### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun σκάφη (skáphē), Strong's number `{{G4627}}`, derives from the verb σκάπτω (skáptō) `{{G4626}}`, meaning "to dig" or "to scoop out." Consequently, its core meaning refers to a vessel that has been "dug out" or "hollowed out." This typically denotes a small boat, a skiff, or a dinghy. It implies a craft of modest size, often used as a tender to a larger ship, for fishing, or for short journeys close to shore. The term emphasizes the practical, often simple, nature of the vessel, distinguishing it from larger, more substantial ships. Its semantic range is narrow, consistently pointing to such a small, functional boat.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word σκάφη (skáphē) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Acts 27:30]]: "And as the sailors were seeking to escape from the ship, and had lowered the skiff into the sea, on the pretext that they were going to lay out anchors from the bow..." This solitary occurrence is found within the dramatic narrative of Paul's shipwreck journey to Rome. The context is crucial: the ship carrying Paul and many others is caught in a violent storm, facing imminent destruction. The sailors, despairing of survival, attempt to abandon the ship under the guise of deploying anchors, using the σκάφη (skáphē) as their means of escape.
Paul, guided by divine revelation, perceives their deceit and warns the centurion and soldiers that if the sailors do not remain on board, the lives of the passengers cannot be saved. This intervention prevents the sailors from escaping in the small boat, thereby ensuring that their expertise remains available for the survival of all on the larger vessel. The σκάφη (skáphē) here is not merely a descriptive detail but a pivotal element in the narrative, representing the sailors' desperate attempt at self-preservation, which is ultimately thwarted by divine providence working through Paul's discernment. Its presence highlights the precariousness of the situation and the human instinct for survival.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verb σκάπτω (skáptō) `{{G4626}}`, from which σκάφη (skáphē) is derived. This etymological link underscores the "dug out" or "hollowed" nature of the boat, suggesting a simple, possibly primitive, construction.
Conceptually, σκάφη (skáphē) stands in contrast to πλοῖον (ploion) `{{G4143}}`, the more general and frequently used New Testament term for a "ship" or "boat" of larger size. In [[Acts 27]], the σκάφη (skáphē) is the small craft being lowered *from* the πλοῖον (ploion). This distinction is vital for understanding the desperate maneuver of the sailors. Other general terms for sea vessels, though not directly related by root, include ναῦς (naus) in classical Greek, which is less common in the New Testament.
The concept of "escape" or "abandonment" is intrinsically linked to σκάφη (skáphē) in its sole biblical appearance. It serves as a tool for flight, contrasting with the theme of "remaining" or "persevering" that Paul advocates for the safety of all on board.
### Theological Significance
While σκάφη (skáphē) itself does not carry intrinsic theological weight or symbolic meaning, its singular appearance in [[Acts 27:30]] contributes significantly to the theological themes present in the shipwreck narrative.
1. **Divine Providence amidst Human Action:** The σκάφη (skáphē) represents a human attempt to circumvent God's revealed plan for the preservation of all on board. Paul's intervention, preventing the sailors' escape in the small boat, underscores the truth that divine providence often works through human obedience and discernment. God had promised Paul that no life would be lost ([[Acts 27:24]]), and the thwarting of the sailors' plan in the σκάφη (skáphē) was a necessary step for that promise to be fulfilled.
2. **Leadership and Responsibility:** Paul's quick recognition of the sailors' intent and his decisive action to keep them on the main ship highlights his spiritual authority and practical wisdom. The σκάφη (skáphē) thus becomes a symbol of the temptation to abandon responsibility for the sake of personal safety, a temptation overcome by Paul's faith and leadership.
3. **Realism of the Narrative:** The inclusion of such a specific and practical detail as the σκάφη (skáphē) lends profound realism to Luke's account. It grounds the miraculous preservation in a tangible, perilous human experience, emphasizing that even amidst divine intervention, human actions, choices, and the realities of the natural world are integral to the unfolding of God's purposes.
### Summary
The Greek word σκάφη (skáphē) `{{G4627}}` refers to a small boat, a skiff, or a dinghy, derived from the concept of "digging" or "scooping out." Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Acts 27:30]] is highly significant within the narrative of Paul's shipwreck. Here, the σκάφη (skáphē) is the vessel by which the sailors attempt to abandon the main ship and its passengers, an act of self-preservation that Paul, by divine insight, prevents. Though a simple descriptive term, its presence critically contributes to the theological themes of divine providence working through human agency, the nature of faithful leadership in crisis, and the vivid realism of Luke's historical account. It serves as a tangible detail that underscores the precariousness of the situation and the ultimate triumph of God's will to preserve life.