Acts 21:15
And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.
Original Language Analysis
Μετὰ
after
G3326
Μετὰ
after
Strong's:
G3326
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)
τὰς
G3588
τὰς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἡμέρας
days
G2250
ἡμέρας
days
Strong's:
G2250
Word #:
4 of 9
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
ταύτας
G3778
ταύτας
Strong's:
G3778
Word #:
5 of 9
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
Historical Context
The 65-mile journey from Caesarea to Jerusalem typically took 2-3 days on foot. Travelers would gather provisions and arrange lodging along the way. This final leg of Paul's third missionary journey would culminate in his arrest and eventual journey to Rome as a prisoner.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'carriages' (preparations and plans) do you need to take up to follow through on God's clear direction despite others' objections?
- How does Paul's determination encourage you when obedience to God's calling leads toward suffering rather than safety?
Analysis & Commentary
We took up our carriages (ἀποσκευάζω, aposkeuázō)—The Greek refers to gathering baggage and making preparations for the journey, not modern vehicles. This practical detail shows the final preparations before the decisive journey to Jerusalem. The determination to proceed 'after those days' of intense pleading (v. 12-14) reveals Paul's settled conviction that God's will mattered more than personal safety. His company's willing accompaniment demonstrated their submission to God's purposes even when confused or fearful about the outcome.