Acts 21:5

KJV

And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till [we were] out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} when {G3753} we {G2248} had {G1096} accomplished {G1822} those days {G2250}, we departed {G1831} and went our way {G4198}; and they all {G3956} brought {G4311} us {G2248} on our way {G4311}, with {G4862} wives {G1135} and {G2532} children {G5043}, till {G2193} we were out of {G1854} the city {G4172}: and {G2532} we kneeled down {G5087}{G1119} on {G1909} the shore {G123}, and prayed {G4336}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but when the week was over, we left to continue our journey. All of them, with their wives and children, accompanied us until we were outside the town. Kneeling on the beach and praying,

Berean Standard Bible

But when our time there had ended, we set out on our journey. All the disciples, with their wives and children, accompanied us out of the city and knelt down on the beach to pray with us.

American Standard Version

And when it came to pass that we had accomplished the days, we departed and went on our journey; and they all, with wives and children, brought us on our way till we were out of the city: and kneeling down on the beach, we prayed, and bade each other farewell;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 21:5 vividly portrays a poignant moment in Paul's third missionary journey as he departs from Tyre, having completed his stay. This verse captures the deep bond of fellowship between Paul and the local believers, who, along with their families, accompanied him out of the city. The scene culminates in a powerful, communal act of prayer on the seashore, underscoring the early church's reliance on divine guidance and spiritual unity in the face of an uncertain future.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the latter part of Paul's third missionary journey, specifically detailing his determined return to Jerusalem. The preceding verses (Acts 21:1-4) describe Paul's stop in Tyre, where he stayed for seven days with disciples. Crucially, [Acts 21:4](/acts/21-4 "Acts 21:4 - The Spirit's Warning in Tyre") notes that these disciples, "through the Spirit, told Paul not to go on to Jerusalem." Acts 21:5, therefore, marks the moment of departure from Tyre, following this Spirit-inspired warning, highlighting Paul's unwavering resolve to continue his journey despite the prophetic counsel. The subsequent verses (Acts 21:6-16) will detail further stops and warnings, culminating in Paul's arrival in Jerusalem and the trials that await him. The narrative flow emphasizes Paul's steadfast commitment to his mission, even when it leads to hardship.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's journey to Jerusalem was not merely a return trip but a significant pilgrimage, likely coinciding with a Jewish feast, possibly Pentecost, as hinted at in [Acts 20:16](/acts/20-16 "Acts 20:16 - Paul's Haste to Jerusalem for Pentecost"). Tyre, a prominent Phoenician port city, had a diverse population, including a Christian community that had likely grown since the initial spread of the gospel (cf. [Acts 11:19](/acts/11-19 "Acts 11:19 - Disciples Scattered to Phoenicia")). The act of "bringing someone on their way" (propempein) was a common courtesy and expression of honor and support in the ancient world, often involving accompanying travelers for a distance. Kneeling for prayer was a widely recognized posture of humility, reverence, and earnest supplication in both Jewish and early Christian traditions, signifying deep submission to God's will and fervent intercession. The public nature of this farewell and prayer on the shore would have been a visible testimony to their faith and unity.

