Topical Bible: The Wind: Euroclydon

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Topical Encyclopedia

Euroclydon is a term found in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts, referring to a tempestuous wind that played a significant role in the Apostle Paul's journey to Rome. The term is derived from the Greek word "Eurakulōn," which is believed to be a compound of "euros" (east wind) and "kludōn" (a violent agitation of the sea), suggesting a strong, east-northeast wind. This wind is associated with the Mediterranean Sea, particularly during the stormy season.

Biblical Reference:

The primary biblical reference to Euroclydon is found in Acts 27:14, where it is described as a "tempestuous wind" that arose during Paul's voyage to Rome. The Berean Standard Bible translates this passage as follows:

"But it was not long before a cyclone called the Northeaster swept down across the island."

In this context, Euroclydon is identified as a "Northeaster," a type of storm well-known to sailors in the Mediterranean region. This wind was notorious for its sudden and violent nature, capable of causing significant danger to ships caught in its path.

Historical and Geographical Context:

The event involving Euroclydon occurred during Paul's journey as a prisoner aboard a ship sailing from Caesarea to Rome. The ship had set sail from the island of Crete, attempting to reach a safer harbor for the winter. However, the onset of Euroclydon thwarted their plans, driving the ship off course and into a perilous situation.

The Mediterranean Sea, particularly during the late autumn and winter months, was known for its unpredictable weather patterns. The Euroclydon, or Northeaster, was a feared phenomenon among ancient mariners due to its capacity to generate massive waves and strong winds, making navigation extremely hazardous.

Theological Significance:

The account of Euroclydon in Acts 27 serves as a powerful narrative of divine providence and protection. Despite the ferocity of the storm, Paul received assurance from an angel of God that he and all aboard the ship would be spared (Acts 27:23-24). This promise was fulfilled when the ship eventually ran aground on the island of Malta, and all 276 passengers survived.

The account of Euroclydon highlights themes of faith, divine intervention, and the sovereignty of God over the natural world. It underscores the belief that God's purposes will prevail, even amidst the chaos and uncertainty of life's storms.

Cultural and Linguistic Notes:

The term Euroclydon is unique to the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, where it is transliterated from the Greek. Modern translations, including the Berean Standard Bible, often use terms like "Northeaster" or "cyclone" to convey the nature of the storm. The choice of terminology reflects both the historical understanding of Mediterranean weather patterns and the linguistic evolution of biblical translations.

In summary, Euroclydon represents more than just a meteorological event; it is a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the Apostle Paul, as well as a reminder of God's omnipotence and care for His people in times of trial.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 27:14
But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Tempest and Trust
... sailed close by Crete.14. But not long after there arose against it a
tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon.15. And when the ship was ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/tempest and trust.htm

Acts XXVII
... It was deceitful lull, the prelude to unexpected disasters. 14-17. (14) "But not
long after, a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon, struck, against her, (15 ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts xxvii.htm

Accidental Causes of Corruption.
... Sec. 3. St. Luke explains (Acts 27:14) that it was the typhonic wind called
Euroclydon' which caused the ship in which St. Paul ...
/.../chapter iv accidental causes of.htm

Acts xxvi. 30-32
... sailed close to Crete. But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous
wind, called Euroclydon. [1157] And when the ship ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily liii acts xxvi 30-32.htm

The Acts of the Apostles.
... places recently identified), and Melita (Malta), as well as the motions and effects
of the tempestuous northeast wind called Euraquilo (AV Euroclydon) in the ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 85 the acts of.htm

Sailors' Hymns.
... Mark what wonders God performs When He speaks, and, unconfined, Rush to battle all
His storms In the chariots of the wind. ... Wall of Euroclydon, Be thou at rest! ...
/.../brown/the story of the hymns and tunes/chapter x sailors hymns.htm

Enthusiasm.
... endured the heat of the Syrian sun and the violence of Euroclydon, winds and ... forces
were so demoralized that they were scattered like chaff before the wind. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/to the work to the work/chapter v enthusiasm.htm

Concerning Persecution
... There was a crosswind arose called Euroclydon (Acts 27:14), but God had given ... Therefore
when the wind blew never so contrary, Paul believed it would at last ...
/.../the beatitudes an exposition of matthew 51-12/21 concerning persecution.htm