### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term Λασαία (Lasaía, `{{G2996}}`) is a proper noun, specifically a geographical place name. Its base definition indicates it is "of uncertain origin" and refers to "Lasæa, a place in Crete." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to its denotation as a specific location. It does not possess a range of abstract or figurative meanings typically associated with common nouns, verbs, or adjectives. Its significance is entirely dependent on its contextual usage within the biblical narrative, serving primarily as a geographical marker.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word Λασαία (Lasaía, `{{G2996}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts: [[Acts 27:8]].
The context is crucial for understanding its role. Paul is being transported as a prisoner to Rome, and his ship is navigating the treacherous waters south of Crete. The verse states, "And with difficulty sailing past it, we came to a place called Fair Havens, near which was the city of Lasea."
Here, Lasea functions as a geographical reference point, a city situated near "Fair Havens" (Καλὸς Λιμήν), which was evidently a more significant anchorage. The mention of Lasea anchors the narrative in a specific, identifiable location, adding verisimilitude to Luke's detailed account of the voyage. The ship's passage past this location underscores the challenging nature of their journey, as they had to sail "with difficulty" to reach Fair Havens, where they subsequently remained for some time due to the dangerous season for sea travel. Lasea is not a place of action but a fixed point on a perilous journey, serving as a backdrop to the unfolding events and decisions.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that Λασαία (Lasaía, `{{G2996}}`) is a unique geographical reference, related words and concepts primarily revolve around its narrative context:
* **Crete (Κρήτη, `{{G2914}}`):** The island on which Lasea is located, central to the narrative of Paul's voyage in [[Acts 27]].
* **Fair Havens (Καλὸς Λιμήν):** The harbor near Lasea where the ship sought refuge. This location is more prominent in the narrative as the site of Paul's warning regarding the dangers of continuing the journey ([[Acts 27:9-10]]).
* **Sea Voyage & Shipwreck (ναυαγέω, related to `{{G3491}}`):** The broader theme of the chapter, highlighting the perils of ancient sea travel and the ultimate shipwreck, which Lasea serves as an early landmark in that journey.
* **Divine Providence vs. Human Wisdom:** The decision-making process at Fair Havens, near Lasea, sets the stage for the conflict between Paul's divinely inspired warning and the centurion's reliance on the pilot's and shipowner's advice ([[Acts 27:11]]).
### Theological Significance
While Λασαία (Lasaía, `{{G2996}}`) itself carries no inherent theological meaning, its inclusion in the biblical narrative contributes to several theological insights:
1. **Historical Veracity:** The specific mention of a known, albeit minor, geographical location like Lasea lends credibility to Luke's account of Paul's journey. It grounds the miraculous and providential events within a concrete historical and geographical framework, affirming the Bible's claim to be a record of real events.
2. **Divine Sovereignty Amidst Human Circumstance:** Lasea marks a point in a journey fraught with danger and human misjudgment. Even in the seemingly mundane details of travel and geography, the narrative subtly points to God's overarching plan for Paul to reach Rome, despite storms, shipwrecks, and human decisions that go against divine counsel. The journey *through* such places is part of God's purpose.
3. **The Context for Prophetic Warning:** Lasea's proximity to Fair Havens means it forms part of the immediate setting for Paul's prophetic warning about the dangers of continuing the voyage. This highlights the importance of heeding divine guidance, even when it contradicts conventional wisdom or practical experience.
### Summary
Λασαία (Lasaía, `{{G2996}}`) is a unique Greek proper noun, referring to a specific city in Crete, mentioned only once in the New Testament in [[Acts 27:8]]. Its primary function is to serve as a geographical landmark, anchoring Luke's detailed account of Paul's perilous sea voyage to Rome. While not possessing inherent theological meaning, its inclusion underscores the historical veracity of the biblical narrative and provides a concrete setting for the unfolding of divine providence amidst human decisions and natural challenges. It is a subtle yet significant detail that grounds the spiritual journey within the realities of the physical world.
TRV