### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Phoînix**, represented by `{{G5405}}`, refers to **Phenice**, a place in Crete. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its sole mention identifies it as a specific harbor sought out as a suitable place to spend the winter.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its only biblical appearance, **Phenice** `{{G5405}}` is the intended destination for a ship's crew. The haven where they were docked was considered "not commodious" `{{G428}}` for the season, so the "more part" advised `{{G1012}}` they depart and attempt to reach **Phenice** to winter there `{{G3914}}`. The location is described specifically as "an haven `{{G3040}}` of Crete `{{G2914}}`, and lieth toward the south west `{{G3047}}` and north west `{{G5566}}`" [[Acts 27:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding the decision to seek **Phenice**:
* `{{G2914}}` **Krḗtē** (Crete): "of uncertain derivation; Crete, an island in the Mediterranean". This word establishes the geographical setting for **Phenice**, identifying it as a location on this specific island [[Acts 27:12]].
* `{{G3040}}` **limḗn** (haven): "apparently a primary word; a harbor". This term is used to describe both the initial location and the desired destination of **Phenice**, highlighting the search for a suitable harbor [[Acts 27:12]].
* `{{G3914}}` **paracheimázō** (to winter): "to winter near, i.e. stay with over the rainy season". This verb defines the primary motivation for seeking **Phenice**, as the crew needed to find a safe place to "winter" [[Acts 27:12]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{G5405}}` is centered on decision-making and the search for safety.
* **A Desired Haven:** **Phenice** represents the goal of finding adequate shelter. The decision to sail for it was driven by the fact that the current harbor was "not commodious" `{{G428}}` for wintering [[Acts 27:12]].
* **Human Planning:** The choice to attempt to reach **Phenice** was the result of advice `{{G1012}}` from the "more part" of the crew, illustrating a moment of human counsel and logistical planning during a perilous journey [[Acts 27:12]].
* **A Strategic Location:** The specific description of the harbor as lying "toward the south west and north west" [[Acts 27:12]] indicates that **Phenice** was not just any port, but one believed to offer superior protection from winter weather.
### Summary
In summary, **Phoînix** `{{G5405}}` is a geographical place name whose importance is tied entirely to its single mention in scripture. It functions within the narrative of Acts as the object of a deliberate and calculated risk, a supposedly safer harbor that prompted the ship's crew to leave an unsuitable one. The word underscores the practical challenges and human decisions made during the journey.
TRV