### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G5295 (ὑποτρέχω, hypotréchō) is a compound word derived from the preposition ὑπό (hypó), meaning "under" or "beneath," and the verb τρέχω (tréchō), meaning "to run." Literally, it signifies "to run under." However, its semantic range is highly specialized in the New Testament, where it exclusively appears in a nautical context. In this specific usage, it denotes "to sail under the lee of" an island or coastline, or "to run past" a landmass, often for the purpose of finding shelter from strong winds or currents. The "running under" implies navigating in the shelter or shadow of the land, avoiding the full force of the open sea's elements. This specialized meaning is crucial for understanding its single biblical occurrence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb G5295 (hypotréchō) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 27:16]]**: "And running under the lee of a small island called Clauda, we were scarcely able to get the ship's boat under control."
The context here is Paul's perilous sea voyage to Rome, during which his ship encounters a violent storm (the "Euroclydon" or "Euraquilo" in some manuscripts). The ship, having already struggled near Crete, finds a momentary reprieve by sailing into the lee (the sheltered side) of the small island of Clauda (modern Gavdos), south of Crete. This maneuver allowed the crew a brief period of calmer waters to secure the ship's boat, which had been trailing and was in danger of being lost. Luke, as a meticulous historian, uses this precise nautical term to convey the specific action taken by the sailors to navigate the storm. The act of "running under the lee" was a vital tactical decision to gain temporary shelter and prevent further damage or loss, demonstrating the extreme conditions faced and the experienced seamanship employed.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding G5295 is enhanced by examining its constituent parts and related nautical terminology found in the same passage.
* **ὑπό (hypó)** `{{G5259}}`: As a preposition, ὑπό fundamentally conveys a sense of being "under" or "beneath," which perfectly aligns with the nautical meaning of sailing "under the lee" or "under the shelter" of an island.
* **τρέχω (tréchō)** `{{G5143}}`: The verb "to run" contributes the dynamic aspect of movement, emphasizing the ship's swift passage, even if struggling against the elements.
* Other nautical terms in [[Acts 27]] that illuminate the context include ἀνασύρω (to draw up), βοηθέω (to help), χειμασθῆναι (to be storm-tossed), σκάφη (skiff), βοηθείας (helps), καθέλκω (to lower), and σύρομαι (to drag). The precise use of hypotréchō alongside these terms underscores Luke's intimate knowledge of sea travel and his commitment to historical accuracy in his narrative. The concept of seeking shelter or navigating difficult circumstances is central to the passage, and hypotréchō describes a crucial action in that process.
### Theological Significance
While G5295 is primarily a technical nautical term, its singular appearance in [[Acts 27:16]] contributes significantly to the broader theological themes of the passage. The detailed description of the storm and the sailors' attempts to survive highlights God's providential care in the midst of extreme danger. The ability to "run under the lee" of Clauda, even if only for a brief respite, was a critical step in the chain of events that ultimately led to the preservation of all lives on board, as prophesied by Paul. This passage, with its precise details like hypotréchō, reinforces the reliability and historical accuracy of Luke's account, which in turn lends credibility to the divine interventions and messages conveyed through Paul. The perilous journey itself serves as a powerful metaphor for the Christian life, often fraught with storms and challenges, yet sustained by divine guidance and the promise of ultimate safe passage. The meticulous recording of such a technical detail underscores the reality of God's working through human circumstances and natural laws.
### Summary
G5295 (ὑποτρέχω, hypotréchō) literally means "to run under," but in its specialized biblical usage, it signifies "to sail under the lee of" an island or coastline for shelter. Its sole occurrence in [[Acts 27:16]] vividly describes the critical maneuver made by Paul's ship to gain momentary respite from a severe storm by sheltering near the island of Clauda. This precise nautical term, along with other detailed descriptions in Acts 27, underscores Luke's historical accuracy and contributes to the narrative's realism. Theologically, this detail points to God's meticulous providence, guiding and preserving His servants even through the most perilous natural events, reinforcing the trustworthiness of Scripture and the overarching theme of divine care in human experience.
TRV