νησίον (nēsion)
nēsion
small island
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun nēsion refers specifically to a small island or islet. It functions as a diminutive form of the standard word for island, indicating that the landmass in question is notably modest in size rather than a major territory.
This precise term appears only once in the New Testament, in Acts 27:16. The context describes Paul’s journey to Rome by ship, where the vessel runs aground near a small island called Cauda. The use of this specific word highlights the geographical reality of the location during that critical moment of the narrative.
While the general term for island is more common in Scripture, the choice here reflects the author’s attention to detail regarding the physical setting. It distinguishes the tiny refuge from larger landmasses, grounding the historical account in a tangible, specific place.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word nēsion describes a tiny island, specifically Cauda in Acts 27:16. It is a diminutive form, emphasizing how small and modest this refuge was compared to larger landmasses. Luke uses this precise term to ground the narrative in a tangible reality.
Paul’s ship ran aground near this small island during a violent storm. The specific geography matters because it provided a narrow lee where they could secure the boat with difficulty. This detail shows God’s care in the smallest details of our trials.
When life feels like a storm, remember that God provides refuge even in the smallest places. You do not need a grand solution; you just need to hold on to what is available. His presence is enough, no matter how small the island seems.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- An Island1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- νησίον1×
Key Verses
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Acts 27:16
Running under the lee of a small island called Clauda, we were able, with difficulty, to secure the boat.
This verse uses nēsion to describe Cauda, highlighting that the storm survivors found their only chance of safety on a notably small and modest landmass.