### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dithálassos**, represented by `{{G1337}}`, is a descriptive term meaning **where two seas meet**. Derived from δίς (twice) and θάλασσα (sea), it refers to a sound or shoal with a double outlet. It is an exceptionally rare word in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{G1337}}` is in the dramatic account of Paul's shipwreck. In [[Acts 27:41]], the vessel is described as **falling** `{{G4045}}` into a **place** `{{G5117}}` **where two seas met**. In this specific location, the crew ran the **ship** `{{G3491}}` aground. The result was that the forepart of the ship stuck fast and remained **unmoveable** `{{G761}}`, while the stern was **broken** `{{G3089}}` by the **violence** `{{G970}}` of the **waves** `{{G2949}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the scene where `{{G1337}}` is found:
* `{{G4045}}` **peripíptō** (to fall among): This word describes how the ship came upon the hazardous location, by **falling** into it. The same word is used figuratively for when believers **fall** into temptations [[James 1:2]].
* `{{G2027}}` **epokéllō** (run aground): This is the action taken by the crew to **beach a vessel** at the place where the two seas met. Its only biblical use is in this passage [[Acts 27:41]].
* `{{G761}}` **asáleutos** (unmoveable): The ship's bow became lodged and **unmoveable** on the shoal. This same word is used in a positive sense to describe the eternal kingdom believers receive, **which cannot be moved** [[Hebrews 12:28]].
* `{{G3089}}` **lýō** (to loosen, break, destroy): The violent waves at the `dithálassos` caused the ship's hinder part to be **broken**. This word is also used theologically, as when the Son of God was manifested to **destroy** the works of the devil [[1 John 3:8]].
* `{{G970}}` **bía** (force, violence): This term describes the power of the waves that destroyed the ship. The same word is used to describe the **violence** of a crowd from which soldiers had to protect Paul [[Acts 21:35]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G1337}}` is a geographical term, its context offers a powerful illustration of being caught in overwhelming circumstances.
* **A Place of Trial:** The act of **falling** `{{G4045}}` into the `dithálassos` uses the same language as falling into trials [[James 1:2]], framing the location as a physical manifestation of a severe test.
* **Destructive Power:** The place is defined by the **violence** `{{G970}}` of the waves that ultimately **break** `{{G3089}}` the ship, serving as a vivid picture of destructive forces at work.
* **Trapped and Broken:** The ship becomes simultaneously **unmoveable** `{{G761}}` at the front and broken at the back. This contrasts the perilous immovability of being stuck in a trial with the secure and eternal nature of God's kingdom, which also **cannot be moved** [[Hebrews 12:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1337}}` is a highly specific term for a place **where two seas meet**. Its sole appearance in [[Acts 27:41]] pinpoints the exact location of a shipwreck. Though not a theological term itself, its context within this narrative—a place of trial where a vessel is both stuck fast and broken apart—provides a potent metaphor for being caught between powerful, destructive forces, drawing a sharp contrast with the unshakable security found in God's kingdom.
TRV