Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the concept of shipwreck is both a literal and metaphorical theme, illustrating physical peril and spiritual disaster. The Bible contains several accounts and references to shipwrecks, which serve as powerful narratives and allegories for faith, perseverance, and divine intervention.Literal Shipwrecks One of the most notable accounts of a shipwreck in the Bible is found in the Book of Acts, detailing the Apostle Paul's journey to Rome. In Acts 27, Paul, a prisoner at the time, is being transported by ship when they encounter a violent storm. Despite Paul's warnings, the ship's crew decides to set sail from Crete, leading to a catastrophic shipwreck. The narrative describes the storm's ferocity and the crew's desperate attempts to save the ship: "When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the great storm continued to batter us, we finally gave up all hope of being saved." (Acts 27:20) Paul reassures the crew with a message of hope, revealing that an angel of God had assured him of their safety: "But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not a single one of you will be lost, only the ship will be destroyed." (Acts 27:22) Ultimately, all aboard are saved, fulfilling God's promise and demonstrating His providence and protection. Metaphorical Shipwrecks In addition to literal shipwrecks, the Bible uses the imagery of shipwreck to describe spiritual failure or the loss of faith. The Apostle Paul, in his pastoral letters, warns against the dangers of straying from the truth and the consequences of such actions. In 1 Timothy, Paul speaks of those who have rejected faith and a good conscience: "Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith." (1 Timothy 1:19) This metaphorical use of shipwreck underscores the importance of maintaining a steadfast faith and adhering to sound doctrine. It serves as a cautionary tale for believers to remain vigilant and anchored in their spiritual journey. Symbolism and Lessons The theme of shipwreck in the Bible is rich with symbolism. It represents the trials and tribulations that believers may face in their lives, both physically and spiritually. The accounts of shipwrecks highlight the necessity of faith, the importance of heeding divine guidance, and the assurance of God's presence even in the midst of chaos. The account of Paul's shipwreck, in particular, illustrates the power of faith and the fulfillment of God's promises. Despite the dire circumstances, Paul's unwavering trust in God's word leads to the salvation of all aboard. This narrative encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and to remain faithful, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. In summary, shipwrecks in the Bible serve as poignant reminders of the perils of life and the steadfastness required in faith. They call believers to rely on God's guidance and to remain anchored in His truth, ensuring that their spiritual journey remains on course. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The breaking in pieces, or shattering, of a ship or other vessel by being cast ashore or driven against rocks, shoals, etc., by the violence of the winds and waves.2. (n.) A ship wrecked or destroyed upon the water, or the parts of such a ship; wreckage. 3. (n.) Fig.: Destruction; ruin; irretrievable loss. 4. (v. t.) To destroy, as a ship at sea, by running ashore or on rocks or sandbanks, or by the force of wind and waves in a tempest. 5. (v. t.) To cause to experience shipwreck, as sailors or passengers. Hence, to cause to suffer some disaster or loss; to destroy or ruin, as if by shipwreck; to wreck; as, to shipwreck a business. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia VOYAGE AND SHIPWRECK OF PAULvoi'-aj, ship'-rek. PAUL, VOYAGE AND SHIPWRECK OF See PAUL, THE APOSTLE, V, 9; PHOENIX. Greek 3489. nauageo -- to suffer shipwreck ... to suffer shipwreck. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: nauageo Phonetic Spelling: (now-ag-eh'-o) Short Definition: I am shipwrecked, ruined Definition: (a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3489.htm - 6k Library The Shipwreck. The Voyage and Shipwreck The Shipwreck of Pilate Whether Penance is a Second Plank after Shipwreck? Paul's Shipwreck Psalm 107 Part 4 Deliverance from Storms and Shipwreck; Or, the ... Psalm 107:4. Fourth Part. LM Deliverance from Storms, and ... Whether all are Bound to Confession? 1 Timothy i. 18, 19 Against those who Say that Demons Govern Human Affairs, and who ... Thesaurus Shipwreck (3 Occurrences)... 5. (vt) To cause to experience shipwreck, as sailors or passengers. ... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. VOYAGE AND SHIPWRECK OF PAUL. voi'-aj, ship'-rek. ... /s/shipwreck.htm - 8k Wreck (1 Occurrence) Voyage (5 Occurrences) Melita (1 Occurrence) Shipwrecked (2 Occurrences) Hymenaeus (2 Occurrences) Wind (180 Occurrences) Alexander (5 Occurrences) Suffered (88 Occurrences) Boats (11 Occurrences) Resources Who were Hymenaeus and Alexander, and what does it mean that their faith was shipwrecked? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should be our response when a Christian leader renounces the faith and falls away? | GotQuestions.org What is a love feast? | GotQuestions.org Shipwreck: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Shipwreck (3 Occurrences)2 Corinthians 11:25 1 Timothy 1:19 Ezekiel 27:27 Subtopics Related Terms |