παραχειμασία

wintering

Definition

Παραχειμασία refers specifically to the act of spending the winter in a place, or the condition of wintering. In the New Testament, it describes a harbor or location suitable for a ship to remain safely during the dangerous winter months when Mediterranean sailing was typically suspended. This term carries the practical sense of finding shelter and pausing a journey due to seasonal necessity. Its sole biblical use is in Acts 27:12, where it describes the harbor of Phoenix as a place for the ship carrying Paul to winter.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 27:12. It appears in the narrative of Paul's perilous sea voyage to Rome, where the sailors and centurion debate whether the harbor of Phoenix is suitable for 'παραχειμασία'—for spending the winter. Its usage is entirely practical and geographical, describing a logistical decision in a travel narrative.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition παρά (para), meaning 'beside' or 'alongside,' combined with a noun form related to χειμών (cheimōn, G5494), meaning 'winter' or 'storm.' Thus, it literally means 'a wintering alongside,' conveying the idea of staying beside or in a place for the winter season. It is a compound noun built for a specific, seasonal circumstance.

Semantic Range

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, sea travel from approximately November to March was considered extremely hazardous due to storms and poor visibility. The term 'παραχειμασία' reflects this critical seasonal pause in maritime activity. Finding a safe harbor for wintering was a major logistical and safety concern for sailors, merchants, and travelers, as attempting a winter voyage could lead to shipwreck and loss of life, as nearly happens in Acts 27.

χειμών (cheimōn, G5494) — The primary word for 'winter' or a 'storm,' whereas παραχειμασία specifies the act or place of wintering.

Word Details

Scripture References