Frapping-cables, also known as "helps" in some translations, are mentioned in the context of ancient maritime practices, particularly in the account of the Apostle Paul's voyage to Rome as recorded in the Book of Acts. These cables were used to secure and reinforce a ship's hull during severe storms or when the vessel was at risk of breaking apart. The practice of frapping involved passing ropes or cables under the ship's hull and tightening them to hold the planks together, providing additional structural integrity.

Biblical Reference:

The primary biblical reference to frapping-cables is found in Acts 27:17. The passage describes the measures taken by the crew of the ship carrying Paul to Rome when they encountered a violent storm:

"After hoisting it up, they used supports to undergird the ship. Then, fearing they would run aground on the sandbars of Syrtis, they lowered the sea anchor and were driven along." (Acts 27:17)

In this verse, the term "supports" refers to the frapping-cables used to undergird the ship. The crew's actions highlight the severity of the storm and their desperate efforts to prevent the ship from being destroyed.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the ancient world, maritime travel was fraught with danger, and ships were often at the mercy of the elements. The Mediterranean Sea, where Paul's journey took place, was notorious for sudden and violent storms. Ships of that era were constructed primarily of wood, and their design made them vulnerable to the stresses of turbulent seas. Frapping-cables were an essential part of a sailor's toolkit, providing a means to reinforce the ship's structure when it was under duress.

The use of frapping-cables reflects the ingenuity and resourcefulness of ancient mariners. By passing ropes under the hull and tightening them, sailors could effectively bind the ship's planks together, reducing the risk of the vessel breaking apart. This practice was a testament to the sailors' understanding of their ships and their ability to adapt to challenging conditions.

Theological Implications:

The account of Paul's voyage and the use of frapping-cables can be seen as a metaphor for divine providence and human responsibility. While the sailors took practical steps to secure the ship, the narrative also emphasizes God's sovereignty and protection over Paul and his companions. Despite the perilous circumstances, Paul received assurance from an angel that he and all aboard would be saved (Acts 27:23-24).

This duality of human effort and divine intervention is a recurring theme in Scripture, illustrating the belief that while humans are called to act wisely and responsibly, ultimate deliverance and safety come from God. The use of frapping-cables serves as a reminder of the balance between human initiative and reliance on divine guidance.

Conclusion:

The mention of frapping-cables in Acts 27 provides insight into the practical measures taken by ancient sailors to ensure their survival in treacherous conditions. It also serves as a powerful illustration of the interplay between human action and divine providence, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative.Frapping-cables (1 Occurrence)

Acts 27:17
and, after hoisting it on board, they used frapping-cables to undergird the ship, and, as they were afraid of being driven on the Syrtis quicksands, they lowered the gear and lay to.
(WEY)

Frapping-cables (1 Occurrence)
Frapping-cables. Frapping, Frapping-cables. Fraud . Multi-Version
Concordance Frapping-cables (1 Occurrence). Acts 27 ...
/f/frapping-cables.htm - 6k

Frapping (1 Occurrence)
... Acts 27:17 and, after hoisting it on board, they used frapping-cables to undergird
the ship, and, as they were afraid of being driven on the Syrtis quicksands ...
/f/frapping.htm - 6k

Fraud (15 Occurrences)

/f/fraud.htm - 11k

Gear (3 Occurrences)
... Acts 27:17 and, after hoisting it on board, they used frapping-cables to undergird
the ship, and, as they were afraid of being driven on the Syrtis quicksands ...
/g/gear.htm - 8k

Board (47 Occurrences)
... Acts 27:17 and, after hoisting it on board, they used frapping-cables to undergird
the ship, and, as they were afraid of being driven on the Syrtis quicksands ...
/b/board.htm - 23k

Afraid (361 Occurrences)
... Acts 27:17 and, after hoisting it on board, they used frapping-cables to undergird
the ship, and, as they were afraid of being driven on the Syrtis quicksands ...
/a/afraid.htm - 35k

Hoisting (2 Occurrences)
... Acts 27:17 and, after hoisting it on board, they used frapping-cables to undergird
the ship, and, as they were afraid of being driven on the Syrtis quicksands ...
/h/hoisting.htm - 7k

Lay (524 Occurrences)
... Acts 27:17 and, after hoisting it on board, they used frapping-cables to undergird
the ship, and, as they were afraid of being driven on the Syrtis quicksands ...
/l/lay.htm - 41k

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