Κνίδος

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word Knídos, represented by G2834, is the name for Cnidus, a place in Asia Minor. The word, which is probably of foreign origin, appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse within the scriptures.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single appearance of G2834 is in the narrative of Paul's journey to Rome. The ship had sailed slowly for many days and only with great difficulty (scarce) did they come to a point over against Cnidus. At this location, the wind was so unfavorable that it did not permit them to continue on their intended course. This forced them to change direction and seek shelter by sailing under the lee of Crete Acts 27:7.

Related Words & Concepts

The context of the journey to Cnidus is further clarified by several related Greek words found in the same passage:

• G1020 bradyploéō (to sail slowly): This word describes the slow and difficult progress of the ship leading up to its arrival near Cnidus Acts 27:7.
• G3433 mólis (with difficulty): This emphasizes the struggle involved in reaching the location, where they arrived "scarce" or "hardly" Acts 27:7.
• G417 ánemos (wind): This identifies the specific natural force that prevented the ship from making further progress past Cnidus Acts 27:7.
• G5284 hypopléō (to sail under the lee of): This describes the action taken as a direct result of being thwarted by the winds at Cnidus, as they then sailed under the protection of Crete Acts 27:7.

Theological Significance

While not a theological term, the mention of G2834 carries narrative weight in the book of Acts. It serves to mark a specific point of challenge and redirection in the voyage.

• Geographical Obstacle: Cnidus functions as a key landmark where the journey's progress was halted by adverse conditions, specifically the contrary wind Acts 27:7.
• Narrative Turning Point: The inability to continue past Cnidus forces a critical decision to alter course. This rerouting toward Crete sets the stage for the subsequent storm and shipwreck detailed later in the chapter.
• Emphasis on Peril: The slow pace and difficulty in just reaching the vicinity of Cnidus underscores the perilous nature of the sea voyage from its early stages.

Summary

In summary, G2834 Knídos is a geographical name whose sole biblical mention is functional rather than symbolic. It grounds the narrative of Paul's voyage in real-world geography, serving as a pivotal point where the travelers faced a significant obstacle. Its appearance highlights the physical challenges and divine providence that characterized the journey to Rome.