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Φοῖνιξ (Phoinix)

Phoinix

Phoenix

G5405 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The noun phoinix refers to Phoenix, a harbor located on the southern coast of the island of Crete. The name itself likely derives from the word for "palm tree," reflecting the region's landscape or perhaps an earlier Phoenician settlement, though the primary biblical usage is strictly geographical.

This place appears only once in the New Testament, in Acts 27:12. During Paul’s journey to Rome as a prisoner, the ship’s crew sought shelter at this harbor after leaving Fair Havens. The text describes it as a suitable place to winter, highlighting its practical role in the narrative of Paul’s voyage rather than any theological significance.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

When reading Acts 27, we see Paul as a prisoner on a ship caught in difficult circumstances. The crew wanted to move from Fair Havens to Phoenix, hoping for better shelter during winter. This small detail shows how God’s providence works through practical decisions and human planning, even when the traveler has no control over his own fate.

For your faith, this reminds us that God is present in the mundane details of life. Whether you are facing a storm or simply making travel plans, He guides your steps. The journey to Rome was part of a larger divine purpose, and every mile mattered. Trust that He is with you in both the calm and the chaos.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Phoenix1×

Forms in the text

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

  • Φοίνικα1×

Key Verses

  • Acts 27:12
    Because the haven was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised going to sea from there, if by any means they could reach Phoenix and winter there, which is a port of Crete, looking southwest and northwest.

    This verse identifies Phoenix as the specific harbor on Crete where the ship’s crew hoped to spend the winter, highlighting the practical navigation challenges faced during Paul's voyage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Phoenix mean in Acts 27?

In this context, Phoenix is not the mythical bird but a real harbor on the southern coast of Crete. The name likely relates to palm trees or Phoenician settlers, serving as a geographical landmark for sailors.

Why did Paul want to go to Phoenix?

The crew and passengers sought Phoenix because Fair Havens was not suitable for wintering. They hoped the harbor’s orientation would offer better protection from storms during the harsh season.

Is Phoenix mentioned anywhere else in the Bible?

No, this is the only occurrence of the word in Scripture. It appears solely to describe the location where Paul and the prisoners intended to spend the winter before continuing to Rome.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)