Lexical Summary pura: Fire, burning Original Word: πυρά Strong's Exhaustive Concordance fire. From pur; a fire (concretely) -- fire. see GREEK pur NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom pur Definition a fire NASB Translation fire (2). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4443: πυράπυρά, πυράς, ἡ (πῦρ), from Homer down, a fire, a pile of burning fuel: Acts 28:2f Topical Lexicon Summary of Usage Strong’s Greek 4443 occurs twice, both in Acts 28, referring to a pile-fire kindled on the island of Malta after Paul’s shipwreck. In each case the term highlights a deliberately gathered heap of fuel that produces sustained warmth. Luke records the scene to underscore divine preservation, local hospitality, and Paul’s exemplary service. Historical Setting First-century Mediterranean travel by sea was perilous in winter. Ships carried no artificial heating, and drenched survivors of a wreck faced hypothermia as much as starvation. A quickly assembled fire was essential for saving lives. On Malta the “barbaroi” (non-Greek speakers) would have relied on native shrubs or driftwood, arranging them in a mound that could burn hot and long despite rain. Luke’s note that the islanders “kindled a fire” reflects ordinary maritime protocol, yet he frames it as providential care for God’s apostle. Biblical Context and Narrative Significance Acts 28:2—“The islanders showed us extraordinary kindness. They kindled a fire and welcomed all of us because it was raining and cold.” Acts 28:3—“Paul gathered a bundle of sticks, and as he laid them on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself to his hand.” 1. Hospitality: The Maltese initiative models compassionate provision for strangers (see Hebrews 13:2; Matthew 25:35). Theology of Fire as Warmth Scripture often employs fire as a symbol of judgment or purification, yet Strong’s 4443 points to another thread: fire as God-given warmth and life. Examples include Elijah’s hearth cake (1 Kings 19:6) and Peter warming himself (John 18:18, different Greek term). These scenes remind readers that the Creator not only disciplines but also cares for physical needs. Practical Ministry Implications • Provide tangible aid first. The islanders warmed bodies before Paul preached. Meeting physical needs can soften hearts to spiritual truth. Reception in Early Church Tradition Patristic writers such as John Chrysostom highlighted this episode to teach zeal in good works, noting that Paul’s hands, engaged in manual labor, became instruments of miraculous power. Later Christian art often depicts the Maltese fire as a scene of divine light against stormy darkness, symbolizing the gospel entering new territories. Concluding Reflection Strong’s 4443 directs attention to a modest pile of burning sticks that God used to display kindness, servant-hearted leadership, and sovereign protection. Whether on a Mediterranean shore or in present-day ministry, “kindling a fire” for others remains a fitting image of practical love that opens doors for the message of Jesus Christ. Forms and Transliterations πυραν πυράν πυρὰν πυργοβάρεσί puran pyran pyrán pyrànLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Acts 28:2 N-AFSGRK: ἅψαντες γὰρ πυρὰν προσελάβοντο πάντας NAS: they kindled a fire and received KJV: they kindled a fire, and received INT: having kindled indeed a fire they received all Acts 28:3 N-AFS |
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