from παρά and the middle voice of λέγω (in its original sense); (specially), to lay one's course near, i.e. sail past:--pass, sail by.
Transliteration:paralégomai
Pronunciation:par-al-eg'-om-ahee
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term παραλέγομαι (paralégomai, `{{G3881}}`) is a compound verb derived from the preposition παρά (pará, `{{G3844}}`), meaning "alongside," "by," or "near," and the middle voice of λέγω (légō, `{{G3004}}`). While λέγω typically means "to speak" or "to say," its more ancient and original sense, relevant here, pertains to "laying," "gathering," or "arranging." Thus, the compound παραλέγομαι fundamentally conveys the action of "laying one's course near" or "sailing alongside." Its semantic range is quite specific, primarily referring to maritime navigation: to sail past a particular point, coast, or landmass, or to sail very close to shore. The middle voice suggests an action undertaken for oneself or with a particular intention, emphasizing the deliberate nature of the navigational choice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term παραλέγομαι (paralégomai, `{{G3881}}`) appears exclusively in the book of Acts, specifically within the detailed account of Paul's perilous sea voyage to Rome. Its two occurrences are highly contextualized within this narrative of maritime travel:
* In [[Acts 27:8]], the text states, "And with difficulty sailing along it, we came to a place called Fair Havens, near which was the city of Lasea." Here, "sailing along it" (παραλεγόμενοι αὐτὴν) describes the arduous process of the ship navigating close to the coast of Crete. The difficulty implies a challenging passage, requiring careful seamanship to stay near the land.
* Similarly, in [[Acts 27:13]], it is recorded, "Now when the south wind blew gently, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, they weighed anchor and sailed along Crete, very close to shore." The phrase "sailed along Crete" (παρελέγοντο τὴν Κρήτην) again denotes the act of sailing near the coastline. This instance highlights a moment of perceived advantage, as the gentle wind allowed them to maintain a course close to land, seemingly fulfilling their intention to reach a safer harbor.
In both instances, παραλέγομαι underscores the precise and often challenging nature of ancient seafaring, emphasizing the ship's proximity to land as a navigational strategy, whether for shelter, to avoid open seas, or to follow a specific route. The meticulous detail provided by Luke concerning the voyage lends credibility to the narrative and sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding παραλέγομαι (paralégomai, `{{G3881}}`) is enhanced by considering related Greek terms and concepts:
* **παρά (pará, `{{G3844}}`):** The preposition "alongside," "near," or "by," which forms the first part of the compound, is crucial to its meaning of proximity in sailing.
* **λέγω (légō, `{{G3004}}`):** While primarily meaning "to speak," its original sense of "laying" or "collecting" informs the idea of "laying one's course."
* **πλέω (pleō, `{{G4131}}`):** The general verb "to sail," which provides the broader context of maritime travel. παραλέγομαι describes a specific *manner* of sailing.
* **πλοῦς (plous, `{{G4144}}`):** "A voyage" or "sailing," referring to the journey itself.
* **ναῦς (naus, `{{G3491}}`):** "Ship," the vessel central to the action.
* **Concepts of Navigation:** The term evokes the practicalities of ancient navigation, including coastal sailing, tacking against winds, seeking shelter, and the constant assessment of conditions. These concepts are prevalent throughout the accounts of sea travel in Acts, such as the descriptions in [[Acts 21:3]], [[Acts 27:4]], and [[Acts 28:13]].
### Theological Significance
Though a technical nautical term, the use of παραλέγομαι (paralégomai, `{{G3881}}`) in the Acts narrative carries subtle theological implications. The meticulous detailing of Paul's journey, including the specific ways the ship sailed, serves to underscore the reality and historical grounding of the biblical account. God's providential care is not abstract but operates within the concrete realities of human experience, including the dangers of sea travel.
The act of "sailing along" or "sailing past" can symbolize the journey of faith itself:
* **Divine Guidance Amidst Peril:** Even when facing storms and difficulties, the ship is guided, sometimes with great effort, along a specific course. This mirrors the believer's journey, often challenging, yet under the sovereign hand of God. The detailed description of the voyage in Acts 27 highlights God's intricate involvement in preserving Paul's life and mission, even through seemingly mundane navigational decisions.
* **Purposeful Progress:** The deliberate "laying of a course" signifies purposeful progress. Despite setbacks, the ultimate destination (Rome, and the spreading of the Gospel) is never lost from view. The "sailing past" specific points of interest or danger signifies moving through trials rather than being overwhelmed by them.
* **The Ordinariness of God's Work:** The use of precise, everyday language for sailing reminds us that God's work unfolds not only in dramatic miracles but also in the mundane, the difficult, and the seemingly ordinary aspects of life. The care taken in sailing along the coast, though seemingly insignificant, was part of God's plan to bring Paul safely to Rome.
### Summary
The Greek word παραλέγομαι (paralégomai, `{{G3881}}`) precisely describes the act of "sailing along" or "sailing past" a coastline or landmass, implying a deliberate and often challenging navigational maneuver. Its exclusive occurrences in [[Acts 27:8]] and [[Acts 27:13]] provide vivid details of Paul's arduous sea voyage to Rome, emphasizing the ship's proximity to the coast. While primarily a technical nautical term, its use contributes to the historical veracity of Luke's account and subtly highlights the theme of divine providence. It underscores that God's sovereign plan unfolds within the tangible realities of human experience, guiding His servants through perilous journeys with purposeful precision, even through the seemingly ordinary acts of "sailing alongside."
TRV