χειμάζω (cheimazō)
cheimazō
be storm-tossed
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb cheimazō describes being driven by a violent storm, specifically evoking the harshness of winter gales. Its root connects to cheima, meaning winter cold or frost, so the word carries an image of not just wind and rain, but biting, freezing tempests that batter a vessel. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Acts 27:18, where Paul and his companions are caught in a severe storm at sea.
Here, the text says they were "storm-tossed" or "beaten by the storm." This is not merely rough weather; it is a life-threatening situation where the ship is being battered relentlessly. The word emphasizes the physical violence of the elements against the people on board, highlighting their helplessness and danger.
Because it occurs in such a specific narrative context, cheimazō helps readers feel the intensity of the crisis Paul faced. It reminds us that the apostle’s faith was tested not in calm waters, but in the midst of a chaotic, freezing storm that threatened to destroy everything around him.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word cheimazō paints a vivid picture of being battered by a violent winter storm. It describes more than just rough seas; it evokes the biting cold and relentless force of gales that threaten to destroy a vessel. In Acts 27, this term captures the sheer intensity of the crisis Paul faced, where he and his companions were tossed about by nature’s fury.
When life feels like such a tempest, it is easy to feel helpless. Yet, even in those moments of chaos, faith remains steady. This word reminds us that storms are not signs of abandonment but opportunities to trust in God’s presence amidst the turbulence. His peace does not depend on calm waters.
May you find comfort knowing that no storm is beyond His care. Even when waves crash around you, remember that He walks beside you through every trial. May His grace sustain you until the winds subside and hope returns.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- being storm-tossed1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- χειμαζομένων1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 27:18
As we labored exceedingly with the storm, the next day they began to throw things overboard.
This verse uses cheimazō to describe the physical violence of the storm as Paul’s ship is battered, highlighting the intensity of the crisis.