Acts 27:8
And, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Fair Havens (modern Kaloi Limenes) remains identifiable on Crete's south-central coast, about 5 miles east of Cape Matala. Archaeological surveys confirm Lasea's location nearby. The harbor offered temporary shelter but lacked facilities for extended wintering—no town nearby, limited supplies, exposure to some wind directions. Phoenix (v. 12), 40 miles west, had superior facilities. The dangerous sailing season ended mid-September; the lethal period ran November-February. Their late arrival at Fair Havens meant the ship faced winter decisions with no good options.
Questions for Reflection
- How do 'fair havens'—apparently adequate solutions—sometimes tempt us away from God's harder but wiser counsel?
- What does the choice between staying safe versus seeking better conditions teach about risk assessment in spiritual decisions?
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Analysis & Commentary
Hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea. The adverb molis (μόλις, "hardly, with difficulty") continues emphasizing laborious progress. The fair havens (Καλοὺς Λιμένας, Kalous Limenas) was an anchorage on Crete's south coast—ironically named given events to follow. Its proximity to Lasea, a small city, provided minimal shelter and supplies. The location proved inadequate for wintering (v. 12), creating the dilemma that led to disaster.
This geographical detail sets up the coming critical decision: stay in Fair Havens' safety despite discomfort, or risk sailing to better winter quarters? The debate (vv. 9-12) between Paul's warning and the pilot's expertise illustrates faith versus worldly wisdom. Fair Havens' inadequacy became a test—trust Paul's prophetic warning or the centurion's natural judgment? The name "Fair Havens" gains ironic weight: what seemed fair (adequate) proved dangerously insufficient, while Paul's harder counsel would have ensured safety. God's ways often appear less attractive than human alternatives yet lead to true security.