πέλαγος

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word pélagos, represented by G3989, refers to the deep or open sea. It appears 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible. While infrequent, its usage points to the main or deepest part of the sea, distinguishing it from a more general term for the sea.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In its biblical occurrences, G3989 is used both literally and figuratively. In the book of Acts, it is used geographically to describe sailing across the open sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia Acts 27:5. In Matthew, it takes on a more metaphorical weight, describing the depth of the sea as the place where one would be drowned with a millstone hanged about his neck—a severe consequence for causing a believer to offend Matthew 18:6.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words clarify the context in which G3989 is used:

• G2281 thálassa: A general term for the sea. In the warning in Matthew, pélagos is used to specify the "depth" of the thálassa, emphasizing a place of no escape Matthew 18:6.
• G2670 katapontízō: This word means to plunge down, i.e. submerge. It describes the action of being "drowned" or made to sink into the pélagos Matthew 18:6.
• G4624 skandalízō: Meaning to entrap, i.e. trip up, this is the verb for the offense that merits the punishment of being drowned in the pélagos Matthew 18:6.

Theological Significance

The theological significance of G3989 is concentrated in its use in the Gospel of Matthew. It serves to illustrate the gravity of sin against God's faithful people.

• Severity of Judgment: The image of being drowned in the depth of the sea is a powerful illustration of the severe judgment reserved for those who cause one of the "little ones" to stumble in their faith Matthew 18:6.
• Irrevocable Consequence: Unlike a general reference to water, the deep or open sea implies a finality and an inescapable fate. The punishment is portrayed as absolute.
• Divine Protection: The use of such a stark image underscores the high value God places on His followers and serves as a solemn warning about the consequences of harming them.

Summary

In summary, G3989 is a precise term for the deep or open sea. Though it appears only twice, its use in Matthew's Gospel gives it significant theological weight, representing a place of final and severe judgment. Its other use in Acts provides a straightforward geographical description, showing its dual utility in describing both a physical location and a powerful, figurative concept.