with friends.
Yet the same word appears in Revelation to describe a place of final judgment. This contrast reminds us that while God offers grace in everyday life, He also upholds justice. The imagery moves from peaceful waters to a warning about eternal consequences, urging us to take our spiritual standing seriously.
This duality invites reflection on how we live out our faith. Whether in moments of calm or crisis, the word points to the reality that our choices have lasting weight. It calls us to trust in His mercy while remaining faithful to His truth.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 10 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- lake8×
- lake.2×
- lake,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- λίμνην6×
- λίμνῃ1×
- λίμνης.1×
- λίμνην.1×
- λίμνην,1×
- λίμνη1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 5:1
Now while the multitude pressed on him and heard the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret.
This verse establishes the setting for Jesus' public teaching, showing how He used ordinary locations like the lake to share divine wisdom with crowds.
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Luke 8:23
But as they sailed, he fell asleep. A wind storm came down on the lake, and they were taking on dangerous amounts of water.
Here the word highlights the sudden danger of a storm on the water, underscoring Jesus' authority over nature even when His disciples were afraid.
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Revelation of John 20:14
Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.
This occurrence shifts the meaning to a place of final judgment, where death itself is destroyed, emphasizing the ultimate victory over evil.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does limnē mean in the Bible?
How is limnē different from thalassa?
Why does the meaning change in Revelation?
Every Occurrence (10 verses across 2 books)
Luke 5 verses
Now while the multitude pressed on him and heard the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret.
Luke 5:2He saw two boats standing by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets.
Luke 8:22Now on one of those days, he entered into a boat, himself and his disciples, and he said to them, “Let’s go over to the…
Luke 8:23But as they sailed, he fell asleep. A wind storm came down on the lake, and they were taking on dangerous amounts of…
Luke 8:33The demons came out of the man and entered into the pigs, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and…