Acts 27:13

And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained [their] purpose, loosing [thence], they sailed close by Crete.

And {G1161} when the south wind {G3558} blew softly {G5285}, supposing {G1380} that they had obtained {G2902} their purpose {G4286}, loosing {G142} thence, they sailed {G3881} close by {G788} Crete {G2914}.

When a gentle southerly breeze began to blow, they thought that they had their goal within grasp; so they raised the anchor and started coasting by Crete close to shore.

When a gentle south wind began to blow, they thought they had their opportunity. So they weighed anchor and sailed along, hugging the coast of Crete.

And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, they weighed anchor and sailed along Crete, close in shore.

Acts 27:13 KJV captures a moment of deceptive calm during Paul's perilous sea voyage to Rome. After being held in Fair Havens, a less-than-ideal harbor for winter, the crew and centurion hoped to reach a more suitable port like Phoenix on the island of Crete.

Context

This verse is crucial in the narrative of Paul's journey as a prisoner to Rome to stand trial before Caesar. Earlier, Paul, having experience with sea travel, had warned them about the dangers of continuing the voyage, stating it would be with "much hurt and much damage" (Acts 27:10). However, the centurion and the ship's master chose to disregard his counsel, trusting instead in the favorable conditions that suddenly appeared. The ship, likely a large grain vessel, was carrying Paul and other prisoners, highlighting the high stakes involved in their decisions regarding ancient seafaring and navigation in the Mediterranean.

Key Themes

  • Deceptive Appearances: The "south wind blew softly" offered a seemingly perfect window for sailing. This gentle breeze, however, was a trap, leading them to believe they had favorable conditions when severe danger was imminent. It serves as a powerful reminder that not all good feelings or opportune circumstances lead to positive outcomes; appearances can be deceiving.
  • Human Presumption: The phrase "supposing that they had obtained their purpose" underscores human overconfidence and the tendency to assume control over circumstances. Despite Paul's prophetic warning, the crew and centurion trusted their own judgment and the temporary good weather. This often contrasts with the sovereignty of God's plan, which often unfolds independently of human expectations and plans.
  • Consequences of Ignoring Counsel: The decision to sail, despite Paul's warning, directly led to the devastating storm described shortly after (Acts 27:14). This illustrates the biblical principle that rejecting wise, Spirit-led advice can have severe repercussions, emphasizing the importance of heeding counsel.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "supposing" is doxantes (δόξαντες), which implies forming an opinion or thinking, often without full certainty or complete knowledge. It suggests they *thought* they had achieved their goal, rather than having *actually* achieved it. The "south wind" (Greek: notos) was typically a favorable wind in the Mediterranean for westward travel, making their assumption understandable but ultimately flawed in this instance.

Practical Application

Acts 27:13 offers timeless lessons for modern life. It encourages us to exercise caution when circumstances appear too good to be true, especially if they contradict wise counsel or spiritual discernment. Just as the soft south wind led to disaster, seemingly easy paths can sometimes lead to unforeseen difficulties. This verse reminds us to seek and heed godly wisdom, rather than relying solely on our own judgment or superficial conditions. It prompts us to trust in God's providence even when our plans seem to be going smoothly, remembering that we do not know what a day may bring forth and that true security comes from aligning with God's will, not merely favorable circumstances.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Luke 12:55

    And when [ye see] the south wind blow, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass.

  • Song Of Solomon 4:16

    Awake, O north wind; and come, thou south; blow upon my garden, [that] the spices thereof may flow out. Let my beloved come into his garden, and eat his pleasant fruits.

  • Psalms 78:26

    He caused an east wind to blow in the heaven: and by his power he brought in the south wind.

  • Job 37:17

    How thy garments [are] warm, when he quieteth the earth by the south [wind]?

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