βίαιος
bíaios
G972 attributive adjective
SILEX Entry
Definition
Characterized by force, compulsion, or the exercise of violence; describing actions, persons, or circumstances involving physical strength, the use of force, or coercion. In specific contexts, may refer to someone or something mighty, powerful, or operating with overwhelming force.
Semantic Range
violent, forceful, mighty, characterized by violence or compulsion, involving force or coercion
Root / Etymology
From the root βία (force, violence) with the adjectival suffix -ιος, forming an adjective indicating 'full of' or 'characterized by' (i.e., marked by the quality of βία).
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, βίαιος appears with reference to that which is forceful, violent, or compelled by necessity (Homer, Herodotus, Plato). The term generally has a negative connotation, emphasizing actions or events marked by coercion or lack of consent. By the Hellenistic and Koine periods, including the Septuagint and New Testament usage, the sense retains its connection to force but may also denote overwhelming natural or human power (as in Acts 27:41, describing a ship broken by violent [βίαιοι] waves). Unlike the related term ἰσχυρός (strong, powerful), βίαιος stresses the use of force over mere ability or might, and associates with violence or roughness. English translations often render βίαιος as 'violent,' 'mighty,' or 'forcible.' However, 'mighty' may obscure the core sense of forcefulness or violence present in both positive and negative contexts. The noun βία ('violence, force') underlies its semantics, and no significant religious or cultural nuance distinguishes the term in Jewish or early Christian literature from its broader Greek usage.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from βία; violent:--mighty.
Root Family
βίαιος (bíaios) — force, violence, compulsion
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G972-01 |
βιαίας | biaias | ADJ.A GEN F SG |
violent | of violent force | violent | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G972-01 |
Acts 2:2 | βιαίας | biaias | ADJ.A GEN F SG |
violent | of violent force | violent |