Acts 27:4

KJV

And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2547} when we had launched {G321} from thence {G2547}, we sailed under {G5284} Cyprus {G2954}, because {G1223} the winds {G417} were {G1511} contrary {G1727}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Putting to sea from there, we sailed close to the sheltered side of Cyprus because the winds were against us,

Berean Standard Bible

After putting out from there, we sailed to the lee of Cyprus because the winds were against us.

American Standard Version

And putting to sea from thence, we sailed under the lee of Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 27:4 marks a crucial early stage in Paul's arduous sea voyage to Rome as a prisoner, detailing the immediate challenge encountered after departing Sidon. The ship, aiming for Italy, was forced to alter its course and sail under the lee of Cyprus due to strong, opposing headwinds. This verse not only highlights the practical realities and inherent difficulties of ancient maritime travel but also subtly introduces the theme of adversity that will characterize much of the perilous journey ahead for Paul and his companions.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Luke's meticulously detailed account of Paul's journey to Rome, which spans the entirety of [Acts 27](/acts/27 "Acts 27 - Paul's Voyage to Rome") and [Acts 28](/acts/28 "Acts 28 - Paul in Malta and Rome"). Having appealed to Caesar, Paul is being transported under Roman guard. The narrative begins in [Caesarea](/acts/27-1 "Acts 27:1 - Paul Departs Caesarea"), with an initial stop in [Sidon](/acts/27-3 "Acts 27:3 - Paul in Sidon") where Paul was permitted to visit friends. Acts 27:4 describes the very next leg of the journey, immediately following their departure from Sidon. The "contrary winds" serve as the first in a series of escalating challenges—culminating in a catastrophic shipwreck—that underscore the providential nature of Paul's mission and eventual arrival in Rome. Luke, as an eyewitness and participant, provides a level of nautical and geographical detail that lends significant credibility to the narrative.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient seafaring was highly dependent on wind patterns, as ships were primarily sail-powered. Unlike modern vessels, they lacked engines to navigate directly against strong headwinds. Sailors would often "sail under the lee" of an island or coastline, meaning they would keep the landmass between the ship and the wind, using the land as a natural barrier to create calmer waters and more favorable conditions for sailing. Cyprus, a large island in the eastern Mediterranean, would have provided such shelter from westerly or northwesterly winds. The decision to sail under Cyprus rather than attempting to fight the winds directly demonstrates the practical wisdom and necessity of adapting to the unpredictable and often dangerous conditions of the open sea in the Roman era. This journey was not a pleasure cruise but a perilous undertaking, especially for a prisoner transport.
* **Key Themes:** The encounter with "contrary winds" in [Acts 27:4](/acts/27-4 "Acts 27:4 - Contrary Winds Near Cyprus") introduces several significant themes that resonate throughout the broader narrative of Paul's journey and beyond. Firstly, it highlights **Adversity and Obstacles**, portraying the reality that even divinely appointed missions encounter significant, sometimes unexpected, setbacks. The winds are a tangible representation of the opposition that often arises when pursuing God's will. Secondly, it showcases **Adaptability and Prudence**, as the crew's decision to seek shelter under Cyprus demonstrates practical wisdom and the necessity of adjusting plans in the face of insurmountable challenges. This echoes a broader biblical principle of using wisdom and discernment in difficult circumstances. Lastly, while not explicitly stated in this single verse, the entire chapter implicitly points to **Divine Providence**. The "contrary winds" are not random but become part of a larger divine plan that ultimately ensures Paul's arrival in Rome, fulfilling God's purpose for his ministry, much like the promise in [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good") that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **contrary (Greek, _enantíos'_):** From G1727, meaning "opposite" or, figuratively, "antagonistic." In this context, it vividly describes the wind blowing directly against their intended course, making forward progress impossible without a change in strategy. It conveys a sense of direct opposition and resistance.
* **winds (Greek, _ánemos'_):** From G417, referring to "wind." The plural form emphasizes the strength and pervasive nature of the opposing atmospheric conditions. In biblical literature, winds often symbolize divine power, change, or, as here, external forces that impede or direct human endeavors.
* **sailed under (Greek, _hypopléō'_):** From G5284, meaning "to sail under the lee of." This technical nautical term describes the action of navigating on the sheltered side of an island or landmass to avoid the full force of the wind. It signifies a strategic maneuver to find protection and make progress, albeit by a longer, circuitous route.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when we had launched from thence":** This phrase marks the departure from Sidon, the previous port of call mentioned in [Acts 27:3](/acts/27-3 "Acts 27:3 - Paul's Stop in Sidon"). It signifies the continuation of the journey towards Rome, initiating the next phase of their sea travel.
* **"we sailed under Cyprus":** This describes the specific navigational decision made by the ship's crew. Instead of attempting to sail directly westward across the open sea towards Italy, they chose to hug the coastline of Cyprus, utilizing the island's landmass to shield them from the prevailing winds. This was a common and prudent tactic in ancient sailing.
* **"because the winds were contrary":** This clause provides the crucial reason for their altered course. The "contrary winds" were strong and blowing against their desired direction, rendering a direct route impractical or impossible. This highlights the immediate and significant obstacle they faced, forcing a deviation from their original plan.

