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Fair Havens

Locations
Modern Location Crete, Greece
Coordinates 35.0833, 24.8333

Geographical Setting

Fair Havens is a natural harbor located on the southern coast of Crete, situated approximately five miles east of Cape Matala.

What is the meaning of Fair Havens in the Bible?

Fair Havens is a roadstead on the south coast of Crete, about 5 miles east of Cape Matala. It has good anchorage and shelter from north and northwest winds, but is not commodious for wintering.

SIGNIFICANCE

This location marks the point where the Apostle Paul and his companions anchored, illustrating the practical maritime challenges and decision-making processes involved in ancient sea travel as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Fair Havens (located near modern Crete, Greece) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Fair Havens in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Fair Havens clarify?

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Fair Havens." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/fair-havens/
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