### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pléō**, represented by `{{G4126}}`, means to pass in a vessel or to **sail**. Based on its root, it carries the idea of plunging through water. It is a specific term, appearing just **5 times** in **5 unique verses**, used exclusively to describe movement by ship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4126}}` documents literal sea voyages. It is used to describe Jesus and His disciples as they **sailed**, only to be met by a storm on the lake [[Luke 8:23]]. The term is prominent in the book of Acts, chronicling the travels of the apostles. Paul’s journeys are marked by this word, such as when he and his companions **sailed** into Syria and landed at Tyre [[Acts 21:3]] or when the centurion found a ship **sailing** into Italy and put them on board [[Acts 27:6]]. The act of sailing is also linked to divine deliverance, as an angel assured Paul that God had granted him the lives of all "them that **sail** with thee" [[Acts 27:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help build the complete picture of a sea journey:
* `{{G4143}}` **ploîon** (ship): This is the vessel used for sailing. In [[Acts 27:2]], Paul enters a **ship** `{{G4143}}` with the intention to **sail** `{{G4126}}`.
* `{{G321}}` **anágō**: This word is used for launching or setting sail. In [[Luke 8:22]], after Jesus and the disciples enter a ship, they **launched forth** `{{G321}}`. Similarly, in [[Acts 27:2]], they **launched** `{{G321}}` from Adramyttium.
* `{{G2609}}` **katágō** (to bring to land, touch): This term signifies the conclusion of a voyage. In a single narrative sequence, Paul's company **sailed** `{{G4126}}` into Syria and **landed** `{{G2609}}` at Tyre [[Acts 21:3]].
* `{{G670}}` **apophortízomai** (to unload): This describes an action taken after a ship has landed. At Tyre, the journey paused because the ship was to **unlade** `{{G670}}` her burden [[Acts 21:3]].
### Theological Significance
While a simple verb, the context of `{{G4126}}` gives it narrative weight. It is closely associated with the advancement of the gospel and the sovereign care of God.
* **Instrument of Mission:** Sailing is the method by which the apostolic mission expands. The intent to **sail** by the coasts of Asia [[Acts 27:2]] or the voyage toward Italy [[Acts 27:6]] are not casual trips but part of a divine commission.
* **Peril and Providence:** The journeys described by `{{G4126}}` are often dangerous, placing the passengers in jeopardy from storms [[Luke 8:23]]. This peril becomes the backdrop for demonstrating God's power and protection.
* **Divine Assurance:** The act of sailing is directly tied to God's promise. The assurance that all who **sail** with Paul would be saved highlights God's sovereignty over the natural world and His commitment to fulfilling His purposes through His servants [[Acts 27:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4126}}` is a precise action word for "to sail." Though its use is infrequent, it is essential to the travel narratives of the New Testament. It moves the story of Jesus and the apostles across literal bodies of water, setting the stage for demonstrations of faith, peril, and ultimately, the providential hand of God guiding the expansion of the early church.
TRV