σαίνω (sainō)
sainō
to shake
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb sainō carries a vividly physical image: to wag the tail. While ancient sources note its literal use for dogs fawning or begging for attention, the New Testament employs it metaphorically for people who flatter or beguile others to gain favor. It describes a behavior driven by desire rather than sincerity, where one agitates or disturbs the peace of a relationship through insincere praise.
This word appears only once in the canonical text, in 1 Thessalonians 3:3. Here, Paul urges believers not to be shaken or disturbed by troubles, using the passive form of sainō to describe being agitated by external pressures. The context suggests that such agitation often comes from those who might seek to destabilize faith through deceptive comfort or false reassurance, making the word a warning against spiritual instability caused by flattery.
Its rarity in Scripture highlights its specific force. Unlike general terms for pleasing others, sainō implies a loss of composure. The connection to tail-wagging underscores the instinctual, almost animalistic nature of this kind of social maneuvering. Translators often render it as "shaken" or "troubled" in this single instance, capturing the internal unrest that results from being swayed by such superficial influences.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word translated as "moved" in 1 Thessalonians 3:3 carries a vivid image of being shaken or agitated, much like an animal wagging its tail to seek favor. In this single occurrence, Paul uses the passive form to describe believers who are unsettled by external troubles. He reminds us that such distress is not a sign of weak faith, but rather a shared experience for all who follow Christ.
This passage invites you to find peace in the reality that suffering is part of our appointed path. When life feels unstable or when others try to sway your emotions with empty comfort, remember that your calling remains steady. You are not alone in this struggle; Paul and his companions faced the same pressures. Let this truth anchor your heart, knowing that your purpose is secure regardless of the storms around you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to be moved1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σαίνεσθαι1×
Key Verses
-
I Thessalonians 3:3
that no one would be moved by these afflictions. For you know that we are appointed to this task.
Paul uses this rare verb to describe the internal agitation believers might feel from afflictions, emphasizing that such disturbance is a common part of their shared calling.