Acts 27:27

KJV

But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in Adria, about midnight the shipmen deemed that they drew near to some country;

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} when {G5613} the fourteenth {G5065} night {G3571} was come {G1096}, as we {G2257} were driven up and down {G1308} in {G1722} Adria {G99}, about {G2596} midnight {G3319}{G3571} the shipmen {G3492} deemed {G5282} that they {G846} drew near {G4317} to some {G5100} country {G5561};

Complete Jewish Bible

It was the fourteenth night, and we were still being driven about in the Adriatic Sea, when around midnight the sailors sensed that we were nearing land.

Berean Standard Bible

On the fourteenth night we were still being driven across the Adriatic Sea. About midnight the sailors sensed they were approaching land.

American Standard Version

But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven to and fro in the sea of Adria, about midnight the sailors surmised that they were drawing near to some country:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 27:27 describes a pivotal moment during Paul's perilous voyage to Rome, marking the fourteenth consecutive night the ship had been relentlessly driven by a severe storm across the Adriatic Sea. Around midnight, the experienced mariners aboard the vessel, despite the darkness and the chaos, discerned subtle signs indicating their proximity to land, a realization that brought both the potential for salvation and the immediate danger of shipwreck. This verse highlights the extreme duration of their trial and foreshadows the impending dramatic events of their deliverance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 27:27 is situated within the extended narrative of Paul's journey to Rome as a prisoner, beginning in [Acts 27:1](/acts/27-1 "Acts 27:1 - Paul's Voyage Begins"). The preceding verses detail the initial stages of the voyage, the warnings issued by Paul that were ignored ([Acts 27:9-11](/acts/27-9-11 "Acts 27:9-11 - Paul's Warning Ignored")), and the onset of a fierce northeasterly gale, the "Euroclydon" or "Euraquilo" ([Acts 27:14](/acts/27-14 "Acts 27:14 - The Storm Euroclydon")). The ship had been violently tossed for days, leading to extreme despair among all on board, with hope for survival vanishing ([Acts 27:20](/acts/27-20 "Acts 27:20 - All Hope Abandoned")). Paul's prophetic assurance of divine protection and the preservation of all lives, delivered after an angelic visitation, sets the stage for this verse, transforming the shipmen's "deeming" into a tangible step towards the fulfillment of God's promise ([Acts 27:21-26](/acts/27-21-26 "Acts 27:21-26 - Paul's Prophecy of Deliverance")). This verse marks a turning point from passive endurance to active preparation for landing.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The voyage described in Acts 27 took place during the autumn sailing season, typically a dangerous time for Mediterranean travel due to unpredictable storms. Roman maritime practices of the era involved large grain ships, often carrying hundreds of people and cargo, making them vulnerable to severe weather. "Adria" (G99 Adrías) in the first century CE referred to a much larger body of water than the modern Adriatic Sea, encompassing the central Mediterranean between Sicily, Italy, Greece, and North Africa, precisely where the ship was being driven. Shipmen, or sailors, were highly skilled professionals who relied on observations of stars, winds, currents, and the sound of waves to navigate. In the absence of modern instruments, their ability to "deem" proximity to land in the dead of night would have been based on subtle changes in the depth (which they would confirm by taking soundings in [Acts 27:28](/acts/27-28 "Acts 27:28 - Taking Soundings")), the type of waves, or the smell of land, indicating their professional expertise and the severity of their situation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within the book of Acts and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Providence and Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's meticulous control over natural forces and human circumstances, even amidst chaos, to ensure His purposes are fulfilled. The shipmen's professional assessment aligns perfectly with God's pre-declared plan for Paul's arrival in Rome and the safety of all on board, as revealed in [Acts 27:24](/acts/27-24 "Acts 27:24 - God's Promise to Paul"). Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Endurance and Hope in Adversity**. After fourteen nights of relentless storm, the mere suspicion of land, however dangerous, represents a glimmer of hope after prolonged despair, illustrating the human capacity to persevere and the divine timing of deliverance. Finally, it subtly weaves together **Human Agency and Divine Guidance**. While the shipmen use their expertise to navigate and make critical decisions, their actions are ultimately subsumed within God's overarching plan, leading them toward the destined shipwreck on [Malta](/acts/28-1 "Acts 28:1 - Shipwreck on Malta"), where Paul would continue his ministry.