### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term λίψ (líps), Strong's number `{{G3047}}`, fundamentally denotes the "southwest wind." Its etymological root is often linked to a verb meaning "to pour" (as in a libation), suggesting an inherent association with precipitation. This connection is vital, as the southwest wind in the Mediterranean region frequently brings moisture and rain. By extension, λίψ also came to signify the "southwest quarter" or "direction" itself, indicating a specific point on the compass. Thus, its semantic range encompasses both a meteorological phenomenon (a rain-bearing wind) and a geographical orientation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term λίψ (líps) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts:
* [[Acts 27:12]]: "And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised to put to sea from there, if somehow they might reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete, looking toward the southwest and northwest."
In this passage, Paul and his companions are on a perilous sea voyage to Rome. The context is maritime navigation and the search for a safe harbor for the winter. The harbor at Fair Havens is deemed "not suitable to winter in" (ἀνεύθετος πρὸς παραχειμασίαν) because it was "looking toward the southwest (κατὰ λίβα) and northwest (κατὰ χῶρον)." Here, λίψ is used to describe the orientation of the harbor, indicating that it was exposed to the powerful and potentially dangerous southwest winds. The implication is that a harbor open to such winds would not provide adequate shelter for ships during the stormy winter months. This usage highlights the practical understanding of winds and geography in the ancient world, crucial for safe passage and survival at sea. The descriptive power of λίψ conveys the challenging environmental conditions faced by the early missionaries.
### Related Words & Concepts
While λίψ specifically refers to the southwest wind or direction, it is part of a broader lexical field concerning winds and cardinal directions. Other Greek terms for winds include ἄνεμος (ánemos, `{{G417}}`, a general term for wind), νότος (nótos, `{{G3570}}`, the south wind), βορρᾶς (borrhás, `{{G991}}`, the north wind), and εὐροκλύδων (euroklydōn, `{{G2148}}`, a tempestuous east-northeast wind, also in Acts 27). The ancient world, especially in a maritime context, relied heavily on understanding wind patterns for travel and agriculture. The concept of "quarters" or "directions" is also evident in terms like ἀνατολή (anatolē, `{{G395}}`, east/sunrise) and δυσμαί (dysmai, west/sunset, though not a specific Strong's number in NT). The specificity of λίψ underscores the detailed meteorological knowledge possessed by people of that era, particularly sailors.
### Theological Significance
Given its singular occurrence in a descriptive, geographical context, the term λίψ itself does not carry overt theological significance. However, its presence in the narrative of Acts 27 contributes to the broader theological theme of divine providence amidst human vulnerability and natural forces. The detailed description of winds, harbors, and navigational challenges underscores the realism of the biblical account, grounding the spiritual journey of Paul in the tangible realities of the physical world. God's sovereignty is often demonstrated through His control over creation, including the winds and the sea (e.g., [[Psalm 107:25]], [[Mark 4:41]]). While λίψ merely describes a natural phenomenon, it serves as a backdrop against which God's protective hand over His servant Paul is ultimately revealed, as Paul's life is miraculously preserved despite the storm. It reminds us that even seemingly mundane details in Scripture contribute to the comprehensive picture of God's interaction with humanity and His world.
### Summary
The Greek term λίψ (líps, `{{G3047}}`) denotes the "southwest wind" and, by extension, the "southwest quarter." Its etymological connection to "pouring" suggests its association with rain. Appearing only once in the New Testament, in [[Acts 27:12]], it describes the orientation of a harbor in Crete, indicating its exposure to the formidable southwest winds, rendering it unsuitable for wintering ships. While not bearing direct theological weight, its inclusion highlights the meticulous detail of the biblical narrative and the practical knowledge of ancient mariners. Ultimately, λίψ contributes to the vivid portrayal of the challenging natural environment in which God's providential care for His people unfolds.