And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.

ACTS 27:10KJV
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Acts 27:10 (KJV)

What does Acts 27:10 mean?

Acts 27:10 records Paul warning the people on the ship that he believes their voyage will result in harm and heavy loss, not just to the cargo and the ship itself, but also to their own lives. Paul is expressing serious concern about the dangers ahead if they continue their journey.

In this scene, Paul is speaking to the ship’s crew and other passengers as they prepare to set sail despite difficult weather. Paul’s warning is not just about property but also about the real risk to everyone’s safety. His statement shows both practical wisdom and care for those with him, setting the stage for the events that follow in the chapter.

The Greek behind Acts 27:10

  • The word "perceive" (θεωρέω, theōreō) is used here, which often means to observe or discern thoughtfully. Paul is not just guessing; he is making a careful judgment based on what he sees.
  • "Hurt" (ὕβρις, hubris) can mean violence, injury, or insult. In this context, it suggests not just physical damage but the idea of suffering or disaster.
  • "Damage" (ζημία, zēmia) refers to loss or harm, especially in a financial or material sense. Paul is warning that the consequences could be costly in many ways.
  • "Lives" (ψυχαί, psychai) is the usual Greek word for "souls" or "lives," emphasizing that actual people are at risk, not just things.

Why Acts 27:10 matters

  • This verse shows Paul’s role as a voice of reason and concern, even though he is a prisoner and not in charge of the ship, highlighting his leadership and care for others.
  • Paul’s warning is not based on supernatural revelation at this point, but on observation and experience, showing his practical wisdom.
  • The verse sets up the tension for the rest of the chapter, where Paul’s warning is ignored, leading to the dramatic events of the shipwreck and the fulfillment of his prediction.

Where else these words appear

“voyage” Greek G4144 · used in 3 verses

  • Acts 21:7 And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.
  • Acts 27:9 Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them,

“hurt” Greek G5196 · used in 3 verses

  • Acts 27:21 But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.
  • 2 Corinthians 12:10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

“damage” Greek G2209 · used in 4 verses

  • Acts 27:21 But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.
  • Philippians 3:7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.
  • Philippians 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

“perceive” Greek G2334 · used in 55 verses

  • Matthew 27:55 And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:
  • John 6:19 So when they had rowed about five and twenty or thirty furlongs, they see Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing nigh unto the ship: and they were afraid.
  • John 20:14 And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus.