Acts 28:1
And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita.
Original Language Analysis
Καὶ
And
G2532
Καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 9
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
διασωθέντες
when they were escaped
G1295
διασωθέντες
when they were escaped
Strong's:
G1295
Word #:
2 of 9
to save thoroughly, i.e., (by implication or analogy) to cure, preserve, rescue, etc
τότε
then
G5119
τότε
then
Strong's:
G5119
Word #:
3 of 9
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
ἐπέγνωσαν
they knew
G1921
ἐπέγνωσαν
they knew
Strong's:
G1921
Word #:
4 of 9
to know upon some mark, i.e., recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
5 of 9
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
Cross References
Acts 27:26Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain island.Acts 27:44And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.Acts 27:39And when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship.
Historical Context
Malta (Roman 'Melita') was a Phoenician colony later controlled by Rome, located on crucial Mediterranean shipping routes. Paul's shipwreck occurred in late October/early November AD 60 during his journey to Rome as a prisoner. The island's population spoke a Punic dialect but was familiar with Greek and Latin.
Questions for Reflection
- How have apparent disasters in your life become opportunities for unexpected ministry?
- What does God's preservation of all 276 passengers reveal about his sovereignty over circumstances?
Analysis & Commentary
The island was called Melita—Modern Malta, 58 miles south of Sicily. The Greek 'Melitē' (Μελίτη) identifies this strategic Mediterranean island where Paul's shipwrecked company found refuge. Luke's careful geographical notation continues Acts' pattern of precise historical detail, confirming the narrative's reliability. When they were escaped (διασωθέντες) means 'brought safely through,' emphasizing divine preservation from the storm described in chapter 27. God's promise to Paul that all 276 passengers would survive (27:24) finds fulfillment, demonstrating that no human circumstances can thwart divine purposes. Malta becomes another stage for gospel witness, showing how apparent disaster advances God's mission.