Bible Commentaries

That we should sail (του αποπλειν ημας — tou apoplein hēmas). This genitive articular infinitive with εκριτη — ekrithē like the lxx construction translating the Hebrew infinitive construct is awkward in Greek. Several similar examples in Luke 17:1; Acts 10:25; Acts 20:3 (Robertson, Grammar, p. 1068). Luke alone uses this old verb in N.T. He uses nine compounds of πλεω — pleō to sail. Note the reappearance of “we” in the narrative. It is possible, of course, that Luke was not with Paul during the series of trials at Caesarea, or at least, not all the time. But it is natural for Luke to use “we” again because he and Aristarchus are travelling with Paul. In Caesarea Paul was the centre of the action all the time whether Luke was present or not. The great detail and minute accuracy of Luke‘s account of this voyage and shipwreck throw more light upon ancient seafaring than everything else put together. Smith‘s Voyage and Shipwreck of St. Paul is still a classic on the subject. Though so accurate in his use of sea terms, yet Luke writes like a landsman, not like a sailor. Besides, the character of Paul is here revealed in a remarkable fashion.

They delivered (παρεδιδουν — paredidoun). Imperfect active ωμεγα — ōmega form rather than the old μι — ̇mi form παρεδιδοσαν — paredidosan as in Acts 4:33, from παραδιδωμι — paradidōmi Perhaps the imperfect notes the continuance of the handing over.

Certain other prisoners (τινας ετερους δεσμωτας — tinas heterous desmōtas). Bound (δεσμωτας — desmōtas) like Paul, but not necessarily appellants to Caesar, perhaps some of them condemned criminals to amuse the Roman populace in the gladiatorial shows, most likely pagans though ετερους — heterous does not have to mean different kind of prisoners from Paul.

Of the Augustan band (σπειρης Σεβαστης — speirēs Sebastēs). Note Ionic genitive σπειρης — speirēs not σπειρας — speiras See note on Matthew 27:27 and note on Acts 10:1. Χοορτις Αυγυσταε — Cohortis Augustae We do not really know why this cohort is called “Augustan.” It may be that it is part of the imperial commissariat (frumentarii) since Julius assumes chief authority in the grain ship (Acts 27:11). These legionary centurions when in Rome were called peregrini (foreigners) because their work was chiefly in the provinces. This man Julius may have been one of them.

In a ship of Adramyttium (πλοιωι αδραμυντηνωι — ploiōi Hadramuntēnōi). A boat belonging to Adramyttium, a city in Mysia in the province of Asia. Probably a small coasting vessel on its way home for the winter stopping at various places (τοπους — topous). Julius would take his chances to catch another ship for Rome. The usual way to go to Rome was to go to Alexandria and so to Rome, but no large ship for Alexandria was at hand.

We put to sea (ανηχτημεν — anēchthēmen). First aorist passive of αναγω — anagō usual word in Luke.

Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us (οντος συν ημιν Αρισταρχου Μακεδονος Τεσσαλονικεως — ontos sun hēmin Aristarchou Makedonos Thessalonikeōs). Genitive absolute. Ramsay suggests that Luke and Aristarchus accompanied Paul as his slaves since they would not be allowed to go as his friends. But Luke was Paul‘s physician and may have gained permission on that score.

The next day (τηι ετεραι — tēi heterāi). Locative case with ημεραι — hēmerāi understood.

We touched (κατηχτημεν — katēchthēmen). First aorist passive of καταγω — katagō the usual term for “coming down” from the seas as αναγω — anagō above (and Acts 27:4) is for “going up” to sea. So it looks to sailors. Sidon was 67 miles from Caesarea, the rival of Tyre, with a splendid harbour. The ship stopped here for trade.

Treated Paul kindly (πιλαντρωπως τωι Παυλωι χρησαμενος — philanthrōpōs tōi Paulōi chrēsamenos). “Using (χρησαμενος — chrēsamenos first aorist middle participle of χραομαι — chraomai to use) Paul (instrumental case used with this verb) kindly” (πιλαντρωπως — philanthrōpōs “philanthropically,” adverb from πιλαντρωπος — phil̇anthrōpos love of mankind). He was kindly to Paul throughout the voyage (Acts 27:43; Acts 28:16), taking a personal interest in his welfare.

Refresh himself (επιμελειας τυχειν — epimeleias tuchein). Second aorist active infinitive of τυγχανω — tugchanō (to obtain) with the genitive επιμελειας — epimeleias old word from επιμελης — epimelēs careful, only here in the N.T. Whether it was mere hospitality we do not know. It may have been medical attention required because of Paul‘s long confinement. This is Paul‘s first visit to Sidon, but Christians were already in Phoenicia (Acts 11:19) and so Paul had “friends” here.

We sailed under the lee of Cyprus (υπεπλευσαμεν την Κυπρον — hupepleusamen tēn Kupron). First aorist active indicative of υποπλεω — hupopleō to sail under. Cyprus was thus on the left between the ship and the wind from the northwest, under the protection of Cyprus.

Because the winds were contrary (δια το τους ανεμους ειναι εναντιους — dia to tous anemous einai enantious). The articular infinitive after δια — dia and the accusative of general reference (ανεμους — anemous) with predicate accusative (εναντιους — enantious facing them, in their very teeth if they went that way). The Etesian winds were blowing from the northwest so that they could not cut straight across from Sidon to Patara with Cyprus on the right. They must run behind Cyprus and hug the shore of Cilicia and Pamphylia.

When we had sailed across (διαπλευσαντες — diapleusantes). First aorist active participle of διαπλεω — diapleō (another compound of πλεω — pleō).

The sea which is off Cilicia and Pamphylia (το πελαγος το κατα την Κιλικιαν και Παμπυλιαν — to pelagos to kata tēn Kilikian kai Pamphulian). Πελαγος — Pelagos is properly the high sea as here. In Matthew 18:6 (which see) Jesus uses it of “the depth of the sea.” Only these examples in the N.T. The current runs westward along the coast of Cilicia and Pamphylia and the land would protect from the wind.

