G3519

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word νησίον (nēsion), translated as “islet” or “small island,” holds particular significance in biblical and ancient Greek texts. Understanding the geographical terms used in the Bible offers us richer insight into the physical landscapes that shaped biblical narratives. Found in Acts 27:16, nēsion appears during the Apostle Paul’s treacherous sea voyage to Rome, providing us with a glimpse into the Mediterranean world and the challenges of ancient travel. By studying words like nēsion, we gain greater appreciation for how the geography and maritime routes of the ancient world influenced biblical stories and early Christian journeys.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: νησίον (nēsion), pronounced nay-see-on.

Etymology: The root of nēsion is νῆσος (nēsos), meaning “island.” The suffix -ιον forms a diminutive, thus rendering nēsion as a “small island” or “islet.” This term likely emphasizes the modest size of the geographical feature being described.

Part of Speech: Noun (neuter). In this context, nēsion refers to a physical feature, specifically a small island. It is used in the nominative, accusative, or genitive cases depending on the sentence structure.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. Small Island: The primary meaning of nēsion is a small island or islet, typically in reference to geographical features in the Mediterranean. In Acts 27:16, it refers to a small island near Crete called Cauda (modern-day Gavdos), where Paul’s ship sought refuge during a storm.

2. Maritime Significance: In ancient times, islets like the one referenced in Acts were often used by sailors for protection against the elements or as landmarks for navigation. Nēsion emphasizes the practical aspect of these smaller land masses in ancient seafaring.

Exploring Similar Words

1. νῆσος (nēsos) [pronunciation: nay-sos]: This word means “island” in general. It differs from nēsion in that it refers to islands of any size, while nēsion specifically denotes a smaller island.

2. ὀχθή (ochthē) [pronunciation: ok-thay]: While not directly related, this term refers to a “shore” or “bank.” It differs from nēsion as it refers to the edge of a landmass rather than the island itself.

3. πελάγος (pelagos) [pronunciation: pe-la-gos]: This word means “sea” or “open ocean.” It stands in contrast to nēsion, which is a fixed land feature, whereas pelagos refers to the water surrounding it.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: Nēsion is a neuter noun that follows the standard declension patterns for neuter nouns in Greek. It can be found in singular or plural form, depending on the context, although in the New Testament it appears in the singular form in Acts 27:16.

Declension: As a second-declension neuter noun, the endings for nēsion follow the typical pattern:

• Nominative singular: νησίον

• Genitive singular: νησίου

• Dative singular: νησίῳ

• Accusative singular: νησίον

For further study on Greek grammar, Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In ancient Greek literature, nēsion is used to refer to islets or small islands in the Mediterranean. In the context of the New Testament, its use in Acts 27:16 highlights the maritime culture of the time and Paul’s perilous journey. Lexicons such as BDAG and LSJ confirm the diminutive nature of nēsion, drawing a clear distinction between it and larger islands (nēsos). Its inclusion in the biblical narrative offers a glimpse into the logistical aspects of ancient travel and the importance of even small geographical features in providing shelter or navigational markers.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Acts 27:16 – “Running under a certain small island [νησίον] which is called Clauda, we were hardly able to come by the boat.”

In this passage, nēsion refers to the small island of Clauda, where Paul’s ship found temporary refuge during a fierce storm.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Text

Herodotus Histories “They reached a small island [νησίον] and set up camp.”

Thucydides The Peloponnesian War “The fleet passed by many small islands [νησία].”

Septuagint Ezekiel 26:15 “The coastlands [νησία] shall tremble at the sound of your downfall.”

In classical Greek literature, nēsion and related terms often refer to small islands in the Mediterranean, providing context for travel and battles.

Noteworthy Summary

The word nēsion (νησίον), meaning “small island” or “islet,” plays a significant role in maritime contexts, particularly in Acts 27:16 during Paul’s journey to Rome. Its diminutive form highlights the practical role of smaller land masses in ancient seafaring, providing shelter and navigational landmarks. Understanding nēsion enriches our comprehension of the Mediterranean world and its influence on biblical events. Furthermore, the word’s etymology and usage throughout Greek literature and the Bible illustrate its consistent meaning across various contexts.

Did You Know?

1. Nēsion specifically refers to a “small island,” often used in maritime navigation for shelter or as a landmark.

2. The island of Clauda, mentioned in Acts 27:16, still exists today under the name Gavdos, located off the southern coast of Crete.

3. Small islands like nēsion were often vital in the perilous voyages of the ancient Mediterranean world, providing essential places of refuge during storms.