### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term G4534 (Σαλμώνη, Salmṓnē) refers to a specific geographical location: Salmone, a promontory forming the easternmost point of the island of Crete. Its definition suggests a possible etymological connection to Σαλαμίς (Salamis), though this does not alter its primary meaning as a fixed geographical landmark. As a proper noun, its semantic range is singularly focused on identifying this particular point on the Cretan coast. It carries no inherent abstract or conceptual meaning beyond its designation as a physical place.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G4534 appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 27:7]]**: "When we had sailed slowly for a number of days and had difficulty arriving at Cnidus, because the wind was against us, we sailed under the shelter of Crete, off Salmone."
This verse describes a critical juncture in Paul's perilous sea voyage to Rome. The ship, encountering strong head-winds after departing from Myra, found it difficult to reach Cnidus (`{{G2837}}`). To mitigate the adverse conditions, the mariners opted to sail "under the shelter of Crete," meaning they navigated on the leeward side of the island to gain protection from the prevailing winds. Salmone marks the specific point off the eastern tip of Crete where they began this maneuver. The mention of Salmone grounds the narrative in precise geographical reality, underscoring the practical challenges and strategic decisions involved in ancient seafaring. It highlights the difficult circumstances faced by Paul and his companions, emphasizing the providential guidance that would ultimately bring them safely to their destination, albeit through further trials.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that G4534 is a geographical proper noun, related words are primarily those that share its narrative context or broader geographical scope:
* **Geographical Terms**: `{{G2914}}` (Κρήτη, Crete), the island itself, and `{{G2837}}` (Κνίδος, Cnidus), another port mentioned in the same verse, are directly related as locations within the same journey.
* **Seafaring Terminology**: Words describing the journey, such as `{{G4144}}` (πλοῦς, a voyage), `{{G417}}` (ἄνεμος, wind), and `{{G4392}}` (πνέω, to blow), are contextually linked, illustrating the maritime environment in which Salmone is situated.
* **Divine Providence**: While not a direct lexical link, the entire account of Paul's journey in Acts 27-28 implicitly connects to the concept of God's sovereign guidance and protection (e.g., `{{G4296}}` προνοέω, to provide for), even amidst natural obstacles and human peril.
### Theological Significance
As a mere geographical detail, Salmone possesses no intrinsic theological significance. Its importance is entirely derived from its role within the larger narrative of Paul's journey to Rome, as recorded in Acts.
1. **Historical Veracity**: The precise mention of Salmone, along with other navigational details, contributes to the historical reliability and verisimilitude of the book of Acts. It demonstrates Luke's meticulous attention to detail, grounding the biblical account in concrete, verifiable reality.
2. **Illustrating Divine Providence**: While Salmone is a natural landmark, its mention within a journey fraught with peril underscores the theme of divine providence. The decision to sail "under the shelter of Crete, off Salmone" was a human strategic move to mitigate danger. Yet, within the broader narrative, this human effort is enveloped by God's overarching plan to bring Paul to Rome (cf. [[Acts 23:11]]). Thus, Salmone becomes a silent witness to the challenges overcome by God's grace and guidance.
3. **Context for Missionary Hardship**: The difficult sailing conditions near Salmone illustrate the physical hardships and dangers faced by early Christian missionaries. Their commitment to spreading the Gospel often placed them in vulnerable situations, highlighting their reliance on God's power rather than their own strength or favorable circumstances.
### Summary
G4534 (Σαλμώνη, Salmṓnē) designates Salmone, the easternmost promontory of Crete. Its single biblical occurrence in [[Acts 27:7]] places it within the narrative of Paul's arduous sea voyage to Rome. The mention of Salmone serves primarily as a precise geographical marker, authenticating the historical account of the journey and illustrating the practical challenges of ancient seafaring. Theologically, while devoid of inherent meaning, its inclusion contributes to the historical veracity of Acts and subtly underscores the theme of divine providence guiding Paul through perilous circumstances, demonstrating God's sovereign hand in the expansion of the early Church despite significant obstacles.
TRV