Frapping is a nautical term that refers to the act of securing a ship's hull with ropes or cables to prevent it from breaking apart during a storm or under stress. This practice is mentioned in the context of the Apostle Paul's voyage to Rome, as recorded in the Book of Acts. The term is derived from the Greek word "hypozōnnymi," which means to undergird or bind together.

Biblical Reference:

The concept of frapping is specifically mentioned in Acts 27, during Paul's perilous journey by sea. As the ship carrying Paul and other passengers encountered a violent storm, the crew took measures to secure the vessel:

"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 passage, the crew's action of undergirding the ship with supports is an example of frapping. This was a common practice in ancient maritime navigation to reinforce the structural integrity of a ship when facing turbulent conditions.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the ancient world, ships were primarily constructed from wood and were vulnerable to the forces of nature, especially during storms. Frapping involved passing ropes or cables under the hull and tightening them to hold the planks together, thus providing additional strength and stability. This technique was crucial for survival in the open sea, where the risk of shipwreck was significant.

The mention of frapping in Acts 27 highlights the practical measures taken by sailors to preserve life and property during maritime voyages. It also underscores the severity of the storm faced by Paul and his companions, as the crew resorted to this emergency procedure to prevent the ship from breaking apart.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the account of frapping in Acts 27 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 those with him. Despite the dire circumstances, Paul received assurance from an angel that he and all aboard would be saved (Acts 27:23-24).

This interplay between human action and divine intervention is a recurring theme in Scripture, illustrating the belief that while humans are called to act wisely and responsibly, ultimate trust and reliance should be placed in God's providential care.

Application:

The concept of frapping serves as a reminder of the importance of preparation and diligence in the face of life's storms. Just as sailors took measures to secure their vessel, believers are encouraged to fortify their faith and trust in God during times of trial. The account in Acts 27 encourages Christians to balance practical action with faith, recognizing that God is present and active even in the most challenging circumstances.(p. pr. & vb. n.) of Frap.996. boetheia -- help
... help. From boethos; aid; specially, a rope or chain for frapping a vessel -- help.
see GREEK boethos. (boetheiais) -- 1 Occurrence. (boetheian) -- 1 Occurrence. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/996.htm - 7k

Acts XXVII
... The second was to undergird the ship, a process called frapping in modern style,
which consists in passing heavy cables under the hull, and fastening them ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts xxvii.htm

Frapping (1 Occurrence)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Frap. Multi-Version Concordance
Frapping (1 Occurrence). Acts 27:17 and, after hoisting ...
/f/frapping.htm - 6k

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

Frantic (2 Occurrences)

/f/frantic.htm - 7k

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

Frapping: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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