παραπλέω

I sail past

Definition

The verb παραπλέω (parapleō) means to sail past, specifically to sail by or along a coast without stopping or landing at a place. It carries the nuance of intentional or necessary passage, often due to time constraints or a set itinerary. In its single New Testament occurrence in Acts 20:16, it describes Paul's decision to sail past Ephesus to reach Jerusalem more quickly. The word implies a direct, uninterrupted journey by sea, bypassing a potential port of call.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 20:16. It describes a specific travel decision during Paul's missionary journey. The context is Paul's urgent desire to reach Jerusalem by Pentecost, leading him to instruct his ship to sail past (παραπλέω) the significant city of Ephesus, rather than stopping there. This singular usage highlights a logistical choice within a narrative of purposeful travel.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition παρά (para), meaning 'beside, alongside, by,' and the verb πλέω (pleō), meaning 'I sail.' It is a compound verb literally meaning 'to sail alongside' or 'to sail past.' The root πλέω is common in Greek for sailing or floating, seen in other words like πλοῖον (ploion, 'ship'). The compound emphasizes motion along or near a coastline without making landfall.

Semantic Range

While not a theologically dense term, its use in Acts 20:16 provides insight into Paul's ministry priorities and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. His decision to bypass Ephesus, a major church center, underscores the sometimes difficult choices required in obedience to a divine timetable (reaching Jerusalem for Pentecost). It illustrates that strategic omission or 'passing by' can be part of God's sovereign plan for mission and travel, trusting other means (like later sending for the Ephesian elders in Acts 20:17) for pastoral care.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, sea travel was dictated by winds, seasons, and coastal landmarks. 'Sailing past' a port was a common nautical decision, often made to save time, avoid unfavorable conditions, or adhere to a tight schedule. For Paul, a seasoned traveler, this term reflects standard seafaring practice. The modern equivalent might be a traveler on a tight schedule choosing to drive past a city without taking the exit, despite its attractions or significance.

παρέρχομαι (parerchomai, G3928) — A more general term meaning 'to pass by,' used for travel by land or in metaphorical senses (e.g., Luke 18:37). παραπλέω is specifically nautical. ἀποπλέω (apopleō, G636) — Means 'to sail away from,' focusing on departure from a point, whereas παραπλέω focuses on motion past a point without departure from it.

Word Details

Scripture References