G4950
σύρτις
a shoal (from the sand drawn thither by the waves), i.e. the Syrtis Major or great bay on the north coast of Africa
Transliteration
sýrtisPronunciation
(soor'-tis)Everything you need to know.
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a shoal (from the sand drawn thither by the waves), i.e. the Syrtis Major or great bay on the north coast of Africa
σύρτις(sýrtis)
Strong’s Definition
a shoal (from the sand drawn thither by the waves), i.e. the Syrtis Major or great bay on the north coast of Africa
from G4951 (σύρω);
“Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and so were driven.”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
Strong's G4950: A proper noun referring to the Syrtis, dangerous sandbars off North Africa's coast. Used in Acts during Paul's stormy voyage, symbolizing deadly maritime hazards from which God delivers His messenger.
U- Unveiling the Word
Σύρτις represents both physical and spiritual danger in maritime contexts. It specifically refers to two treacherous sandbanks off North Africa's coast, feared by ancient sailors for their shifting nature and deadly currents. In Acts, it appears during Paul's perilous journey to Rome, where the crew feared being driven into these hazardous waters. The early church saw this word as symbolic of life's dangers and God's faithful deliverance. Today, it reminds us that the Lord guides His people through life's threatening circumstances.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
For compound words:
Not a compound word, but derived from the action of being drawn or dragged
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
As a proper noun, Σύρτις exhibits these features:
Examples of morphological changes:
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S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes Σύρτις's reputation for maritime danger. Thayer's notes its location and hazardous nature. LSJ documents extensive classical references to shipwrecks. Vine's connects it to divine protection. Strong's highlights its etymology from dragging. LEH traces similar maritime hazard descriptions. Moulton and Milligan find it common in shipping documents warning of dangers.
T - Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the [Σύρτις] quicksands, strake sail, and so were driven. Acts 27:17
Additional References:
None - This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
Σύρτις powerfully illustrates how God guides His people through life's greatest dangers. In Paul's journey, the crew's fear of these deadly sandbanks highlights the real perils faced, yet demonstrates how the Messiah's purposes prevail even through threatening circumstances.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4950: A proper noun referring to the Syrtis, dangerous sandbars off North Africa's coast. Used in Acts during Paul's stormy voyage, symbolizing deadly maritime hazards from which God delivers His messenger.
Part of speech: Proper Noun
Tags: Syrtis, shipwreck, Paul, divine protection, maritime, danger, Acts, journey, deliverance, providence