Acts 21:6
And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἀσπασάμενοι
when we had taken our leave
G782
ἀσπασάμενοι
when we had taken our leave
Strong's:
G782
Word #:
2 of 13
to enfold in the arms, i.e., (by implication) to salute, (figuratively) to welcome
εἰς
G1519
εἰς
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
5 of 13
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐκεῖνοι
they
G1565
ἐκεῖνοι
they
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
8 of 13
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
ὑπέστρεψαν
again
G5290
ὑπέστρεψαν
again
Strong's:
G5290
Word #:
10 of 13
to turn under (behind), i.e., to return (literally or figuratively)
εἰς
G1519
εἰς
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
11 of 13
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
Historical Context
Maritime travel in the first century involved significant risk and uncertainty. Farewells like this carried weight because shipwreck, piracy, or persecution could mean permanent separation. The Tyrian believers' return 'home' suggests stable Christian community established in their city.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you view the calling to 'stay and sustain' versus the calling to 'go and pioneer' in kingdom work?
- What does this passage teach about maintaining meaningful Christian fellowship despite geographic separation?
Analysis & Commentary
When we had taken our leave (ἀσπάζομαι, aspázomai)—The Greek conveys affectionate farewell between believers who may never meet again on earth. The pattern of 'we took ship; and they returned home again' captures the bittersweet reality of Christian mission—some are called to go, others to stay and sustain home communities. Both callings serve God's kingdom purposes, neither superior to the other. This verse exemplifies the mutual love and painful partings that characterized early church relationships.