We came to Myra of Lycia (κατηλταμεν εις Μυρρα της Λυκιας — katēlthamen eis Murra tēs Lukias). Literally, “We came down.” This town was two and a half miles from the coast of Lycia. The port Andriace had a fine harbour and did a large grain business. No disciples are mentioned here nor at Lasea, Melita, Syracuse, Rhegium.

Sailing for Italy (πλεον εις την Ιταλιαν — pleon eis tēn Italian). This was the opportunity for which Lysias had been looking. So he put (ενεβιβασεν — enebibasen first aorist active of εμβιβαζω — embibazō to cause to enter. Cf. επιβαντες — epibantes in Acts 27:2) prisoners and soldiers on board. This was a ship of Alexandria bound for Rome, a grain ship (38) out of its course because of the wind. Such grain ships usually carried passengers.

When we had sailed slowly (βραδυπλοουντες — braduploountes). Present active participle of βραδυπλοεω — braduploeō (βραδυς — bradus slow, πλους — plous voyage). Literally, “sailing slowly,” not “having or had sailed slowly.” Only here and in Artemidorus (sec. cent. a.d.). It may mean “tacking” before the wind. Polybius uses ταχυπλοεω — tachuploeō to sail swiftly.

Many days (εν ικαναις ημεραις — en hikanais hēmerais). See note on Luke 7:6 for hikanos Literally, “in considerable days.”

With difficulty (ικανος — molis). Used in old Greek, like μολος — mogis (Luke 9:39) from μολος — molos toil (See note on Acts 14:18).

Over against Cnidus (κατα την Κνιδον — kata tēn Knidon). “Down along Cnidus.” A hundred and thirty miles from Myra, the southwest point of Asia Minor and the western coast. Here the protection of the land from the northwest wind ceased.

The wind not further suffering us (μη προσεωντος ημας του ανεμου — mē proseōntos hēmās tou anemou). Genitive absolute with present active participle of προσεαω — proseaō one of the few words still “not found elsewhere” (Thayer). Regular negative μη — mē with participles. They could not go on west as they had been doing since leaving Myra.

We sailed under the lee of Crete (υπεπλευσαμεν την Κρητην — hupepleusamen tēn Krētēn). See note on Acts 27:4. Instead of going to the right of Crete as the straight course would have been they sailed southwest with Crete to their right and got some protection against the wind there.

Over against Salmone (κατα Σαλμωνην — kata Salmōnēn). Off Cape Salmone, a promontory on the east of the island.

Coasting along (παραλεγομενοι — paralegomenoi). Present middle participle of παραλεγω — paralegō to lay beside, not from λεγω — legō to collect or λεγω — legō to say. Diodorus Siculus uses παραλεγομαι — paralegomai in precisely this sense of coasting along, like Latin legere oram. In N.T. only here and Acts 27:13.

Fair Havens (Καλους Λιμενας — Kalous Limenas). This harbour is named Kalus Limeonas, a small bay two miles east of Cape Matala. It opens to the East and Southeast, but is not fit to winter in. This harbour would protect them for a time from the winds.

The city of Lasea (πολις Λασεα — polis Lasea). Neither Lasea nor Fair Havens is mentioned by any ancient writer, two of the hundred cities of Crete.

Where much time was spent (ικανου χρονου διαγενομενου — Hikanou chronou diagenomenou). Genitive absolute again with second aorist middle participle of διαγινομαι — diaginomai to come in between (δια — dia). “Considerable time intervening,” since they became weatherbound in this harbour, though some take it since they left Caesarea.

And the voyage was now dangerous (και οντος ηδη επισπαλους — kai ontos ēdē episphalous). Genitive absolute, “and the voyage being already (ηδη — ēdē =Latin jam) dangerous” (old word from επι — epi and σπαλλω — sphallō to trip, to fall, and so prone to fall, here only in N.T.).

Because the Fast was now already gone by (δια το και την νηστειαν ηδη παρεληλυτεναι — dia to kai tēn nēsteian ēdē parelēluthenai). Accusative (after δια — dia) of the articular infinitive perfect active of παρερχομαι — parerchomai to pass by, with the accusative of general reference (νηστειαν — nēsteian the great day of atonement of the Jews, Leviticus 16:29.) occurring about the end of September. The ancients considered navigation on the Mediterranean unsafe from early October till the middle of March. In a.d. 59 the Fast occurred on Oct. 5. There is nothing strange in Luke using this Jewish note of time as in Acts 20:6 though a Gentile Christian. Paul did it also (1 Corinthians 16:8). It is no proof that Luke was a Jewish proselyte. We do not know precisely when the party left Caesarea (possibly in August), but in ample time to arrive in Rome before October if conditions had been more favourable. But the contrary winds had made the voyage very slow and difficult all the way (Acts 27:7) besides the long delay here in this harbour of Fair Havens.

Paul admonished them (παρηινηι ο Παυλος — parēinēi ho Paulos). Imperfect active of παραινεω — paraineō old word to exhort from παρα — para and αινεω — aineō to praise (Acts 3:8), only here and Acts 27:22 in N.T. It is remarkable that a prisoner like Paul should venture to give advice at all and to keep on doing it (imperfect tense inchoative, began to admonish and kept on at it). Paul had clearly won the respect of the centurion and officers and also felt it to be his duty to give this unasked for warning.

I perceive (τεωρω — theōrō). Old word from τεωρος — theōros a spectator. See note on Luke 10:18. Paul does not here claim prophecy, but he had plenty of experience with three shipwrecks already (2 Corinthians 11:25) to justify his apprehension.

Will be (μελλειν εσεσται — mellein esesthai). Infinitive in indirect assertion followed by future infinitive after μελλειν — mellein in spite of οτι — hoti which would naturally call for present indicative μελλει — mellei an anacoluthon due to the long sentence (Robertson, Grammar, p. 478).

With injury (μετα υβρεως — meta hubreōs). An old word from υπερ — huper (above, upper, like our “uppishness”) and so pride, insult, personal injury, the legal word for personal assault (Page). Josephus (Ant. III. 6, 4) uses it of the injury of the elements.

Loss (ζημιαν — zēmian). Old word, opposite of κερδος — kerdos gain or profit (Philemon 3:7.). Nowhere else in N.T.

Lading (πορτιου — phortiou). Diminutive of πορτος — phortos (from περω — pherō to bear) only in form. Common word, but in N.T. only here in literal sense, as metaphor in Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Luke 11:46; Galatians 6:5.

But also of our lives (αλλα και των πσυχων — alla kai tōn psuchōn). Common use of πσυχη — psuchē for life, originally “breath of life” (Acts 20:10), and also “soul” (Acts 14:2). Fortunately no lives were lost, though all else was. But this outcome was due to the special mercy of God for the sake of Paul (Acts 27:24), not to the wisdom of the officers in rejecting Paul‘s advice. Paul begins now to occupy the leading role in this marvellous voyage.

Gave more heed (μαλλον επειτετο — māllon epeitheto). Imperfect middle of πειτω — peithō to yield to (with the dative case). The “Frumentarian” centurion ranked above the captain and owner. As a military officer the centurion was responsible for the soldiers, the prisoners, and the cargo of wheat. It was a government ship. Though the season was not advanced, the centurion probably feared to risk criticism in Rome for timidity when the wheat was so much needed in Rome (Knowling).

To the master (τωι κυβερνητηι — tōi kubernētēi). Old word from κυβερναω — kubernaō to steer, and so steersman, pilot, sailing-master. Common in this sense in the papyri. In N.T. only here and Revelation 18:17.

And to the owner of the ship (και τωι ναυκληρωι — kai tōi nauklērōi). Old word compounded of ναυς — naus and κληρος — klēros and used for owner of the ship who acted as his own skipper or captain. The papyri examples (Moulton and Milligan‘s Vocabulary) all have the meaning “captain” rather than “owner.”

Because the haven was not commodious to winter in (ανευτετου του λιμενος υπαρχοντος προς παραχειμασιαν — aneuthetou tou limenos huparchontos pros paracheimasian). Genitive absolute again present tense of υπαρχω — huparchō “The harbour being unfit (ανευτετου — aneuthetou this compound not yet found elsewhere, simplex in Luke 9:62; Luke 14:35; Hebrews 6:7) for wintering” (παραχειμασια — paracheimasia only here in N.T., but in Polybius and Diodorus, in an inscription a.d. 48, from παραχειμαζω — paracheimazō).

The more part advised (οι πλειονες ετεντο βουλην — hoi pleiones ethento boulēn). Second aorist middle indicative of τιτημι — tithēmi ancient idiom with βουλην — boulēn to take counsel, give counsel. Lysias held a council of the officers of the ship on the issue raised by Paul.

If by any means they could reach Phoenix and winter there (ει πως δυναιντο καταντησαντες εις Ποινικα παραχειμασαι — ei pōs dunainto katantēsantes eis Phoinika paracheimasai). The optative δυναιντο — dunainto (present middle of δυναμαι — dunamai) here with ει — ei is a condition of the fourth class with the notion of purpose implied and indirect discourse (Robertson, Grammar, p. 1021). “We vote for going on the chance that we may be able” (Page). Phoenix is the town of palms (John 12:13), the modern Lutro, the only town in Crete on the southern coast with a harbour fit for wintering, though Wordsworth and Page argue for Phineka which suits Luke‘s description better. The verb παραχειμαζω — paracheimazō to winter, is from παρα — para and χειμων — cheimōn (see also Acts 28:11). Used in several Koiné{[28928]}š writers.

Looking northeast and southeast (βλεποντα κατα λιβα και κατα χωρον — bleponta kata liba kai kata chōron). There are two ways of interpreting this language. Λιπς — Lips means the southwest wind and χωρος — chōros the northwest wind. But what is the effect of κατα — kata with these words? Does it mean “facing” the wind? If so, we must read “looking southwest and northwest.” But κατα — kata can mean down the line of the wind (the way the wind is blowing). If so, then it is proper to translate “looking northeast and southeast.” This translation suits Lutro, the other suits Phoenike. Ramsay takes it to be Lutro, and suggests that sailors describe the harbour by the way it looks as they go into it (the subjectivity of the sailors) and that Luke so speaks and means Lutro which faces northeast and southeast. On the whole Lutro has the best of the argument.

When the south wind blew softly (υποπνευσαντος νοτου — hupopneusantos notou). Genitive absolute with aorist active participle of υποπνεω — hupopneō old verb to blow under, then to blow gently, here only in N.T. “A south wind having blown gently,” in marked contrast to the violent northwest wind that they had faced so long. They were so sure of the wisdom of their decision that they did not even draw up the small boat attached by a rope to the vessel‘s stern (Acts 27:16). It was only some forty miles to Lutro.

Their purpose (της προτεσεως — tēs protheseōs set before them, from προτιτημι — protithēmi), genitive after κρατεω — krateō (κεκρατηκεναι — kekratēkenai perfect active infinitive in indirect discourse).

They weighed anchor (αραντες — ārantes). First aorist active participle of αιρω — airō old verb used in technical sense with τας αγκυρας — tas agkuras (anchors) understood as in Thucydides I. 52; II. 23, “having lifted the anchors.” Page takes it simply as “moving.”

Sailed along Crete (παρελεγοντο την Κρητην — parelegonto tēn Krētēn). Imperfect middle. See Acts 27:8, “were coasting along Crete.”

Close in shore (ασσον — āsson). Comparative adverb of αγκι — agki near, and so “nearer” to shore. Only here in N.T.

After no long time (μετ ου πολυ — met' ou polu). Litotes again.

