### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prýmna**, represented by `{{G4403}}`, refers to the **stern** or **hinder part** of a ship. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically denotes the rearmost section of a vessel, a location significant for both stability and action in maritime narratives.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G4403}}` provides critical details in two separate storm narratives. In one account, Jesus is found asleep on a pillow in the **hinder part of the ship** while his disciples panic [[Mark 4:38]]. In the story of Paul's shipwreck, sailors, `fearing` `{{G5399}}` they would run aground on rocks, cast four anchors from the **stern** [[Acts 27:29]]. Shortly after, the ship runs aground, and while the `forepart` `{{G4408}}` remains unmoveable, the **hinder part** `{{G4403}}` is `broken` `{{G3089}}` by the `violence` `{{G970}}` of the `waves` `{{G2949}}` [[Acts 27:41]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of `{{G4403}}`:
* `{{G4408}}` **prōra** (forepart): As the forward part of a vessel, this word stands in direct contrast to the stern. In the shipwreck narrative, the **forepart** stuck fast while the hinder part was destroyed [[Acts 27:41]].
* `{{G45}}` **ánkyra** (anchor): An essential tool for securing a ship. In a moment of crisis, sailors cast four **anchors** from the stern to prevent disaster [[Acts 27:29]].
* `{{G4344}}` **proskephálaion** (pillow): This word for a cushion is only used in connection with the stern, where Jesus was found resting during the storm [[Mark 4:38]].
* `{{G3491}}` **naûs** (ship): This word for a boat provides the overarching object to which the stern belongs. It is used when the **ship** runs aground, leading to the stern's destruction [[Acts 27:41]].
### Theological Significance
The contextual placement of `{{G4403}}` carries significant narrative weight.
* **A Place of Divine Rest:** The stern is portrayed as a place of peace for Jesus, who is found asleep there while a storm rages. His disciples approach him in this location, addressing him as `Master` `{{G1320}}` and questioning his lack of concern [[Mark 4:38]].
* **A Point of Human Action:** In contrast, the stern is the site of frantic human effort during Paul's shipwreck. It is from the **stern** that the sailors desperately deploy anchors, hoping to save themselves and the vessel [[Acts 27:29]].
* **A Locus of Vulnerability:** The narrative of the shipwreck highlights the stern as the point of failure. While the front of the ship holds fast, the **hinder part** is ultimately `broken` `{{G3089}}` by the power of the waves, leading to the ship's loss [[Acts 27:41]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4403}}` is more than just a nautical term. Though appearing only three times, **prýmna** consistently marks a location of immense consequence within a crisis at sea. It serves as the backdrop for demonstrating both the serene authority of Jesus at rest and the desperate fear of sailors in peril. The use of `{{G4403}}` illustrates how a specific part of a setting can symbolize peace, vulnerability, and a focal point for critical, life-or-death decisions.
TRV