### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sýrtis**, represented by `{{G4950}}`, refers to **quicksands** or a shoal formed by sand being drawn by waves. It is derived from the word σύρω, which relates to drawing or dragging. Appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the New Testament, its meaning is entirely defined by its specific, literal context in a nautical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4950}}` occurs in the account of Paul's perilous sea journey to Rome. Amidst a violent storm, the sailors feared being driven into the infamous **quicksands** off the north coast of Africa. The text describes their desperate measures to avoid this fate, including undergirding the ship and lowering the sail, highlighting the **quicksands** as a known and dreaded navigational hazard capable of destroying a vessel [[Acts 27:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this perilous event involves several related words:
* `{{G1601}}` **ekpíptō** (to fall): This word describes the action the sailors feared would happen, to **fall** into the quicksands [[Acts 27:17]]. Figuratively, it is used to describe falling from grace [[Galatians 5:4]].
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō** (to fear): The sailors were **fearing** lest they run aground [[Acts 27:17]]. This same word is used to describe both terror and the proper reverence for God [[Matthew 10:28]].
* `{{G4143}}` **ploîon** (ship): The entire event centers on the preservation of the **ship** and its crew from the storm and the quicksands [[Acts 27:17]]. This word is frequently used in accounts of Jesus and his disciples on the water [[Matthew 8:24]].
* `{{G996}}` **boḗtheia** (helps): In their fear, the sailors used **helps**, likely ropes or chains, to secure the vessel [[Acts 27:17]]. The term is also used in a spiritual sense, as when believers find grace to **help** in a time of need [[Hebrews 4:16]].
### Theological Significance
While not a theological term itself, the appearance of `{{G4950}}` carries significant contextual weight.
* **A Symbol of Ultimate Peril:** In the narrative, the **quicksands** represent a point of no return. It is the final, destructive end that the experienced sailors dread, prompting them to take every possible action to avoid it [[Acts 27:17]].
* **Object of Worldly Fear:** The fear of the **quicksands** is a tangible, physical fear for one's life. This stands in contrast to the biblical call to fear God above all earthly dangers [[Matthew 10:28]].
* **Catalyst for Human Effort:** The threat of falling into the **quicksands** is what drives the sailors to use **helps** `{{G996}}` and undergird the **ship** `{{G4143}}`. It illustrates how a great and imminent danger forces people to rely on their own skills and equipment to avert disaster [[Acts 27:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4950}}` is a highly specific term for **quicksands**. Its single appearance in scripture provides a vivid illustration of extreme physical danger. While its meaning is literal, the context of peril, fear, and human intervention in [[Acts 27:17]] gives the word its lasting significance as a picture of a dreaded fate that people will do anything to avoid.
TRV