G1036 — Buthizō (To plunge into the deep, to sink)

G1036 · Greek · New Testament

βυθίζω

Buthizō

Verb

To plunge into the deep, to sink

Definition

Buthizō (βυθίζω) means to sink or submerge — to plunge something or someone into the depths. In Luke 5:7, it describes the boats filling with fish so heavily that they began to sink. In 1 Timothy 6:9, it is used metaphorically for desires that plunge people into destruction.

Theological Significance

The terrifying metaphor of 1 Timothy 6:9 — the love of money plunging people into "ruin and destruction" — uses buthizō to paint a vivid image of spiritual drowning. What looks like gain pulls people under. Jesus walking on water and reaching out to sinking Peter (Matthew 14:30) is the anti-type: in the deep waters of life's trials, there is a hand extended to lift, not condemn.

Key Scripture Passages

Luke 5:7

They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.

1 Timothy 6:9

But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.

Matthew 14:30

But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me."

Revelation 18:21

Then a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone and threw it into the sea, saying, "So will Babylon the great city be thrown down with violence."

Psalm 69:2

I sink in deep mire, where there is no foothold; I have come into deep waters, and the flood sweeps over me.

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