Acts 27:2
And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.
Original Language Analysis
ἐπιβάντες
entering
G1910
ἐπιβάντες
entering
Strong's:
G1910
Word #:
1 of 18
to walk upon, i.e., mount, ascend, embark, arrive
μέλλοντες
meaning
G3195
μέλλοντες
meaning
Strong's:
G3195
Word #:
5 of 18
to intend, i.e., be about to be, do, or suffer something (of persons or things, especially events; in the sense of purpose, duty, necessity, probabili
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
κατὰ
by
G2596
κατὰ
by
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
8 of 18
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Ἀσίαν
of Asia
G773
Ἀσίαν
of Asia
Strong's:
G773
Word #:
10 of 18
asia, i.e., asia minor, or (usually) only its western shore
τόπους
the coasts
G5117
τόπους
the coasts
Strong's:
G5117
Word #:
11 of 18
a spot (general in space, but limited by occupancy; whereas g5561 is a large but participle locality), i.e., location (as a position, home, tract, etc
ἀνήχθημεν
we launched
G321
ἀνήχθημεν
we launched
Strong's:
G321
Word #:
12 of 18
to lead up; by extension to bring out; specially, to sail away
σὺν
with
G4862
σὺν
with
Strong's:
G4862
Word #:
14 of 18
with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi
Historical Context
Aristarchus of Thessalonica appears in Acts 19:29, 20:4, 27:2, Colossians 4:10, and Philemon 24—one of Paul's most enduring companions. Thessalonica was Macedonia's capital, a major Roman city and port. The ship from Adramyttium (modern Edremit, Turkey) was likely returning home after trading in eastern Mediterranean ports. Ancient merchant vessels often carried passengers alongside cargo to offset costs.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Aristarchus's multi-year, dangerous companionship with Paul teach about the nature of true Christian friendship?
- How does Luke's careful record of Paul's companions challenge individualistic understandings of ministry?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia. Adramyttium was a port in Mysia (northwest Asia Minor). The Greek mellontos pleein (μέλλοντος πλεῖν, "meaning to sail") indicates intended coastal route—safer than open sea but slower. Ancient ships hugged coastlines for navigation and emergency shelter. One Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us. Aristarchus's presence exemplifies costly discipleship—accompanying Paul as fellow-prisoner or attendant (Colossians 4:10, Philemon 24).
This Thessalonian believer first appears in Acts 19:29, seized during Ephesian riot. His loyalty through years of danger illustrates gospel friendship transcending self-interest. Luke's inclusion of Aristarchus by name honors faithful companions often overshadowed by apostolic giants. The plural "we" throughout chapter 27 emphasizes community—Paul wasn't a solitary hero but one member of Christ's body, supported by brothers who risked their lives for the gospel.