Acts 21:7 (KJV)

What does Acts 21:7 mean?

Acts 21:7 describes how Paul and his companions completed their journey from Tyre to Ptolemais, greeted the local believers there, and stayed with them for one day. The verse highlights a brief stop in their travels, showing their connection with fellow Christians along the way.

Paul is the main speaker here, traveling with his companions as he continues his journey toward Jerusalem. The verse gives a concrete snapshot of their route, mentioning two ancient cities—Tyre (a coastal city in modern Lebanon) and Ptolemais (now called Acre or Akko in Israel). The act of greeting ("saluted") the believers shows the early Christian practice of fellowship and hospitality, even during short visits.

The Greek behind Acts 21:7

• The word "finished" (ἐξαντλήσαντες, transliterated as exantlēsantes) is from G1274 and often carries the sense of completing or bringing something to an end. Here, it emphasizes that Paul and his group had fully completed this segment of their journey.
• "Saluted" (ἀσπασάμενοι, transliterated as aspasamenoi) from G782 means more than just a casual hello; it often implies a warm, respectful greeting among fellow believers, highlighting the closeness of early Christian communities.
• "Abode" (ἐμείναμεν, transliterated as emeínamen) from G3306 means to stay or remain, indicating they spent some meaningful time with the believers, not just passing through quickly.

Why Acts 21:7 matters

• Acts 21:7 shows the importance of Christian fellowship and hospitality in the early church, even during brief encounters.
• The verse connects the travel narrative, helping readers follow Paul's journey step by step and understand the geography of his mission.
• By mentioning specific cities and actions, Acts 21:7 grounds the story in real places and relationships, making the account more vivid and relatable.