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **driven up and down (Greek, _diaphérō'_):** From the Greek G1308, meaning "to bear through," or "to bear apart," implying to be tossed about or carried through. In this context, it vividly conveys the relentless, uncontrolled movement of the ship at the mercy of the storm for an extended period, highlighting the extreme vulnerability and exhaustion of those on board. It emphasizes the sheer force of the elements against which human effort was futile.
* **night (Greek, _nýx'_):** From the Greek G3571, a primary word for "night," used literally for the period of darkness. Paired with "fourteenth" (G5065 _tessareskaidékatos_), it stresses the prolonged duration of the storm, emphasizing the continuous state of peril and the absence of light, both literally and figuratively, for nearly two weeks. This extended period of darkness amplifies the sense of despair and the miraculous nature of the eventual deliverance.
* **deemed (Greek, _hyponoéō'_):** From the Greek G5282, meaning "to think under (privately)," "to surmise," or "to conjecture." This word suggests an educated guess or a strong suspicion based on professional observation, rather than a mere wishful thought. For experienced sailors, this "deeming" would have been based on subtle but significant changes in the sound of the waves breaking, the feel of the current, or perhaps the smell of land, indicating an imminent change in their situation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But when the fourteenth night was come,"**: This opening clause marks a critical temporal shift. The conjunction "But" (G1161 _dé_) signals a transition from the general state of being "driven" to a specific, climactic moment. The emphasis on "the fourteenth night" underscores the extraordinary duration of their ordeal—nearly two full weeks of continuous, life-threatening storm. This extended period highlights the physical and psychological toll on everyone aboard, setting the stage for a dramatic turning point.
* **"as we were driven up and down in Adria,"**: This phrase reiterates the ship's helpless state and the vast, dangerous expanse of the sea they were traversing. "Driven up and down" (G1308 _diaphérō_) paints a picture of violent, uncontrolled motion, emphasizing the ship's complete subjection to the storm's fury. The mention of "Adria" (G99 _Adrías_) grounds the narrative geographically, reminding the reader of the specific, treacherous waters of the central Mediterranean where their struggle for survival was taking place.
* **"about midnight the shipmen deemed that they drew near to some country;"**: This final clause introduces the pivotal realization. "About midnight" (G2596 _katá_ G3319 _mésos_ G3571 _nýx_) specifies the exact moment of this crucial discernment, adding to the dramatic tension. The "shipmen" (G3492 _naútēs_), experienced mariners, "deemed" (G5282 _hyponoéō_) or surmised their proximity to land. This was not a random guess but an informed professional judgment based on subtle cues, indicating a significant change in their environment. The phrase "drew near to some country" (G4317 _proságō_ G5100 _tìs_ G5561 _chṓra_) signifies the dawning realization of either impending salvation or immediate danger, as approaching land in a storm often meant shipwreck.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative of Acts 27:27 employs several powerful literary devices. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as the shipmen's "deeming" that they "drew near to some country" subtly hints at the impending shipwreck on Malta, which will serve as a dramatic stage for God's continued work through Paul. The phrase "fourteenth night" functions as **Hyperbole** and **Symbolism**, emphasizing the extraordinary duration of the storm and symbolizing the prolonged, seemingly endless trials that individuals or communities can face. It amplifies the sense of despair and the miraculous nature of the eventual deliverance. The use of **Pathos** is evident in the description of being "driven up and down," evoking a sense of human helplessness and the overwhelming power of nature. Furthermore, there's a subtle **Dramatic Irony**: the shipmen believe they are merely approaching "some country," unaware that this approach is part of God's precise plan, leading them to a specific island (Malta) where Paul's ministry will continue, fulfilling the divine promise given in [Acts 27:24](/acts/27-24 "Acts 27:24 - God's Promise to Paul").

