What is a rudder in the Bible?

In the Bible, a rudder is the steering mechanism of an ancient ship, a small but crucial piece of equipment that controls the vessel's direction. It is often used metaphorically to illustrate how a small thing can guide something much larger, as seen in James 3:4-5.

Where is a rudder mentioned in the Bible?

The rudder is mentioned directly in the New Testament in Acts 27:40, where sailors on Paul's storm-tossed ship cut away the anchors and loosened the rudder-bands to steer for the beach. It is also used in a famous analogy about the tongue in James 3:4-5.

Why is the rudder significant in the Bible?

The rudder holds symbolic significance, representing control, guidance, and the power of small things. James uses it to teach that just as a small rudder guides a large ship, the tongue, though small, guides the whole course of a person's life (James 3:4-5).

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EncyclopediaRudder; Rudder-bands

TheologyR

Rudder; Rudder-bands

Also known as:Bands of Rudder

Rudder; Rudder-bands rud'-er. See SHIPS AND BOATS,III , 2, (3).

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