Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The Hebrew equivalent often associated with the concept of waves is תַּלְגָּה (talgah) or גַּל (gal), which also convey the idea of a wave or billow. These terms are used in the Old Testament to describe the sea's movements and are found in passages such as Psalm 42:7: "Deep calls to deep in the roar of Your waterfalls; all Your breakers and waves have swept over me."

Usage: The term κῦμα is used in the New Testament to describe literal waves of the sea, often in the context of storms or turbulent waters. It is employed metaphorically to depict instability or turmoil.

Context: The Greek word κῦμα appears in several New Testament passages, primarily in the context of describing the natural phenomenon of waves. It is used to convey both the physical reality of the sea's power and the metaphorical sense of life's uncertainties and challenges.

In Matthew 8:24, κῦμα is used to describe the waves that covered the boat during a storm while Jesus and His disciples were on the Sea of Galilee: "Suddenly a violent storm came up on the sea, so that the boat was engulfed by the waves; but Jesus was sleeping." Here, κῦμα illustrates the peril faced by the disciples and sets the stage for Jesus' demonstration of His authority over nature.

Similarly, in Acts 27:41, the term is used to describe the shipwreck experienced by Paul: "But the vessel struck a sandbar and ran aground. The bow stuck fast and would not move, and the stern was being broken up by the pounding of the waves." This passage highlights the destructive power of the sea and the vulnerability of human endeavors against it.

Metaphorically, κῦμα is used in James 1:6 to describe the doubter: "But he must ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." Here, the imagery of a wave conveys instability and lack of direction, emphasizing the need for steadfast faith.

The use of κῦμα in the New Testament underscores the dual nature of waves as both a literal and symbolic representation of challenges, emphasizing the need for faith and reliance on divine power in the face of life's storms.