* **Key Themes:** Acts 21:5 significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Acts and Paul's ministry. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Christian Community and Fellowship**. The presence of "all" the disciples, including "wives and children," underscores the holistic and inclusive nature of the early church, where mutual support and deep affection transcended individual roles. This communal solidarity is a recurring motif, as seen in the early Jerusalem church's shared life ([Acts 2:42-47](/acts/2-42-47 "Acts 2:42-47 - The Fellowship of the Believers")) and Paul's farewells to other communities ([Acts 20:36-38](/acts/20-36-38 "Acts 20:36-38 - Paul's Farewell to the Ephesian Elders")). Secondly, the verse highlights the **Primacy and Power of Prayer**. The communal act of kneeling and praying on the shore before a challenging journey emphasizes absolute reliance on God's sovereignty and provision, a pattern consistently demonstrated by Paul ([Acts 16:25](/acts/16-25 "Acts 16:25 - Paul and Silas Pray in Prison")) and the early church ([Acts 4:23-31](/acts/4-23-31 "Acts 4:23-31 - The Believers' Prayer")). Lastly, it subtly reinforces **Paul's Unwavering Commitment to His Mission**, even in the face of prophetic warnings and emotional farewells. Despite the Spirit's counsel not to go to Jerusalem, Paul's resolve, rooted in obedience to his divine calling, remains steadfast, foreshadowing the trials he is prepared to endure for the sake of the gospel ([Acts 20:22-24](/acts/20-22-24 "Acts 20:22-24 - Paul's Resolve to Go to Jerusalem")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **accomplished (Greek, _exartízō'_):** This word (G1822) means "to finish out (time)" or "to equip fully." In this context, it refers to the completion of the "days" Paul and his companions spent in Tyre. It implies a sense of fulfillment or bringing to an end a defined period, suggesting that their stay had served its purpose and was now complete, allowing for the next stage of their journey.
* **kneeled down (Greek, _títhēmi_ with _góny'_):** The KJV translates the combination of G5087 (_títhēmi_, "to place" or "to set") and G1119 (_góny_, "knee") as "kneeled down." While _títhēmi_ broadly means to place or put, its usage here with "knee" specifically denotes the physical act of bending the knees to the ground. This posture is universally recognized as one of humility, reverence, and intense supplication in prayer, indicating a deep spiritual earnestness and submission to God.
* **prayed (Greek, _proseúchomai'_):** This word (G4336) specifically means "to pray to God," emphasizing an act of supplication or worship directed towards the divine. It signifies a conscious and intentional communication with God, seeking His presence, guidance, or intervention. The use of this term here highlights the spiritual nature of the farewell and the communal reliance on God for the journey ahead.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when we had accomplished those days,"**: This clause establishes the temporal setting, indicating the completion of the seven-day stay in Tyre mentioned in [Acts 21:4](/acts/21-4 "Acts 21:4 - The Spirit's Warning in Tyre"). The term "accomplished" (exartízō) suggests a purposeful completion of their time there, perhaps implying that all necessary fellowship and spiritual exchange had taken place.
* **"we departed and went our way;"**: This signifies the physical act of leaving Tyre, continuing Paul's journey towards Jerusalem. It marks a decisive transition from their period of rest and fellowship to the resumption of travel, despite the warnings they had received.
* **"and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till [we were] out of the city:"**: This is a powerful depiction of communal solidarity and affection. The entire Christian community, including women and children, accompanied Paul and his companions to the city's outskirts. This act of "bringing on their way" (propempein) was a customary gesture of honor, support, and farewell, emphasizing the deep bond and mutual care within the early church. It underscores that the church was not just a gathering of men but a family unit.
* **"and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed."**: This climactic action highlights the spiritual depth of the farewell. The choice of the shore, a liminal space between land and sea, adds symbolic weight to the moment of transition. The collective act of kneeling signifies humility, reverence, and earnest supplication before God. This communal prayer was a solemn moment of seeking divine protection, guidance, and strength for Paul's challenging journey, demonstrating their profound reliance on God in the face of uncertainty and impending hardship.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 21:5 employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The scene is imbued with **Pathos**, evoking a strong sense of emotion through the tender farewell and the unified act of prayer. The imagery of "wives and children" accompanying Paul underscores the deep affection and human connection, making the departure particularly poignant. **Symbolism** is evident in the choice of location: the **shore** serves as a liminal space, a boundary between the known and the unknown, land and sea, symbolizing transition, departure, and the crossing into a new, potentially perilous phase of Paul's journey. The act of **kneeling** itself is highly symbolic, representing humility, reverence, and profound submission to God's will, especially in a moment of significant decision and impending trial. The collective nature of the action ("they all brought us... we kneeled down... and prayed") highlights **Unity** and **Solidarity** within the Christian community, demonstrating a shared faith and mutual support. Finally, the solemnity and earnestness of this farewell, following the Spirit's warnings in [Acts 21:4](/acts/21-4 "Acts 21:4 - The Spirit's Warning in Tyre"), subtly employs **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the difficulties and suffering that await Paul in Jerusalem, lending a somber yet resolute tone to the narrative.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 21:5 offers a rich theological tapestry, weaving together themes of Christian community, the power of prayer, and unwavering commitment to God's calling. The communal farewell, involving entire families, powerfully illustrates the deep koinonia (fellowship) that characterized the early church, where believers were bound by more than just shared beliefs—they were a spiritual family, supporting one another through life's transitions and trials. This scene underscores that faith is not a solitary journey but a communal endeavor, strengthened by mutual encouragement and shared spiritual disciplines. The act of communal prayer, particularly in a moment of significant departure and prophetic warning, highlights the church's absolute reliance on God's sovereignty and grace. It is a testament to the belief that divine guidance and strength are essential for navigating life's difficult paths. Paul's resolute continuation of his journey, despite the emotional farewell and the Spirit-inspired warnings, further emphasizes the theme of obedience to divine calling, even when it leads to suffering, mirroring the steadfastness required of all who follow Christ.