Beat down from it (εβαλεν κατ αυτης — ebalen kat' autēs). Second aorist active indicative of βαλλω — ballō to throw. Here “dashed” (intransitive). Αυτης — Autēs is in the ablative, not genitive case, beat “down from it” (Crete), not “against it or on it.” (Robertson, Grammar, p. 606). Αυτης — Autēs cannot refer to πλοιον — ploion (boat) which is neuter. So the ablative case with κατα — kata as in Mark 5:13, Homer also. The Cretan mountains are over 7,000 feet high.

A tempestuous wind which is called Euraquilo (ανεμος τυπωνικος ο καλουμενος Ευρακυλων — anemos tuphōnikos ho kaloumenos Eurakulōn). ΤυπωνΤυπως — Tuphōn̂Tuphōs was used for the typhoon, a violent whirlwind (τυρβο — turbo) or squall. This word gives the character of the wind. The Ευρακυλων — Eurakulōn (reading of Aleph A B against the Textus Receptus Ευροκλυδων — Eurokludōn) has not been found elsewhere. Blass calls it a hybrid word compounded of the Greek ευρος — euros (east wind) and the Latin αθυιλο — aquilo (northeast). It is made like ευρονοτος — euronotos (southeast). The Vulgate has euroaquilo. It is thus the east north east wind. Page considers Euroclydon to be a corruption of Euraquilo. Here the name gives the direction of the wind.

When the ship was caught (συναρπαστεντος του πλοιου — sunarpasthentos tou ploiou). Genitive absolute again with first aorist passive of συναρπαζω — sunarpazō old word, in N.T. only Luke 8:29; Acts 6:12; Acts 19:29, and here. Graphic picture as if the ship was seized by a great monster.

Face the wind (αντοπταλμειν τωι ανεμωι — antophthalmein tōi anemōi). Dative case with the vivid infinitive of αντοπταλμεω — antophthalmeō from αντοπταλμος — antophthalmos looking in the eye, or eye to eye (αντι — anti facing and οπταλμος — opthalmos eye). Eyes were painted on the prows of vessels. The ship could not face the wind enough to get to Phoenix. Modern sailors talk of sailing into the eye of the wind. We were not able to look the wind in the eye. Koiné{[28928]}š verb used by Polybius. Some MSS. have it in Acts 6:11, but only here in N.T. In Wisdom of Sol. 12:14 it is used of a prince who cannot look God in the face. Clement of Rome 34 uses it of an idle workman not able to look his employer in the face (Milligan and Moulton‘s Vocabulary).

We gave way (επιδοντες — epidontes). Second aorist active participle of επιδιδωμι — epididōmi giving way to the wind.

Were driven (επερομετα — epherometha). Imperfect passive of περω — pherō “we were being borne along.” We “scudded before the gale” (Page). “The suddenness of the hurricane gave no time to furl the great mainsail” (Furneaux).

Running under the lee of (υποδραμοντες — hupodramontes). Second aorist active participle of υποτρεχω — hupotrechō Same use of υπο — hupo as in υπεπλευσαμεν — hupepleusamen (Acts 27:4, Acts 27:8) for “under the lee”, under the protection of. Νησιον — Nēsion is diminutive of νησος — nēsos a small island. The MSS. vary between Cauda (B) and Clauda (Aleph).

To secure the boat (περικρατεις γενεσται της σκαπης — perikrateis genesthai tēs skaphēs). “To become masters (περικρατεις — perikrateis from περι — peri and κρατος — kratos power over, found in Susannah and ecclesiastical writers, and here only in N.T.) of the boat (“dug out,” like Indian boats, literally, from σκαπτω — skaptō to dig, old word, here only in N.T. and Acts 27:30, Acts 27:32). The smooth water behind the little island enabled them to do this.

When they had hoisted it up (ην αραντες — hēn ārantes). “Which (the little boat) having hoisted up (αραντες — arantes Acts 27:13).” Even so it was “with difficulty” (μολις — molis). Perhaps the little boat was waterlogged.

Used helps (βοητειαις εχρωντο — boētheiais echrōnto). Imperfect middle of χραομαι — chraomai with instrumental case. The “helps” were ropes or chains, no doubt.

Under-girding the ship (υποζωννυντες το πλοιον — hupozōnnuntes to ploion). Present active participle of υποζωννυμι — hupozōnnumi Old verb, here only in N.T. Probably cables (υποζωματα — hupozōmata) or ropes were used under the hull of the ship laterally or even longitudinally, tightly secured on deck. This “frapping” was more necessary for ancient vessels because of the heavy mast. The little island made it possible to do this also.

Lest we be cast upon the Syrtis (μη εις την Συρτιν εκπεσωσιν — mē eis tēn Surtin ekpesōsin). Final clause after verb of fearing (ποβουμενοι — phoboumenoi) with μη — mē and the second aorist active subjunctive of εκπιπτω — ekpiptō old verb to fall out or off, to be cast away. So here and Acts 27:26, Acts 27:29, a classical use of the verb for a ship driven out of its course on to shoals or rocks (Page who cites Xenophon, Anab. VII. 5, 12). The Syrtis was the name for two quicksands between Carthage and Cyrenaica, this clearly being the Syrtis Major most dangerous because of the sandbanks (συρτις — surtis from συρω — surō). The wind would drive the ship right into this peril if something were not done.

They lowered the gear (χαλασαντες το σκευος — chalasantes to skeuos). First aorist active participle of χαλαω — chalaō (cf. Luke 5:4 for lowering the nets). Σκευος — Skeuos means vessel or gear. They slackened or reduced sail, especially the mainsail, but leaving enough to keep the ship‘s head as close to the wind as was practicable.

So were driven (ουτως επεροντο — houtōs epheronto). Imperfect passive indicative again as in Acts 27:15 with the addition of ουτως — houtōs (thus). The ship was now fixed as near to the wind (E N E) as possible (seven points). That would enable the ship to go actually W by N and so avoid the quicksands. J. Smith has shown that, a day being lost around Cauda, the ship going 36 miles in 24 hours in 13 days would make 468 miles. The Island of Malta (Melita) is precisely in that direction (W by N) from Cauda and is 480 miles. Page sees a difficulty about this explanation of the steady drift of the ship in the word διαπερομενον — diapheromenon in Acts 27:27, but that was at the end of the drifting and the varied winds could have come then and not before. The whole narrative as explained carefully in Smith‘s Voyage and Shipwreck of St. Paul is a masterpiece of precise and accurate scholarship. A resume of his results appears in my Luke the Historian in the Light of Research.

