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σκάφη (skaphē)

skaphē

lifeboat

G4627 · Greek · New Testament · 3 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
3 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The noun skaphē refers to a small, light boat or skiff, derived from a root meaning "to scoop out." This etymology highlights the vessel's construction: it is carved or hollowed from a single piece of wood, creating a simple, open hull. In the New Testament, this word appears exclusively in Acts, describing the emergency craft used during Paul’s shipwreck.

The term distinguishes these small boats from larger seagoing vessels. During the storm in Acts 27, the crew first secured the ship’s lifeboat (Acts 27:16) and later cut it loose to prevent prisoners from escaping (Acts 27:32). The word conveys a sense of fragility and utility, emphasizing a vessel designed for short, desperate trips rather than long voyages.

Its usage underscores the precariousness of the situation. By specifying skaphē rather than a general term for ship, the text paints a vivid picture of sailors relying on a small, hollowed-out craft to navigate turbulent waters. This detail adds concrete realism to the narrative, showing how even a simple, scooped-out boat becomes critical for survival.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The Greek word skaphē describes a small, hollowed-out boat, often translated as a lifeboat or skiff. In Acts 27, this fragile craft becomes the only hope for survival during Paul’s shipwreck. It reminds us that God can use even the most unlikely and simple means to preserve life when circumstances seem hopeless.

When the soldiers cut the ropes of the boat in Acts 27:32, they intended to let the prisoners drown or escape. Instead, this act of cruelty became part of God’s plan for their safety. The skaphē shows that our security does not rest in large ships or strong defenses, but in the One who holds all things together.

Whether you are facing a storm of uncertainty or a situation where help seems far away, remember that God is near. He cares for the smallest details of your life and provides exactly what is needed for each moment. Trust in His faithful care, even when the waters rise high around you.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • lifeboat2×
  • lifeboat,1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • σκάφης,1×
  • σκάφης1×
  • σκάφην1×

Key Verses

  • Acts 27:16
    Running under the lee of a small island called Clauda, we were able, with difficulty, to secure the boat.

    This verse introduces the skaphē as a critical resource secured with difficulty, highlighting its role in the immediate survival strategy during the storm.

  • Acts 27:30
    As the sailors were trying to flee out of the ship and had lowered the boat into the sea, pretending that they would lay out anchors from the bow,

    Here the sailors lower the boat under false pretenses, showing how the skaphē becomes a tool of deception before it is ultimately used for deliverance.

  • Acts 27:32
    Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the boat and let it fall off.

    The cutting away of the boat’s ropes ensures the prisoners cannot flee by sea, forcing them to rely entirely on staying with the main ship for safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does skaphē mean in the Bible?

Skaphē refers to a small, light boat or skiff, likely carved from a single piece of wood. It appears only in Acts 27 during Paul’s shipwreck narrative, distinguishing these emergency craft from larger seagoing vessels.

Why is the word skaphē significant in Acts 27?

It highlights the fragility of the survivors’ situation and the specific means God used for their preservation. The text specifies this small boat to show how even a simple, hollowed-out craft became critical for survival against overwhelming odds.

How is skaphē different from other words for boat?

While klibyos refers to a larger ship and ploion is a general term for vessel, skaphē specifically denotes a small, open, or scooped-out boat. This distinction emphasizes the precariousness of the emergency situation in Acts 27.

Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)

Acts 3 verses
Acts 27:16

Running under the lee of a small island called Clauda, we were able, with difficulty, to secure the boat.

Acts 27:30

As the sailors were trying to flee out of the ship and had lowered the boat into the sea, pretending that they would…

Acts 27:32

Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the boat and let it fall off.