### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun σύρτις (sýrtis), Strong's number `{{G4950}}`, denotes a "shoal" or "quicksands." Its etymology traces to the verb σύρω (sýrō) `{{G4951}}`, meaning "to draw" or "to drag." This derivation is highly illustrative, as it describes the nature of these geographical formations: sand and sediment drawn and accumulated by the relentless action of waves and currents, forming treacherous underwater banks. Historically, σύρτις refers specifically to the two infamous gulfs on the northern coast of Africa, the Syrtis Major (modern Gulf of Sidra) and Syrtis Minor (modern Gulf of Gabès). These regions were notorious in antiquity for their shifting sands, shallow waters, and unpredictable currents, posing grave dangers to ancient mariners. The term thus inherently carries connotations of peril, hidden danger, and the potential for shipwreck and destruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term σύρτις (sýrtis) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Acts 27:17]]. This occurrence is found within the narrative of Paul's perilous sea voyage to Rome. After departing from Fair Havens, the ship carrying Paul and his companions encounters a violent northeasterly gale, the "Euroclydon." The sailors, desperate to avoid catastrophe, take extreme measures: "and when they had taken it on board, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and fearing lest they should run aground on the Syrtis, they lowered the gear, and thus they were driven along." The fear of being driven onto the Syrtis highlights the extreme danger these quicksands represented. For an ancient ship, being driven onto such a shoal meant almost certain destruction, as the vessel would be grounded, broken apart by the waves, or swallowed by the shifting sands. The sailors' actions—undergirding the ship (passing ropes around the hull to prevent it from breaking apart) and lowering the sail/gear—demonstrate their profound apprehension regarding this specific geographical threat, underscoring the severity of the storm and the immediate, life-threatening peril.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for σύρτις (sýrtis) is its root verb, σύρω (sýrō) `{{G4951}}`, "to draw, drag." This etymological link emphasizes the dynamic, ever-changing nature of the quicksands, formed by the drawing action of the sea. Conceptually, σύρτις belongs to a semantic field of words describing maritime hazards and natural forces beyond human control. This includes terms such as θύελλα (thýella) `{{G2362}}` (tempest), κύμα (kýma) `{{G2949}}` (wave), and χειμών (cheimōn) `{{G5494}}` (winter storm, tempest). The fear of the Syrtis also evokes the broader biblical theme of human vulnerability in the face of overwhelming natural forces, often contrasted with divine sovereignty and protection. The act of "undergirding the ship" (βοηθείαις ἐχρῶντο, ὑποζωννύντες τὸ πλοῖον) further illustrates human efforts to mitigate danger, though ultimately, their safety depended on divine intervention.
### Theological Significance
While σύρτις (sýrtis) is a geographical term, its singular appearance in [[Acts 27:17]] carries significant theological weight within the broader narrative of Paul's journey. It functions as a concrete representation of an ultimate, unavoidable peril. The sailors' terror of being driven onto the Syrtis symbolizes the profound, existential threat that often confronts God's people. In this context, the quicksands represent not merely a physical danger but a symbol of impending doom from which there appears to be no escape through human means.
However, the account in Acts 27 is also a powerful testimony to divine providence. Despite the dire situation and the very real threat of the Syrtis, God assures Paul that no life will be lost ([[Acts 27:22-25]]). Thus, the Syrtis, a place of certain destruction, becomes a backdrop against which God's faithfulness and sovereign control over creation are dramatically demonstrated. It underscores the biblical truth that even in the face of the most formidable and inescapable dangers, God's purposes for His servants will prevail. The fear of the Syrtis contrasts sharply with the divine promise of safety, highlighting the triumph of faith and divine intervention over natural catastrophe.
### Summary
The Greek word σύρτις (sýrtis) `{{G4950}}` denotes a "shoal" or "quicksands," specifically referring to the treacherous regions off the North African coast, notorious for their shifting sands and danger to ancient shipping. Derived from σύρω (sýrō) `{{G4951}}` ("to draw"), it vividly depicts the dynamic, perilous nature of these formations. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Acts 27:17]] places it as a grave, immediate threat during Paul's shipwreck narrative, symbolizing the extreme peril faced by the mariners. The fear of being driven onto the Syrtis underscores the vulnerability of human endeavors against overwhelming natural forces. Theologically, σύρτις serves as a powerful symbol of ultimate, unavoidable destruction, yet it also functions as a dramatic backdrop against which the unwavering divine providence and protection over God's servants are profoundly demonstrated, even amidst the most dire circumstances.
TRV