κῦμα
kuma
a wave
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word κῦμα (kuma) is defined as a wave. This single-word term appears five times in the Bible, providing a limited yet clear picture of its meaning and usage. The word κῦμα most likely refers to a body of water in motion, such as the ocean or a lake, characterized by undulating or flowing movements. Given its literal meaning, κῦμα may be used to describe various aspects of water, from its calm and peaceful state to its turbulent and destructive power. The significance of κῦμα in the Bible is likely due to its universal relevance to human experience. Its mention in just a few passages highlights the importance of water as a natural element that can evoke emotions, pose threats, or offer tranquility.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
5 total occurrences across the text
Behold, a violent storm came up on the sea, so much that the boat was covered with the waves, but he was asleep.
Matthew 14:24But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, distressed by the waves, for the wind was contrary.
Mark 4:37A big wind storm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so much that the boat was already filled.
Acts 27:41But coming to a place where two seas met, they ran the vessel aground. The bow struck and remained immovable, but the stern began to break up by the violence of the waves.
Jude 1:13wild waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the blackness of darkness has been reserved forever.