σκευή

tackle, fittings

Definition

The Greek word σκευή (skeuē) primarily means 'equipment,' 'gear,' or 'fittings.' In its most specific nautical sense, it refers to the tackle, rigging, or gear of a ship, as seen in its sole New Testament occurrence in Acts 27:19. More broadly in ancient Greek literature, it could denote household goods, utensils, or implements. The term encompasses the functional apparatus or paraphernalia necessary for a specific task or operation, whether maritime, domestic, or otherwise.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 27:19. The context is Paul's perilous sea voyage to Rome. Facing a severe storm, the sailors 'threw the ship's tackle (τὴν σκευὴν τοῦ πλοίου) overboard with their own hands.' Here, σκευή refers specifically to the ship's gear or equipment, likely including non-essential rigging, spare sails, or other heavy items, which were jettisoned in a desperate attempt to lighten the vessel and prevent it from sinking.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek root related to σκεῦος (skeuos, G4632), meaning 'vessel,' 'implement,' or 'object.' σκευή is the abstract noun form, denoting the collective state or quality of being equipment or gear. It essentially means 'that which consists of vessels/tools.' The meaning development is from a specific 'vessel' to a collection of such items forming functional equipment.

Semantic Range

In the 1st-century Mediterranean world, a ship's σκευή represented vital and often valuable assets. Jettisoning it, as in Acts 27:19, was a drastic, last-resort measure indicating extreme danger. It signified the abandonment of the very tools needed to sail the ship, leaving it at the mercy of the storm. This action highlights the severity of the situation Paul faced and the total desperation of the seasoned crew, setting the stage for divine intervention.

σκεῦος (skeuos, G4632) — A single vessel, implement, or object, whereas σκευή is the collective equipment. σῶμα (sōma, G4983) — Can mean 'body' but in a nautical context (Acts 27:22) refers to the ship's hull or cargo, distinct from its rigging and gear (σκευή).

Word Details

Scripture References