### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prōra**, represented by `{{G4408}}`, refers to the **prow** or **forepart** of a vessel. It is a specific nautical term that appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage is confined to the dramatic account of the shipwreck in the book of Acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4408}}` marks two critical moments during the storm at sea. First, it is mentioned when the shipmen `{{G3492}}` attempt to flee the ship by pretending to secure it. They let down a boat into the sea "under colour as though they would have cast anchors out of the **foreship**" [[Acts 27:30]]. Later, as the ship runs aground, the **forepart** `{{G4408}}` strikes a place where two seas meet, becoming "stuck fast, and remained unmoveable," leading to the vessel's destruction [[Acts 27:41]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the maritime setting where `{{G4408}}` is found:
* `{{G4403}}` **prýmna** (hinder part, stern): This is the direct counterpart to the **foreship**, referring to the stern of a ship. It is mentioned in direct contrast to the **forepart**, which stuck fast while the **hinder part** was broken by the waves [[Acts 27:41]].
* `{{G4143}}` **ploîon** (vessel): This word for a ship provides the setting for the events. The sailors were attempting to flee from this **ship** [[Acts 27:30]], which ultimately ran aground.
* `{{G3492}}` **naútēs** (sailor, shipman): These are the seamen who interacted with the **foreship**, using it as part of a deceptive plan to abandon the vessel [[Acts 27:30]].
* `{{G45}}` **ánkyra** (anchor): An essential piece of naval equipment. The sailors' pretense of casting **anchors** from the **foreship** is central to the narrative of their attempted escape [[Acts 27:30]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4408}}` is rooted in the narrative details it provides, illustrating key themes from the account of the shipwreck.
* **Deception in Crisis:** The sailors use the **foreship** as a physical location for their pretext `{{G4392}}` of casting anchors. Their actions highlight a moment of human desperation and deceit in the face of imminent danger [[Acts 27:30]].
* **Point of Impact:** The **forepart** is described as the specific part of the ship that gets lodged and "stuck fast" `{{G2043}}`, rendering the vessel "unmoveable" `{{G761}}`. It represents the point of collision that seals the ship's fate [[Acts 27:41]].
* **Vulnerability and Destruction:** The narrative contrasts the stuck **forepart** `{{G4408}}` with the **hinder part** `{{G4403}}`, which was broken by the "violence of the waves" `{{G2949}}`. This imagery powerfully conveys the complete destruction of the ship and the helplessness of those aboard against the power of the sea.
### Summary
In summary, **prōra** `{{G4408}}` is more than just a nautical term; it is a key detail in one of the most vivid narratives of peril in the New Testament. Its use pinpoints the location of both human deception and the ultimate, violent impact that led to the shipwreck. Through this specific word, the account in Acts 27 brings the scene to life, emphasizing the themes of crisis, destruction, and the events that unfolded at the very front of the ship.
TRV