### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekpléō**, represented by `{{G1602}}`, is a specific term used to mean **to depart by ship**. Formed from the words ἐκ (from) and πλέω (to sail), it appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage is confined to the book of Acts, where it marks the beginning of a sea voyage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1602}}` is used exclusively to describe the missionary travels of the apostles. In one instance, after a "sharp **contention**" between Paul and Barnabas, Barnabas took Mark and **sailed** to **Cyprus** `{{G2954}}` [[Acts 15:39]]. The term is also used when Paul, after fulfilling a **vow** `{{G2171}}` in **Cenchrea** `{{G2747}}`, **sailed thence** into **Syria** `{{G4947}}` with Priscilla and Aquila [[Acts 18:18]]. Finally, it describes the departure of the author and his companions who **sailed away** from **Philippi** `{{G5375}}` toward **Troas** `{{G5174}}` [[Acts 20:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the journeys initiated by `{{G1602}}`:
* `{{G3948}}` **paroxysmós** (incitement... or dispute): This word describes the "sharp **contention**" that directly led to Barnabas and Mark sailing to Cyprus [[Acts 15:39]], showing that these departures were not always harmonious.
* `{{G657}}` **apotássomai** (to say adieu... take leave): This action often precedes the departure. Paul **took his leave** of the brethren before he sailed for Syria, indicating a formal farewell [[Acts 18:18]].
* `{{G2954}}` **Kýpros** (Cyprus): This identifies a key destination. As an island in the Mediterranean, it was a region reached specifically by sea travel, such as when Barnabas **sailed** there [[Acts 15:39]].
* `{{G5375}}` **Phílippoi** (Philippi): This specifies a point of origin for a journey. The disciples **sailed away** from this place in Macedonia after observing the days of unleavened bread [[Acts 20:6]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G1602}}` lies in its role as a marker for key transitions in the early church's mission.
* **Missionary Advancement:** The act of sailing away propels the gospel into new territories. Paul's departure for **Syria** `{{G4947}}` continues his planned missionary work [[Acts 18:18]], and the voyage from Philippi to **Troas** `{{G5174}}` is another step in that apostolic journey [[Acts 20:6]].
* **Providential Redirection:** The departure of Barnabas and Mark for **Cyprus** `{{G2954}}` was born from a dispute, yet it resulted in the creation of a separate missionary team, effectively broadening the reach of their ministry work [[Acts 15:39]].
* **Personal Faith:** Paul’s sailing in [[Acts 18:18]] is immediately preceded by the fulfillment of a personal **vow** `{{G2171}}`, demonstrating how these larger missionary movements were intertwined with the individual piety and devotion of the apostles.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1602}}` is more than a logistical term for travel. While it literally means to **depart by ship**, its use in the book of Acts chronicles pivotal moments in the expansion of the early church. It highlights how missionary journeys were initiated for strategic purposes, as a result of personal conviction, and even in the midst of interpersonal conflict, all of which were instrumental in the spread of the gospel throughout the Mediterranean world.
TRV