### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ploiárion**, represented by `{{G4142}}`, refers to a **boat, little (small) ship**. It appears 6 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. As a presumed derivative of `{{G4143}}` ploîon (ship), it specifically denotes a smaller vessel, often used for transport and ministry on the sea.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4142}}` appears in key moments of Jesus' ministry. It is the **small ship** Jesus requested should wait on him because of the pressing **multitude** `{{G3793}}` [[Mark 3:9]]. Its presence is noted by the people who saw that the **disciples** `{{G3101}}` had entered the only **boat** `{{G4142}}` available and gone away alone, setting the scene for a subsequent miracle [[John 6:22]]. Following the resurrection, the disciples came ashore in a **little ship** `{{G4142}}`, dragging a net full of fish [[John 21:8]], connecting the vessel to both their livelihood and divine encounters.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the function and setting of the **boat**:
* `{{G4143}}` **ploîon** (a sailer, i.e. vessel): This is the general term for a ship, from which `{{G4142}}` is derived. In [[Mark 4:36]], Jesus is in the **ship** `{{G4143}}` while other **little ships** `{{G4142}}` accompany him.
* `{{G1684}}` **embaínō** (to walk on, i.e. embark): This verb describes the act of boarding a vessel. The crowd noted there was only one boat, the one whereinto his **disciples** `{{G3101}}` **were entered** `{{G1684}}` [[John 6:22]].
* `{{G3793}}` **óchlos** (a throng): The **boat** `{{G4142}}` is often used to create distance from large crowds. Jesus specifically requested one because of the **multitude** `{{G3793}}`, so they would not **throng** `{{G2346}}` him [[Mark 3:9]].
* `{{G4951}}` **sýrō** (to trail): This word describes the action associated with the boat in a miraculous context, where the disciples are **dragging** `{{G4951}}` the net full of **fishes** `{{G2486}}` from their **little ship** `{{G4142}}` [[John 21:8]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4142}}` lies in its role as a practical instrument within the Gospels.
* **A Tool for Ministry:** The **small ship** `{{G4142}}` provides a mobile platform for Jesus, allowing him to manage the eager crowds and continue his work without being overwhelmed [[Mark 3:9]].
* **Setting for Miracles:** The departure of the disciples in a lone **boat** `{{G4142}}` becomes a crucial narrative detail that emphasizes the supernatural nature of Jesus walking on water to join them [[John 6:22]].
* **Context for Livelihood and Discipleship:** The **little ship** `{{G4142}}` is central to the disciples' identity as fishermen and serves as the backdrop where they witness Christ’s provision and power, such as the miraculous catch of fish [[John 21:8]].
### Summary
In summary, **ploiárion** `{{G4142}}` is a specific term for a small boat that plays a vital, functional role in the Gospel accounts. Although it appears infrequently, it is consistently positioned at the intersection of Jesus’ public ministry, his private instruction of the disciples, and his miraculous acts. This simple vessel becomes an important stage for revealing divine authority and purpose.
TRV