### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chōros**, represented by `{{G5566}}`, is a term of Latin origin referring to **the north-west wind**. It is a highly specific word, appearing just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its sole function is to provide a precise geographical or navigational direction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G5566}}` is found in the narrative of Paul's perilous journey to Rome. In [[Acts 27:12]], the crew sought a safe place to spend the winter because their current **haven** `{{G3040}}` was **not commodious** `{{G428}}`. They hoped to reach **Phenice** `{{G5405}}`, a harbor on the island of **Crete** `{{G2914}}`, which was described as facing "toward the south west and **north west**" [[Acts 27:12]]. This term provides a specific detail about the harbor's orientation, highlighting the practical considerations of first-century sea travel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context of this nautical description:
* `{{G3047}}` **líps** (the south(- west) wind): This word is used in direct conjunction with `{{G5566}}` to describe the dual orientation of the harbor at Phenice, indicating it was open to both the southwest and northwest winds [[Acts 27:12]].
* `{{G3040}}` **limḗn** (a harbor): This term identifies the type of location being described. The suitability of the **haven** was the central issue for the sailors, leading to the description involving `{{G5566}}` [[Acts 27:12]].
* `{{G2914}}` **Krḗtē** (Crete, an island in the Mediterranean): This is the geographical setting for the event, grounding the narrative in a real-world location. The harbor of Phenice was located on **Crete** [[Acts 27:12]].
* `{{G3914}}` **paracheimázō** (to winter near): This word explains the sailors' motivation. Their goal was **to winter** safely, and the orientation of the harbor was critical to that decision [[Acts 27:12]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G5566}}` is not theological but historical and descriptive. Its value lies in the precision it adds to the biblical account.
* **Narrative Detail:** The use of a specific term for "north west" contributes to the vivid and detailed nature of the travelogue in the book of Acts.
* **Historical Authenticity:** This specific directional term, used alongside others, demonstrates an eyewitness familiarity with sailing and geography in the Mediterranean, reinforcing the credibility of the narrative.
* **Practical Context:** The word is part of a practical assessment of a harbor's safety. The decision to proceed was based on the physical orientation of the port, a decision that ultimately led to shipwreck [[Acts 27:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5566}}` **chōros** is a technical term used once to give a precise directional detail. While it does not carry symbolic or theological weight, its presence in the text is significant. It serves as a small but important brushstroke in the detailed painting of Paul's journey, underscoring the historical accuracy and real-world setting of the biblical narrative in Acts.
TRV