As we laboured exceedingly with the storm (σποδρως χειμαζομενων ημων — sphodrōs cheimazomenōn hēmōn). Genitive absolute with present passive participle of χειμαζω — cheimazō old verb to afflict with a tempest (χειμα — cheima stormy weather), to toss upon the waves, here alone in N.T.

They began to throw overboard (εκβαλην εποιουντο — ekbalēn epoiounto). Literally, “They began to make (inchoative imperfect middle of ποιεω — poieō) a casting out” (εκβολην — ekbolēn from εκβαλλω — ekballō to cast out, old word, only here in N.T.). Cf. Latin jacturam facere. This to lighten the ship by throwing overboard the cargo. The grain in the ship would shift and make it list and so added to the danger.

They cast out (εριπσαν — eripsan). Third person plural aorist active of ριπτω — riptō not εριπσαμεν — eripsamen as Textus Receptus.

With their own hands (αυτοχειρες — autocheires). Old word (αυτοσ χειρ — autosτην σκευην — cheir) but here alone in N.T. Vivid and graphic touch by Luke who, of course, watched every movement day by day.

The tackling (tēn skeuēn). The furniture of the ship that could be spared. It was becoming desperate.

When neither sun nor stars shone upon us (μητε ηλιου μητε αστρων επιπαινοντων — mēte hēliou mēte astrōn epiphainontōn). Genitive absolute again.

For many days (επι πλειονας ημερας — epi pleionas hēmeras). For more days than a few.

No small tempest (χειμονος ουκ ολιγου — cheimonos ouk oligou). Litotes again.

All hope that we should be saved was now taken away (λοιπον περιηιρειτο ελπις πασα του σωζεσται ημας — loipon periēireito elpis pāsa tou sōzesthai hēmas). “For the rest (or future) there began to be taken from around us (περιηιρειτο — periēireito inchoative imperfect and see use of the verb in 2 Corinthians 3:16 of the veil) all hope of the being saved so far as we were concerned.” Despair was beginning to settle like a fog on all their hopes. Had Paul lost hope?

When they had been long without food (πολλης τε ασιτιας υπαρχουσης — pollēs te asitias huparchousēs). Genitive absolute, the old word ασιτια — asitia from ασιτος — asitos (Acts 27:33) α — a privative and σιτος — sitos food, here alone in N.T. Literally, “There being much abstinence from food.” They had plenty of grain on board, but no appetite to eat (sea-sickness) and no fires to cook it (Page). “Little heart being left for food” (Randall). Galen and other medical writers use ασιτια — asitia and ασιτος — asitos for want of appetite.

Stood forth (στατεις — statheis). As in Acts 1:15; Acts 2:14; Acts 17:22. Pictorial word (Page) that sets forth the vividness and solemnity of the scene (Knowling).

Ye should have hearkened unto me (εδει μεν πειταρχησαντας μοι — edei men peitharchēsantas moi). Literally, “It was necessary for you hearkening unto me not to set sail (μη αναγεσται — mē anagesthai).” It was not the “I told you so” of a small nature, “but a reference to the wisdom of his former counsel in order to induce acceptance of his present advice” (Furneaux). The first aorist active participle is in the accusative of general reference with the present infinitive αναγεσται — anagesthai

And have gotten this injury and loss (κερδησαι τε την υβριν ταυτην και την ζημιαν — kerdēsai te tēn hubrin tautēn kai tēn zēmian). This Ionic form κερδησαι — kerdēsai (from κερδαω — kerdaō) rather than κερδηναι — kerdēnai or κερδαναι — kerdēnai is common in late Greek (Robertson, Grammar, p. 349). The Revised Version thus carries over the negative μη — mē to this first aorist active infinitive κερδησαι — kerdēsai from κερδαω — kerdaō (cf. Matthew 16:26). But Page follows Thayer in urging that this is not exact, that Paul means that by taking his advice they ought to have escaped this injury and loss. “A person is said in Greek ‹to gain a loss‘ when, being in danger of incurring it, he by his conduct saves himself from doing so.” This is probably Paul‘s idea here.

And now (και τα νυν — kai ta nun). Accusative plural neuter article of general reference in contrast with μεν — men in Acts 27:21. Paul shows modesty (Bengel) in the mild contrast.

No loss of life (αποβολη πσυχης ουδεμια — apobolē psuchēs oudemia). Old word from αποβαλλω — apoballō to throw away, only twice in N.T. Romans 11:15 (rejection) and here. He had foretold such loss of life as likely (Acts 27:10), but he now gives his reason for his changed view.

For there stood by me (παρεστη γαρ μοι — parestē gar moi). Second aorist active (intransitive) indicative of παριστημι — paristēmi with the locative case (beside me). The very form used by Paul of his trial (2 Timothy 4:17) when “the Lord stood by me” (ο δε κυριος μοι παρεστη — ho de kurios moi parestē) when others deserted him. This angel of the God whom Paul serves (in distinction from the heathen gods) is the reason for Paul‘s present confidence.

Thou must stand before Caesar (Καισαρι σε δει παραστηναι — Kaisari se dei parastēnai). Note the same δει — dei (must) as in Acts 23:11 when Jesus appeared to Paul in Jerusalem and the same verb παραστηναι — parastēnai (second aorist active infinitive) used in Acts 27:23.

Hath granted thee (κεχαρισται σοι — kecharistai soi). Perfect middle indicative of χαριζομαι — charizomai and that from χαρις — charis a gift or grace. The lives of those that sailed with Paul God had spared as a gift (χαρις — charis) to Paul.

