Acts 27:18 (KJV)

What does Acts 27:18 mean?

Acts 27:18 describes how Paul and those with him were caught in a violent storm at sea, and on the second day, the crew began throwing cargo overboard to lighten the ship. This verse shows the severity of the storm and the desperate actions taken to try to survive.

Paul is traveling as a prisoner to Rome, and Luke, the author, is with him. The ship is being battered by a fierce storm, and the crew’s decision to lighten the ship by throwing things overboard shows how dangerous the situation has become. This moment sets the stage for the ongoing struggle and the sense of urgency and fear among everyone on board.

The Greek behind Acts 27:18

• The word for "exceedingly" is λίαν (lian, G4971), which means "very much" or "greatly." This emphasizes just how severe and overwhelming the storm was.
• The word for "tempest" is χειμών (cheimōn, G5492), which refers to a violent storm or bad weather, not just ordinary wind or rain. It highlights the life-threatening nature of what they faced.
• The word for "ship" is πλοῖον (ploion, G4160), a general term for a vessel, reminding us this was a typical cargo ship, not a warship or passenger vessel.

Why Acts 27:18 matters

• This verse helps the reader understand the real danger and fear experienced by Paul and everyone on the ship, making the story more vivid and relatable.
• It shows the practical steps taken in ancient times to survive a storm at sea, giving historical context to the narrative.
• The verse sets up the dramatic events that follow, emphasizing the helplessness of human effort against nature and preparing the reader for the intervention and message Paul will later deliver.