### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **orguiá**, represented by `{{G3712}}`, is defined as **a stretch of the arms, i.e. a fathom**. It appears **2 times** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term originates from the concept of a stretch of the arms, providing a specific unit of measurement for depth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G3712}}` is used to describe a nautical measurement of depth. In the narrative of a storm-tossed ship, sailors **sounded** the sea and found the depth to be twenty **fathoms** [[Acts 27:28]]. After proceeding a short distance, they sounded again and found the water had shallowed to fifteen **fathoms**, indicating their proximity to land [[Acts 27:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{G3712}}` in its biblical context, providing a fuller picture of the scene:
* `{{G1001}}` **bolízō** (to heave the lead:--sound.): This is the action taken by the sailors to measure the depth in **fathoms** [[Acts 27:28]].
* `{{G1501}}` **eíkosi** (a score:--twenty): This word specifies the first depth measurement taken, **twenty** fathoms [[Acts 27:28]].
* `{{G1178}}` **dekapénte** (ten and five, i.e. fifteen): This word denotes the second measurement of **fifteen** fathoms, indicating the ship was nearing shore [[Acts 27:28]].
* `{{G1024}}` **brachýs** (short (of time, place, quantity, or number):--few words, little (space, while).): This term is used to describe the "little further" distance the ship traveled between the two soundings [[Acts 27:28]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G3712}}` is found in its literal and narrative function rather than in abstract theology.
* **Grounding in Reality:** The use of a specific unit of measure like the **fathom** adds a layer of concrete detail to the account in Acts, emphasizing the real-world peril of the voyage.
* **Driving the Narrative:** The change in depth from twenty to fifteen **fathoms** is a critical piece of information for the sailors, directly influencing their actions as they realize they are approaching land [[Acts 27:28]].
* **Illustrating Diligence:** The measurement in **fathoms** is the result of the sailors' action to **sound** `{{G1001}}` the sea, demonstrating practical human effort within the unfolding events of the story.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3712}}` **orguiá** is a precise term for a **fathom**, defined as the stretch of a man's arms. Though it appears only twice in a single verse, its role is pivotal to the narrative in which it is found. It provides a tangible measurement of danger and deliverance, grounding the account of the shipwreck in Acts in the practical realities of ancient seafaring. The word serves as a reminder that the biblical text includes specific, technical details that are crucial for understanding the progression of the story.
TRV