* [Hebrews 10:25](/hebrews/10-25 "Hebrews 10:25 - Do Not Forsake Assembling")
* [Philippians 4:6-7](/philippians/4-6-7 "Philippians 4:6-7 - Prayer and Peace")
* [Acts 20:24](/acts/20-24 "Acts 20:24 - Paul's Resolve to Finish His Race")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 21:5 provides a poignant and practical blueprint for contemporary believers navigating life's transitions and challenges. The scene of the Tyrian believers accompanying Paul, including their wives and children, serves as a powerful reminder of the indispensable value of Christian community. In a world that often promotes individualism, this passage calls us to actively cultivate deep, supportive relationships within our spiritual families. We are reminded that we are not meant to walk alone, especially when facing difficult decisions or embarking on new phases of life. Just as the Tyrian church offered their presence and prayers, we too are called to be present for one another, offering tangible support and spiritual encouragement. The communal act of kneeling in prayer on the shore underscores the absolute necessity of prioritizing prayer, particularly in moments of uncertainty or before significant undertakings. It teaches us to collectively and individually bring our plans, fears, and hopes before God, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His wisdom and strength. This deep reliance on God through prayer fosters peace and confidence, enabling us to move forward with faith, even when the path ahead is unclear or fraught with warnings. Ultimately, Paul's unwavering commitment, despite the emotional cost and prophetic warnings, challenges us to reflect on our own dedication to God's calling in our lives. It encourages perseverance, reminding us that true faithfulness often requires courage to step into the unknown, trusting that God's plan, though it may involve hardship, is always for our good and His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I actively participate in and contribute to the supportive community of my local church, especially during times of transition or difficulty for myself or others?**
* **In what ways can I make communal and personal prayer a more central and intentional practice in my life, particularly when facing significant decisions or challenges?**
* **What is God calling me to persevere in, even when the path seems difficult or uncertain, and how can I draw strength from His presence and the support of fellow believers?**

### FAQ

**Why did the entire community, including women and children, accompany Paul out of the city?**

Answer: The act of "bringing someone on their way" (propempein in Greek) was a deeply ingrained cultural practice in the ancient world, signifying honor, respect, and heartfelt support for a departing traveler. The inclusion of "wives and children" underscores the holistic nature of the early Christian community in Tyre. It demonstrates that the fellowship extended beyond just the men or leaders; it encompassed entire families, highlighting their unified affection and solidarity with Paul. This communal farewell was a powerful visual testimony to their deep bond and their shared commitment to the gospel, emphasizing that the church functioned as a spiritual family, united in purpose and love.

**What is the significance of kneeling on the shore to pray?**

Answer: Kneeling is a universal posture of humility, reverence, and earnest supplication in prayer, signifying deep submission to God's will and fervent intercession. The choice of the "shore" (aigialós) adds symbolic depth to the moment. As a liminal space between land and sea, it represents a point of transition and departure, a boundary between the known and the unknown. Praying at such a threshold underscores the believers' and Paul's reliance on God as they moved into an uncertain future. It was a solemn, public act of seeking divine guidance, protection, and strength before embarking on a challenging and potentially dangerous leg of Paul's journey to Jerusalem, as foreshadowed by the warnings in [Acts 21:4](/acts/21-4 "Acts 21:4 - The Spirit's Warning in Tyre"). This collective prayer also emphasizes the communal aspect of their faith and their shared dependence on God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 21:5, while detailing a poignant human farewell, finds its deepest resonance in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The communal support and fervent prayer witnessed here mirror the ultimate example set by Christ Himself. Just as the Tyrian believers accompanied Paul, Christ continually walks with His disciples, offering an abiding presence and interceding for them before the Father ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession")). The act of kneeling in prayer, a posture of humility and submission, profoundly echoes Jesus' own life of prayer, particularly His agonizing prayer in Gethsemane ([Luke 22:41-44](/luke/22-41-44 "Luke 22:41-44 - Jesus Prays in Gethsemane")), where He submitted His will to the Father's, even unto suffering and death. Paul's unwavering commitment to his mission, despite the warnings and emotional goodbyes, reflects the perfect obedience of Christ, who "humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross" ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). The solidarity of the church in Tyre, gathering as one family, also foreshadows the eschatological reality of the church as the unified body of Christ, bound together by the Spirit, reflecting the love and unity found within the Godhead ([Ephesians 4:1-3](/ephesians/4-1-3 "Ephesians 4:1-3 - Unity in the Spirit")). Thus, this scene is not merely a historical account but a living testament to the Christ-like qualities of community, prayerful dependence, and steadfast obedience that define the life of faith.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 20:36

¶ And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.

Acts 9:40

But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning [him] to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.

Acts 20:38

Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

Psalms 95:6

O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.

Acts 15:3

And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

Deuteronomy 29:11

Your little ones, your wives, and thy stranger that [is] in thy camp, from the hewer of thy wood unto the drawer of thy water:

Deuteronomy 29:12

That thou shouldest enter into covenant with the LORD thy God, and into his oath, which the LORD thy God maketh with thee this day: