### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G3896 παραπλέω (parapléō) is a compound term formed from the preposition παρά (para), meaning "beside," "alongside," or "near," and the verb πλέω (pleō), meaning "to sail." Etymologically, it conveys the sense of "to sail alongside" or "to sail near." The core semantic range of παραπλέω emphasizes movement past a specific point or location without stopping or making port. It describes a continuous maritime journey that bypasses a particular destination, indicating proximity and passage rather than arrival or direct engagement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb G3896 παραπλέω appears only once in the New Testament, found in [[Acts 20:16]]. In this singular occurrence, Luke recounts a pivotal decision made by the Apostle Paul during his third missionary journey: "For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be in Jerusalem, if possible, on the day of Pentecost." The context is crucial for understanding the nuance of the word. Paul's choice to "sail past" (παραπλέω) Ephesus, a city where he had previously spent a significant and impactful period of ministry (cf. [[Acts 19:1-41]]), highlights his strategic urgency. He was determined to reach Jerusalem by the Feast of Pentecost, and therefore, he deliberately bypassed a major city that could have led to unforeseen delays due to the extensive relationships and ministry opportunities he had there. The use of παραπλέω underscores the intentionality of his action, emphasizing a direct, unhindered passage rather than a casual or accidental oversight.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate G3896 παραπλέω, it is helpful to consider its constituent parts and related terms within the semantic field of maritime travel. The base verb πλέω `{{G4126}}` (pleō) is the general term for "to sail" or "to navigate" and is used broadly in the New Testament to describe sea voyages (e.g., [[Acts 21:3]], [[Acts 27:6]]). The preposition παρά `{{G3844}}` (para) frequently denotes proximity, movement alongside, or even deviation, and its compounding with verbs often signifies a passing by or going beyond. Other related terms describing aspects of sailing include ἀνάγομαι `{{G321}}` (anagomai), "to put out to sea," καταπλέω `{{G2671}}` (katapleō), "to sail down, arrive," and διαπλέω `{{G1278}}` (diapleō), "to sail across." παραπλέω is distinct from these in its specific emphasis on the act of *bypassing* a location, signifying a strategic decision to avoid a stop rather than simply arriving at or departing from a port. It conveys the concept of expedited travel or intentional avoidance.
### Theological Significance
While G3896 παραπλέω is inherently a descriptive term for a physical action, its singular appearance in [[Acts 20:16]] carries significant theological weight within the narrative of Paul's ministry. Paul's decision to "sail past" Ephesus is not merely a logistical detail but reveals a profound sense of divine leading and missional urgency. It demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the broader strategic plan for the advancement of the gospel and his prioritization of reaching Jerusalem for Pentecost, a time when many Jewish pilgrims would be gathered, potentially offering a unique opportunity for evangelism or strengthening the nascent church. This act of bypassing a significant center of his previous, successful ministry illustrates Paul's willingness to set aside personal comfort or past connections in favor of the immediate divine directive and the most efficient stewardship of his time and resources for the sake of the Kingdom. It underscores the dynamic and often demanding nature of apostolic travel, where strategic discernment and obedience to the Spirit's leading superseded sentimental attachments or even the desire for further ministry in a familiar place. Paul's action serves as an example of prioritizing the ultimate goal of the mission over secondary, albeit good, engagements.
### Summary
G3896 παραπλέω (parapléō) precisely conveys the action of "sailing alongside" or "sailing by" a location without stopping. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Acts 20:16]] provides a critical insight into the strategic decision-making of the Apostle Paul. By choosing to "sail past" Ephesus, Paul demonstrated his focused urgency to reach Jerusalem for Pentecost, prioritizing the broader missional objectives over a return visit to a significant ministry hub. This specific verb underscores a deliberate act of bypassing, reflecting Paul's determined obedience and the Spirit's guiding hand in the dynamic progression of early Christian evangelism. Though simple in its definition, παραπλέω illuminates a moment of profound strategic discernment in the life of the apostle, revealing his dedication to the expeditious fulfillment of his divine commission.
TRV