### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term χῶρος (chōros, `{{G5566}}`) is a loanword, deriving from the Latin *caurus*, which specifically denotes the north-west wind. Its semantic range is exceptionally narrow, referring exclusively to this particular direction of wind. Unlike many biblical terms, χῶρος does not carry a broad metaphorical or theological meaning beyond its literal meteorological and geographical denotation. It describes a natural phenomenon, a specific directional wind, and by extension, a geographical orientation influenced by that wind.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word χῶρος (chōros, `{{G5566}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 27:12]]**: "And because the harbour was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised to put to sea from there, if somehow they might reach Phoenix, a harbour of Crete, looking toward the southwest and northwest." (βλέποντα κατὰ λίβα καὶ κατὰ χῶρον).
In this sole occurrence, χῶρος is used in conjunction with λίψ (lips, `{{G3016}}`), which denotes the southwest wind. Together, these terms precisely describe the orientation of the harbor at Phoenix on the island of Crete, indicating that it was open or faced towards both the southwest and northwest. This detail is crucial for understanding the navigational challenges and dangers faced by Paul and his companions during their perilous sea voyage to Rome. The mention of specific wind directions and harbor orientations underscores the meticulous historical and geographical accuracy of Luke's account, providing a realistic backdrop for the events that unfold. The word itself is purely descriptive, serving to establish the physical realities of the maritime setting.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its specific meaning, χῶρος (chōros, `{{G5566}}`) relates to several categories of words and concepts:
* **Wind Terms**: It is one of several specific terms for winds, alongside general terms like ἄνεμος (anemos, `{{G416}}`, "wind") and more tempestuous winds such as εὐροκλύδων (euroklydon, "Euraquilo" or "northeaster," the storm wind that later struck Paul's ship, mentioned in [[Acts 27:14]]). Other directional winds like λίψ (lips, `{{G3016}}`, "southwest wind") are directly associated.
* **Directional Terms**: It falls within the broader category of words indicating geographical directions (north, south, east, west), which are essential for navigation and geographical description in ancient texts.
* **Nautical and Travel Terminology**: As part of a detailed account of a sea voyage, χῶρος contributes to the rich vocabulary related to ships, harbors, sailing, and maritime travel. Its use highlights the practical knowledge of the author (Luke) regarding ancient seafaring.
* **Divine Providence**: While not a theological term itself, its presence contributes to the narrative where natural elements, including winds, play a role in the unfolding of God's sovereign plan, even amidst human decision-making and natural perils.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of χῶρος (chōros, `{{G5566}}`) is indirect, yet meaningful within the broader narrative of Acts. As a purely descriptive term for a specific wind direction, it does not carry intrinsic theological weight. However, its inclusion serves several important functions:
1. **Historicity and Accuracy**: The precise geographical and navigational details, including the orientation of the harbor by its exposure to specific winds, bolster the historical reliability and meticulous accuracy of Luke's account in Acts. This attention to detail underscores the trustworthiness of the biblical narrative as a whole.
2. **Divine Sovereignty Amidst Natural Forces**: The presence of such detailed natural descriptions sets the stage for demonstrating God's sovereignty over creation. While the north-west wind itself is a natural phenomenon, it is part of the world in which God's plan unfolds. The subsequent storm and shipwreck (not directly caused by the *chōros* wind, but by other forces) ultimately serve to highlight divine providence in preserving Paul and bringing him to Rome despite overwhelming natural obstacles.
3. **Human Vulnerability**: The description of the harbor's exposure to specific winds subtly emphasizes the vulnerability of ancient mariners to natural forces. This vulnerability ultimately points to the necessity of divine intervention and guidance, as seen in Paul's journey.
Thus, χῶρος, while a humble and technical term, contributes to the realism and verisimilitude of the biblical text, indirectly supporting the larger theological themes of divine control over creation and the providential guidance of God in human affairs.
### Summary
The Greek word χῶρος (chōros, `{{G5566}}`) is a loanword from Latin, specifically meaning "the north-west wind." It appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Acts 27:12]], where it is used in conjunction with λίψ (lips, `{{G3016}}`, "southwest wind") to precisely describe the orientation of the harbor at Phoenix in Crete. Its significance is primarily descriptive, contributing to the historical and geographical accuracy of Luke's account of Paul's voyage. Theologically, while the word itself is not imbued with spiritual meaning, its inclusion underscores the meticulous detail of the biblical narrative, thereby supporting its historicity. It also implicitly highlights the role of natural forces within the broader context of God's sovereign plan and the demonstration of divine providence amidst human vulnerability during the perilous journey.
TRV