#### Literary Devices
Luke's account in Acts 27:4 employs several effective literary devices. **Narrative Detail** is prominent, as Luke, an apparent eyewitness, provides precise geographical and nautical information ("sailed under Cyprus," "winds were contrary"). This attention to detail lends authenticity and verisimilitude to the account, grounding the spiritual narrative in historical reality. The "contrary winds" also function as **Symbolism**, representing the various forms of opposition and adversity that Paul—and indeed, any believer—might encounter while pursuing God's will. They are not merely meteorological phenomena but also a metaphor for life's unexpected challenges. Furthermore, the verse contains an element of **Foreshadowing**, subtly hinting at the greater trials and dangers that await Paul and his companions later in the voyage, particularly the impending shipwreck. This initial obstacle sets a tone of struggle and reliance on divine guidance for the journey ahead.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 27:4, with its depiction of "contrary winds" forcing a detour, speaks to the profound theological truth that God's purposes often unfold not in a straight line, but through unexpected detours and difficulties. While human plans may be thwarted by external circumstances, God's sovereign hand remains at work, guiding events even through adversity. The practical decision to sail under Cyprus illustrates human prudence and adaptability, yet it is ultimately within the framework of God's overarching plan to bring Paul to Rome for the spread of the Gospel. This incident reminds believers that obstacles are not necessarily indicators of being off-track, but can be part of the divine itinerary, shaping character and revealing new paths for ministry. God's wisdom often transcends our immediate understanding of efficient routes, using challenges to refine faith and demonstrate His power.

* [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "Proverbs 16:9 - The Lord Directs Our Steps")
* [Isaiah 55:8-9](/isaiah/55-8-9 "Isaiah 55:8-9 - God's Thoughts are Higher")
* [2 Corinthians 12:9-10](/2_corinthians/12-9-10 "2 Corinthians 12:9-10 - God's Grace is Sufficient in Weakness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 27:4 offers a powerful and enduring lesson for believers navigating the complexities of their own lives. Just as Paul's journey encountered literal "contrary winds," we too will inevitably face unforeseen obstacles, setbacks, and detours that impede our plans or challenge our sense of direction. This verse encourages us to cultivate a posture of both realistic expectation and resilient faith. We must acknowledge that life's journey is rarely a smooth, straight path, and that challenges are an inherent part of growth and purpose. When direct routes are blocked, wisdom dictates that we, like the ancient mariners, seek alternative, safer, or more effective ways forward, demonstrating adaptability and flexibility. This might involve adjusting our strategies, seeking counsel, or simply waiting patiently for God's timing. Crucially, even when circumstances force us into unexpected detours, we are called to trust in God's sovereign guidance. These "contrary winds" may not be random but part of His larger design to lead us to our ultimate destination, perhaps even strengthening our faith, deepening our reliance on Him, or opening doors to new opportunities we could not have envisioned on our original course. Our response to adversity reveals the depth of our trust in the One who holds all things in His hands.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "contrary winds" are you currently facing in your life, ministry, or personal journey?**
* **How have you responded to unexpected obstacles in the past? Did you fight against them, or did you seek an alternative, "under the lee" path?**
* **In what ways might God be using a present detour or difficulty to refine your character or redirect your path toward a greater purpose?**
* **How does this verse encourage you to trust God's sovereignty even when circumstances seem to be working against your plans?**

### FAQ

**Why did Paul's ship sail "under Cyprus" instead of directly towards Rome?**

Answer: The ship sailed "under Cyprus" because the winds were "contrary," meaning they were blowing directly against their intended westward course towards Italy. In ancient seafaring, ships were primarily sail-powered and could not effectively sail directly into strong headwinds. By sailing "under" or "to the lee" of Cyprus, the large island provided a natural shield from the powerful winds, creating calmer waters on its sheltered side. This allowed the ship to make progress, albeit by a longer, more circuitous route, rather than being stalled or driven off course in the open sea. It was a practical and necessary navigational maneuver to continue their journey safely, as detailed in [Acts 27:4](/acts/27-4 "Acts 27:4 - The Reason for Sailing Under Cyprus").

**What is the spiritual significance of "contrary winds" in this narrative?**

Answer: While literally referring to adverse weather conditions, the "contrary winds" in [Acts 27:4](/acts/27-4 "Acts 27:4 - Symbolism of Contrary Winds") carry significant spiritual symbolism. They represent the unexpected obstacles, challenges, and adversities that believers often encounter while pursuing God's will or fulfilling their divine calling. Just as the winds forced a change in Paul's journey, life's difficulties can force us to adapt, seek alternative paths, or rely more deeply on God's guidance. These "winds" are not always a sign of being off track; rather, they can be part of God's sovereign plan to test faith, develop character, or even redirect us to a more purposeful destination, as seen in the broader narrative of Paul's journey to Rome.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 27:4, with its depiction of "contrary winds" forcing a detour, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the life and mission of Jesus Himself, and subsequently in the journey of every believer united with Him. Just as Paul faced literal opposition on his journey to fulfill God's purpose in Rome, Jesus' entire earthly ministry was characterized by "contrary winds" of opposition from religious authorities, the temptations of Satan, and ultimately, the path to the cross. His journey was not a straight, easy ascent to glory, but one marked by suffering, rejection, and a seemingly circuitous route through Gethsemane and Golgotha. Yet, it was precisely through this path of adversity that God's ultimate purpose of redemption was achieved, culminating in His resurrection and ascension. For believers, our journey with Christ is similarly marked by the promise of tribulation in this world, as Jesus Himself warned in [John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World"), but also the assurance of His peace and ultimate victory. We are called to follow the One who endured the ultimate "contrary winds" of sin and death, knowing that through Him, our own detours and difficulties are not meaningless but are integrated into God's sovereign plan, working to conform us to His image and advance His kingdom, ultimately leading us to our eternal destination in Him, as [Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings") speaks of sharing in His sufferings and becoming like Him in His death.

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 4:36

And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, [and] of the country of Cyprus,

Acts 11:19

¶ Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.

Acts 11:20

And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.

Acts 15:39

And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;

Acts 13:4

¶ So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.

Matthew 14:24

But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.

Acts 27:7

And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over against Salmone;