ἀποπλέω

I sail away

Definition

The verb ἀποπλέω means 'to sail away' or 'to set sail from a place.' It specifically denotes the act of departing by sea from a specific point of origin, often implying a journey to another destination. In the New Testament, it is used consistently in the context of sea voyages, particularly within the narrative of Paul's missionary journeys in the Book of Acts. For example, in Acts 13:4, Barnabas and Saul are 'sent out' and 'sailed away' from Seleucia to Cyprus, marking the beginning of their first missionary journey.

Biblical Usage

ἀποπλέω is used exclusively in the Book of Acts (four times), always in narrative accounts of sea travel. It describes the departure of key figures, especially Paul and his companions, from one location to continue their ministry or travel to a new region. The contexts are the launch points of missionary endeavors (Acts 13:4, 14:26) and stages of Paul's journey to Jerusalem and Rome (Acts 20:15, 27:1). The usage pattern highlights the mobility and geographical scope of the early church's expansion.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'from, away from') and the verb πλέω (pleō, meaning 'to sail'). It is a compound verb that literally means 'to sail from.' The prefix ἀπό emphasizes the point of departure or separation. The root is related to other sailing terms like πλοῖον (ploion, 'ship').

Semantic Range

While primarily a travel term, ἀποπλέω is significant in the narrative of Acts as it marks pivotal transitions in the spread of the gospel. Each sailing away often precedes a new phase of missionary work, divine guidance, or the fulfillment of God's plan (e.g., Paul's journey to Rome in Acts 27:1). It underscores the theme of God-directed movement and the obedience of the apostles in carrying the message across geographical and cultural boundaries.

In the 1st-century Roman world, sea travel was the primary means of long-distance travel and commerce across the Mediterranean. Sailing away was a significant undertaking, involving dependence on seasonal winds, navigational skill, and facing considerable danger from storms. This context makes the repeated voyages in Acts demonstrations of courage and commitment. The term implies a deliberate, often planned, departure from a secure harbor into the open sea.

πλέω (pleō, G4126) — The simpler verb meaning 'to sail,' without the specific emphasis on departure from a point. ἀνάγω (anagō, G321) — Often means 'to put out to sea' or 'to set sail,' very similar in nautical context but with a nuance of 'leading up' from a harbor.

Word Details

Scripture References