STRONGS NT 1643: ἐλάωἐλάω, see ἐλαύνω.

Strong’s Greek 1643 pictures forceful motion—driving, pushing, or propelling something forward. The contexts vary from literal nautical activity to the invisible propulsion of spiritual powers, consistently emphasizing irresistible movement.

Occurrences in the New Testament

Luke 8:29; Mark 6:48; John 6:19; James 3:4; 2 Peter 2:17.

Semantic Range and Imagery

1. Nautical propulsion by oars or wind.
2. Compulsion exerted by supernatural agents.
3. Figurative pressure directing moral or spiritual destiny.

Jesus and the Storms: Mark 6:48; John 6:19

Mark 6:48: “He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them.”

John 6:19: “When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the sea.”

The verb captures the disciples’ strenuous effort against contrary forces. Christ’s sovereign appearance overrules those forces, reminding believers that divine presence supersedes hostile circumstances, whether natural or spiritual.

Spiritual Bondage and Deliverance: Luke 8:29

Luke 8:29: “Many times it had seized him… he would break the chains and be driven by the demon into solitary places.”

Here the propulsion is demonic. The man is literally pushed to isolation, underscoring the destructive trajectory of unclean spirits. The subsequent liberation by Jesus highlights His authority to break compulsions that enslave.

Human Tongue and Moral Guidance: James 3:4

James 3:4: “Ships… driven by strong winds, are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot is inclined.”

The wind’s power illustrates external pressures on human life. The rudder represents the tongue, capable of redirecting that momentum. Christian maturity demands disciplined speech that harnesses life’s driving forces toward righteousness.

False Teachers Driven to Destruction: 2 Peter 2:17

2 Peter 2:17: “These men are springs without water and mists driven by a storm.”

False teachers are compared to clouds hurled by violent tempests—directionless and doomed. The verb exposes their lack of self-governance and the inevitability of judgment: “Blackest darkness is reserved for them.”

Historical and Cultural Background

In Hellenistic maritime culture, 1643 naturally described rowing or sailing under a stiff breeze. New Testament writers adopt this familiar term to speak of both physical motion on Galilee and unseen spiritual dynamics. The dual use grounds doctrinal truths in everyday experience.

Theological and Pastoral Applications

• Divine authority trumps every force that drives or oppresses (Mark 6; Luke 8).
• Spiritual forces, whether holy or unclean, influence human direction; discernment is vital.
• Believers face external pressures (“strong winds”) but remain responsible for the rudder of speech and conduct (James 3).
• Teachers lacking the Spirit are propelled toward darkness; doctrinal fidelity keeps ministry on course (2 Peter 2).
• Pastoral care addresses both outward circumstances and inner compulsions, trusting Christ to redirect every life buffeted by hostile winds.

Conclusion

Strong’s 1643 threads through narratives of storms, bondage, and moral exhortation, portraying forces that push people either toward or away from God. Scripture calls believers to submit their course to Jesus Christ, who alone commands the winds and calms the soul.