Lexical Summary parasémos: Marked, distinguished, signified Original Word: παρασημος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance side-marked with a figureheadFrom para and the base of semaino; side-marked, i.e. Labelled (with a badge (figure-head) of a ship) -- sign. see GREEK para see GREEK semaino NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom para and séma (a sign, mark) Definition marked amiss, marked at the side, marked with a sign NASB Translation figurehead (1), had (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 3902: παράσημοςπαράσημος, παράσημον (παρά (which see IV. 2), and σῆμα (a mark)) 1. marked falsely, spurious, counterfeit; as coin. 2. marked beside or on the margin; so of noteworthy words, which the reader of a book marks on the margin hence, 3. universally, noted, marked, conspicuous, remarkable (of persons, in a bad sense, notorious); marked with a sign: ἐν πλοίῳ παρασήμῳ Διοσκωυροις, in a ship marked with the image or figure of the Dioscuri, Acts 28:11 (cf. B. D. under the word The term designates a vessel distinguished by a visible emblem or figurehead. In antiquity such signs served practical, decorative, and religious purposes, identifying a ship’s home port, patron deity, or owner, and supposedly securing the favor of the gods during perilous voyages. Biblical Occurrence Acts 28:11 records the sole New Testament use: “After three months we set sail in an Alexandrian ship that had the Twin Brothers as its figurehead” (Berean Standard Bible). Luke notes the detail while narrating Paul’s final leg from Malta to Rome, revealing the everyday maritime world through which the gospel advanced. Historical Context: Figureheads and Maritime Practice 1. Popular Symbols. Greco-Roman mariners often honored Castor and Pollux (the Dioscuri) as guardians of sailors. Their images, carved or painted on the prow, were meant to calm fears of shipwreck. Theological Reflections • Sovereign Providence. Though the ship bore pagan imagery, the Lord governed its course, underscoring Psalm 24:1—“The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof.” God’s purpose for Paul to testify in Rome (Acts 23:11) overrode human superstition. Ministry Applications 1. Engaging Culture. Believers today often traverse environments marked by secular or idolatrous emblems. Acts 28:11 encourages respectful presence without compromise, bringing truth aboard every vessel—workplace, classroom, or marketplace. Related Scriptural Themes • Protection in Voyage: Psalm 107:23-30; 2 Corinthians 11:25. |