Wherefore be of good cheer (διο ευτυμειτε — dio euthumeite). God had spoken. That was enough. This old verb from ευτυμος — euthumos in the N.T. only here, Acts 27:25; James 5:13. See the adjective Acts 27:36.

For I believe God (πιστευω γαρ τωι τεωι — pisteuō gar tōi theōi). This is Paul‘s reason for his own good cheer and for his exhortation to confidence in spite of circumstances so untoward. Paul had doubtless prayed for his own life and for the lives of all. He was sure that he was to bear his witness in Rome.

We must be cast (δει ημας εκπεσειν — dei hēmās ekpesein). It is necessary for us to fall out (εκπεσειν — ekpesein second aorist active infinitive of εκπιπτω — ekpiptō). It was not revealed to Paul what island it would be.

As we were driven to and fro (διαπερομενων ημων — diapheromenōn hēmōn). Genitive absolute with present passive participle of διαπερω — diapherō old verb to bear different ways (διαδυο — diâduo two), this way and that. Continued to be tossed to and fro in the rough seas. It would seem so to those on board. It does not necessarily mean that the wind had changed. The fourteenth night is reckoned from the time they left Fair Havens.

In the sea of Adria (εν τωι αδριαι — en tōi Hadriāi). Not the Adriatic Sea as we now call the sea between Italy and the mainland of Illyricum, but all the lower Mediterranean between Italy and Greece. Luke‘s usage is like that of Strabo.

Surmised (υπενοουν — hupenooun). Imperfect active indicative of υπονοεω — huponoeō inchoative, began to suspect.

That they were drawing near to some country (προσαγειν τινα αυτοις χωραν — prosagein tina autois chōran). Infinitive with accusative of general reference in indirect assertion. Προσαγω — Prosagō is here used intransitively and Luke writes from the sailor‘s standpoint that a certain land was drawing near to them (αυτοις — autois dative). The sailors heard the sound of breakers and grew uneasy.

They sounded (βολισαντες — bolisantes). First aorist active participle of βολιζω — bolizō rare verb only here and in Eustathius who says it was familiar in ancient Greek. Apparently from βολις — bolis a missile or dart, and so to throw down the lead into the sea, to heave the lead, to take soundings. The inscriptions give βολιμος — bolimos for “leaden.”

Twenty fathoms (οργυιας εικοσι — orguias eikosi). This old word, from ορεγω — oregō to stretch, means the distance from one outstretched middle finger tip to the other likewise out-stretched.

After a little space (βραχυ διαστησαντες — brachu diastēsantes). Literally, “standing apart a little” (second aorist active participle of διιστημι — diistēmi), that is, the ship going a short distance further on. A ship today approaching St. Paul‘s Bay by the rocky point of Koura would pass first twenty, then fifteen fathoms (Furneaux).

Lest haply we should be cast ashore on rocky ground (μη που κατα τραχεις τοπους εκπεσωμεν — mē pou kata tracheis topous ekpesōmen). The usual construction after a verb of fearing (μη — mē and the aorist subjunctive εκπεσωμεν — ekpesōmen). Literally, “Lest somewhere (που — pou) we should fall out down against (κατα — kata) rocky places.” The change in the soundings made it a very real fear. Τραχεις — Tracheis (rough) is old adjective, but in the N.T. only here and Luke 3:5 (from Isaiah 40:4).

Four anchors (αγκυρας τεσσαρας — agkuras tessaras). Old word from αγκη — agkē In N.T. only in this chapter, with ριπτω — rhiptō here, with εκτεινω — ekteinō in Acts 27:30, with περιαιρεω — periaireō in Acts 27:40; and Hebrews 6:19 (figuratively of hope).

From the stern (εκ πρυμνης — ek prumnēs). Old word, but in N.T. only in Mark 4:38; here and 41 in contrast with πρωιρα — prōira (prow). The usual practice was and is to anchor by the bows. “With a view to running the ship ashore anchoring from the stern would, it is said, be best” (Page). Nelson is quoted as saying that he had been reading Acts 27 the morning of the Battle of Copenhagen (April, 1801) where he anchored his ships from the stern.

Wished for the day (ηυχοντο — ēuchonto). Imperfect middle, kept on praying for “day to come” (ημεραν γενεσται — hēmeran genesthai) before the anchors broke under the strain of the storm or began to drag. If the ship had been anchored from the prow, it would have swung round and snapped the anchors or the stern would have faced the beach.

The sailors (των ναυτων — tōn nautōn). Old word from ναυς — naus (ship), in N.T. only here, Acts 27:30; Revelation 18:17.

Were seeking (ζητουντων — zētountōn). Genitive absolute again with present active participle of ζητεω — zēteō to seek.

Had lowered (χαλασαντων — chalasantōn). Aorist active participle of χαλαζω — chalazō

Under colour (προπασει — prophasei). Possibly the same word as “prophecy” (from προπημι — prȯphēmi to speak forth), but here pretence, pretext, although it may come from προπαινω — prophainō to show forth. The use here is an old one and appears also in Mark 12:40; Luke 20:47; 1 Thessalonians 2:5; Philemon 1:18.

As though (ως — hōs). The alleged reason, a common Greek idiom with ως — hōs and the participle (Robertson, Grammar, p. 966). Here with μελλοντων — mellontōn

From the foreship (εκ πρωιρης — ek prēirōs). Old word for prow of the ship. In the N.T. only here and Acts 27:41. Note here εκτεινειν — ekteinein (lay out, stretch out) rather than ριπσαντες — rhipsantes (casting) in Acts 27:29, for they pretended to need the small boat to stretch out or lay out the anchors in front.

Except these abide in the ship (Εαν μη ουτοι μεινωσιν εν τωι πλοιωι — Ean mē houtoi meinōsin en tōi ploiōi). Condition of the third class (undetermined, but with hope, etc.). Paul has no hesitancy in saying this in spite of his strong language in Acts 27:24 about God‘s promise. He has no notion of lying supinely down and leaving God to do it all. Without the sailors the ship could not be properly beached.