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 27:27 profoundly illustrates the intersection of human experience and divine providence. The "fourteenth night" represents the culmination of extreme human endurance and despair, yet precisely at this point, the shipmen's professional discernment aligns with God's unfolding plan. This is not merely a coincidence but a testament to God's active involvement in the minutiae of life, guiding events even through natural phenomena and human skill. The verse serves as a powerful reminder that God's promises are unfailing, even when circumstances seem utterly hopeless. His deliverance often comes after prolonged periods of trial, strengthening faith and revealing His unwavering commitment to His people and His purposes. The "deeming" of land, though initially a source of renewed anxiety (as it could mean shipwreck), is ultimately the first tangible sign of the fulfillment of God's promise to Paul that no lives would be lost.

* [Acts 27:24](/acts/27-24 "Acts 27:24 - God's Promise of Deliverance to Paul")
* [Psalm 107:29-30](/psalms/107-29-30 "Psalm 107:29-30 - God Stills the Storm and Guides to Harbor")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 27:27 offers profound encouragement and insight for believers navigating the storms of life. The "fourteenth night" vividly portrays the reality of prolonged suffering and seemingly endless trials. Just as the shipmen, after days of being "driven up and down" in utter despair, sensed a change, we too can trust that even in our darkest and longest nights, God is actively at work, bringing His purposes to pass. This verse challenges us to cultivate a deep-seated hope that transcends immediate circumstances, reminding us that God's deliverance often manifests not in the immediate cessation of the storm, but in guiding us through it to a new, albeit challenging, destination. It calls us to remain vigilant and discerning, recognizing the subtle signs of God's hand at work even when the path ahead is unclear. Our faith is strengthened not by the absence of storms, but by the assurance that God is sovereign over them, guiding us towards our ultimate destination and fulfilling His promises, just as He did for Paul and all on board.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "fourteenth nights" are you currently experiencing in your life, where hope seems distant?**
* **How can you cultivate a discerning spirit to recognize God's subtle guidance even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty?**
* **In what ways does this passage encourage you to trust God's timing for deliverance, rather than expecting immediate relief?**
* **How does the shipmen's professional "deeming" of land, combined with Paul's divine assurance, illustrate the interplay between human effort and divine providence in your own life?**

### FAQ
**What is "Adria" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: "Adria" (Greek: Adrías) in the first century CE referred to a much larger body of water than the modern Adriatic Sea. It encompassed a broad region of the central Mediterranean, specifically the waters between Sicily, Italy, Greece, and North Africa. This broad definition is crucial for understanding the ship's trajectory as it was driven off course from Crete towards Malta. The ship carrying Paul was being driven across this vast, open sea, far from its intended route, highlighting the severity and duration of the storm.

**Why is "the fourteenth night" significant?**

Answer: The mention of "the fourteenth night" is highly significant because it emphasizes the extreme duration and relentless nature of the storm. For nearly two full weeks, those on board had endured continuous peril, exhaustion, and despair, with no sun or stars visible to guide them ([Acts 27:20](/acts/27-20 "Acts 27:20 - All Hope Abandoned")). This extended period of suffering underscores the miraculous nature of their survival and the precise timing of God's intervention. It highlights the depth of their trial before the glimmer of hope (and impending shipwreck) appeared.

**How did the shipmen "deem" they were near land in the middle of the night?**

Answer: As experienced mariners, the shipmen would have relied on various subtle cues to "deem" or surmise their proximity to land, even in the darkness of midnight. These cues could include changes in the sound of the waves (e.g., a different breaking pattern indicating shallower water), the feel of the currents, or even the smell of land (vegetation, earth). Their suspicion was quickly confirmed by taking soundings, as described in [Acts 27:28](/acts/27-28 "Acts 27:28 - Taking Soundings"), which revealed rapidly decreasing depths, indicating they were indeed approaching a coastline. This was a professional assessment, not a mere guess.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 27:27, while a historical account of Paul's journey, resonates with profound Christ-centered truth. The ship being "driven up and down" in the tumultuous sea serves as a powerful metaphor for the human condition, often tossed by the storms of sin, suffering, and uncertainty. Just as the shipmen faced a "fourteenth night" of seemingly endless despair, humanity often finds itself in deep spiritual darkness, far from the safe harbor of God's presence. Yet, in Christ, we find our ultimate Deliverer and the one who has absolute sovereignty over all creation, including the fiercest storms. Jesus demonstrated this power when He calmed the raging sea, commanding the winds and waves to be still ([Mark 4:39](/mark/4-39 "Mark 4:39 - Jesus Calms the Storm")). He is the true Captain of our souls, guiding us through life's tempests, even when we feel utterly lost. The "deeming" of land by the shipmen, though a natural observation, ultimately points to Christ as the one who brings us to our true "country"—the heavenly kingdom and eternal rest that awaits those who trust in Him ([Hebrews 11:16](/hebrews/11-16 "Hebrews 11:16 - A Better Country")). His journey to the cross and resurrection was the ultimate "fourteenth night" of suffering, through which He secured our salvation and promises to bring us safely to our eternal home, fulfilling God's perfect plan for our lives, just as He did for Paul's voyage to Rome.

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

Jonah 1:6

So the shipmaster came to him, and said unto him, What meanest thou, O sleeper? arise, call upon thy God, if so be that God will think upon us, that we perish not.

Acts 27:30

And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had let down the boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have cast anchors out of the foreship,

1 Kings 9:27

And Hiram sent in the navy his servants, shipmen that had knowledge of the sea, with the servants of Solomon.

Revelation 18:17

For in one hour so great riches is come to nought. And every shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade by sea, stood afar off,