The ropes (τα σχοινια — ta schoinia). Diminutive of σχοινος — schoinos old word, but in N.T. only here and John 2:15. Paul is now saviour of the ship and the soldiers quickly cut loose the skiff and “let her fall off” (ειασαν αυτην εκπεσειν — eiasan autēn ekpesein) rather than be the means of the escape of the sailors who were needed. This dastardly scheme of the sailors would have brought frightful loss of life.

While the day was coming on (αχρι ου ημερα ημελλεν γινεσται — achri hou hēmera ēmellen ginesthai). More likely here αχρι ου — achri hou (for αχρι τουτου ωι — achri toutou hēi) with the imperfect ημελλεν — ēmellen has its usual meaning, “until which time day was about to come on (γινεσται — ginesthai present middle infinitive, linear action).” That is Paul kept on exhorting or beseeching (παρεκαλει — parekalei imperfect active) them until dawn began to come on (cf. Acts 27:39 when day came). In Hebrews 3:13 αχρι ου — achri hou with the present indicative has to mean “so long as” or while, but that is not true here (Robertson, Grammar, p. 975). See note on Acts 2:46 for the same phrase for partaking food (metalambanō trophēs genitive case) as also in Acts 27:34. Paul wanted them to be ready for action when day really came. “Fourteenth day” repeated (Acts 27:27), only here in the accusative of duration of time (hēmeran). It is not clear whether the “waiting” (μεταλαμβανω τροπης — prosdokōntes present active participle predicate nominative complementary participle after ημεραν — diateleite Robertson, Grammar, p. 1121) means fourteen days of continuous fasting or only fourteen successive nights of eager watching without food. Galen and Dionysius of Halicarnassus employ the very idiom used here by Luke (προσδοκωντες — asitos diateleō).

Having taken nothing (διατελειτε — mēthen proslabomenoi). Second aorist middle participle of ασιτος διατελεω — proslambanō with the accusative μητεν προσλαβομενοι — mēthen rather than the more usual προσλαμβανω — mēden Probably Paul means that they had taken no regular meals, only bits of food now and then.

For this is for your safety (τουτο γαρ προς της υμετερας σωτηριας υπαρχει — touto gar pros tēs humeteras sōtērias huparchei). Note σωτηρια — sōtēria in sense of “safety,” literal meaning, not spiritual salvation. This is the only instance in the N.T. of the use of προς — pros with the ablative meaning “from the side of” your safety, though a classic idiom (Robertson, Grammar, p. 623), an example of Luke‘s literary style.

Perish (απολειται — apoleitai). Future middle (intransitive) of απολλυμι ̔υὠ — apollumi ‛̇uō' to destroy. So the oldest MSS. rather than πεσειται — peseitai from πιπτω — piptō to fall. This proverbial expression occurs also in Luke 21:18 which see and in 1 Samuel 14:45; 2 Samuel 14:11; 1 Kings 1:52.

Gave thanks to God (ευχαριστησεν τωι τεωι — eucharistēsen tōi theōi). First aorist active indicative of ευχαριστεω — eucharisteō from which our word “Eucharist” comes. It was saying grace like the head of a Hebrew family and the example of Paul would encourage the others to eat. Probably Paul, Luke, and Aristarchus had memories of the Lord‘s supper (Acts 2:42) while to others it was only an ordinary meal (Luke 24:30).

Then were they all of good cheer (ευτυμοι δε γενομενοι — euthumoi de genomenoi). More exactly, “Then all becoming cheerful,” because of Paul‘s words and conduct.

Took food (προσελαβοντο τροπης — proselabonto trophēs). Partitive genitive here (some food), not accusative as Acts 27:33. Paul‘s courage was contagious.

Two hundred three-score and sixteen souls (διακοσιαι εβδομηκοντα εχ — diakosiai hebdomēkonta hex). The Vatican Manuscript (B) has ως — hōs in place of διακοσιαι — diakosiai (two hundred) which Westcott and Hort put in the margin. But Alford is probably correct in suggesting that the scribe of B wrote ως — hōs by repeating the omega in πλοιωι — ploiōi with ς — s = 200 (Greek numeral). If the number 276 seems large, it is to be remembered that we do not know the size of the ship. Josephus (Life, 3) says that there were 600 on the ship that took him to Italy. The grain ships were of considerable size. The number included sailors, soldiers, and prisoners. A muster or roll call may have been made.

When they had eaten enough (κορεστεντες τροπης — koresthentes trophēs). First aorist passive of κορεννυμι — korennumi old verb to satisfy, to satiate, with the genitive. Literally, “Having been satisfied with food.” Here only in the N.T.

They lightened (εκουπιζον — ekouphizon). Inchoative imperfect active, began to lighten. Old verb from κουπος — kouphos and originally to be light, but transitive to lighten, as here, from Hippocrates on.

Throwing out the wheat (εκβαλλομενοι τον σιτον — ekballomenoi ton siton). The cargo of wheat. The second εκβολη — ekbolē (Acts 27:18) or casting out and overboard which was only partially done at first.

They knew not (ουκ επεγινωσκον — ouk epeginōskon). Imperfect active of επιγινωσκω — epiginōskō to recognize. Probably conative, tried to recognize and could not (Conybeare and Howson). The island was well-known (Acts 28:1, επεγνωμεν — epegnōmen), but St. Paul‘s Bay where the wreck took place was some distance from the main harbour (Valetta) of Melita (Malta).

They perceived (κατενοουν — katenooun). Imperfect active of κατανοεω — katanoeō gradually perceived after some effort as in Acts 11:16. This beach seemed their only hope.

They took counsel (εβουλευοντο — ebouleuonto). Imperfect middle showing the process of deliberation and doubt. The bay “having a beach” (εχοντα αιγιαλον — echonta aigialon) is a phrase found in Xenophon‘s Anabasis VI. 4, 4.

Whether they could drive (ει δυναιντο εκσωσαι — ei dunainto eksōsai). This use of the optative with ει — ei in questions of this sort (implied indirect) is a neat Greek idiom (Robertson, Grammar, p. 1021). B C Bohairic read εκσωσαι — eksōsai (first aorist active infinitive of εκσωζω — eksōzō), to save out (so Westcott and Hort), instead of εχωσαι — exōsai (from εχωτεω — exōtheō to push out, as Textus Receptus).

Casting off (περιελοντες — perielontes). Second aorist active of περιαιρεω — periaireō Literally, “Having taken away from around,” that is all four anchors from around the stern. Cf. the other verbs with αγκυρας — agkuras in Acts 27:29, Acts 27:30.

They left them in the sea (ειων εις την ταλασσαν — eiōn eis tēn thalassan). Imperfect active of εαω — eaō either descriptive or inchoative. They let the anchors go and the ropes fell down into the sea.

At the same time loosing the bands of the rudders (αμα ανεντες τας ζευκτηριας των πηδαλιων — hama anentes tas zeuktērias tōn pēdaliōn). On the use of αμα — hama with the participle, old Greek idiom see Robertson, Grammar, p. 1139. The second aorist active participle of ανιημι — aniēmi to relax, loosen up. Old verb, in N.T. Acts 16:26; Acts 27:40; Ephesians 6:9; Hebrews 13:5. Thayer notes that ζευκτηριας — zeuktērias (bands) occurs nowhere else, but several papyri use it of yokes and waterwheels (Moulton and Milligan‘s Vocabulary). The word for rudders (πηδαλιον — pēdalion) is an old one (from πηδον — pēdon the blade of an oar), but in the N.T. only here and James 3:4. Page notes that the ancient ships had a pair of paddle rudders like those of the early northmen, one on each quarter. The paddle rudders had been fastened while the ship was anchored.

Hoisting up the foresail to the wind (επαραντες τον αρτεμωνα τηι πνεουσηι — eparantes ton artemōna tēi pneousēi). Supply αυραι — aurāi (breeze) after πνεουσηι — pneousēi (blowing). It is not clear what “sail” is meant by “αρτεμωνα — artemōna No other example in Greek is known, though the scholiast to Juvenal XII. 68 explains ςελο προρα συο — velo prora suo by artemone solo. Hence “foresail” is probably correct.

They made for the beach (κατειχον εις τον αιγιαλον — kateichon eis ton aigialon). Imperfect active of κατεχω — katechō to hold down, perhaps inchoative. “They began to hold the ship steadily for the beach.”

But lighting upon (περιπεσοντες δε — peripesontes de). Second aorist active participle of περιπιπτω — peripiptō old verb to fall into and so be encompassed by as in Luke 10:30; James 1:2. There is a current on one side of St. Paul‘s Bay between a little island (Salmonetta) and Malta which makes a sand bank between the two currents. Unexpectedly the ship stuck in this sandbar.

Where two seas met (διταλασσον — dithalasson). Used in Strabo and Dio Chrysostom for divided seas (δισ ταλασσα — disεπεκειλαν την ναυν — thalassa).

They ran the vessel aground (επικελλω — epekeilan tēn naun). First aorist active indicative of old verb ναυς — epikellō to run a ship ashore. Only here in N.T. Here also we have the only N.T. use of ναω νεω — naus for ship (from ερεισασα — naōερειδω — neō to swim) so common in ancient Greek. Our word navy is from this word through the Latin.

Struck (ασαλευτος — ereisasa). First aorist active participle of α — ereidō old verb to fix firmly. Only here in N.T.

Unmoveable (σαλευω — asaleutos). From ελυετο — a privative and λυω — saleuō to shake. Old word. In N.T. only here and Hebrews 12:28.

Began to break up (elueto). Inchoative imperfect passive of the old verb luō to loosen. The prow was stuck in the sand-bar, and the stern was breaking to pieces by the opposing waves lashing on both sides. It was a critical moment.

Counsel was to kill (βουλη εγενετο ινααποκτεινωσιν — boulē egeneto hinȧ̇apokteinōsin). The soldiers did not relish the idea of the escape of the prisoners. Hence there came this “counsel” (βουλη — boulē). Regular Greek idiom for purpose (ινα — hina and aorist active subjunctive of αποκτεινω — apokteinō to kill). Soldiers were responsible for the lives of prisoners (Acts 12:19).

Swim out (εκκολυμβησας — ekkolumbēsas). First aorist active participle of εκκολυμβαω — ekkolumbaō old verb to swim out and so away.

Escape (διαπυγηι — diaphugēi). Second aorist (effective) active subjunctive of διαπευγω — diapheugō to make a clean (δια — dia) escape.

To save Paul (διασωσαι τον Παυλον — diasōsai ton Paulon). Effective first aorist active infinitive of διασωζω — diasōzō And no wonder for the centurion knew now how much they all owed to Paul.

Stayed them from their purpose (εκωλευσεν αυτους του βουληματος — ekōleusen autous tou boulēmatos Ablative case of βουλημα — boulēma after εκωλευσεν — ekōleusen (from κωλευω — kōleuō to hinder, common verb).

And get first to land (πρωτους εις την γην εχιεναι — prōtous eis tēn gēn exienai). This classic verb εχειμι — exeimi occurs four times in Acts 13:42; Acts 17:15; Acts 20:7; Acts 27:32 and nowhere else in the N.T. It was a wise command.

Some on planks (ους μεν επι σανισιν — hous men epi sanisin). Common Greek idiom (ους μενους δε — hous meṅ̇hous de) for “some--some.” The only N.T. instance of the old Greek word σανις — sanis for board or plank. The breaking of the ship gave scraps of timber which some used.

They all escaped safe (παντας διασωτηναι — pantas diasōthēnai). First aorist passive infinitive of διασωζω — diasōzō (the very word used for the desire of the centurion about Paul) with accusative of general reference, the clause being subject of εγενετο — egeneto So Luke in this marvellous narrative, worthy of any historian in any age, shows how Paul‘s promise was fulfilled (Acts 27:24). Paul the prisoner is the hero of the voyage and shipwreck, a wonderful example of God‘s providential care.