Syrtis
LocationsGeographical Setting
A shallow, sandy coastal region in the Mediterranean Sea historically notorious for maritime hazards.
What is the meaning of Syrtis in the Bible?
The Syrtis denotes the extensive sandbanks and shallow waters along the northern coast of Africa, specifically the Gulf of Sidra, which posed significant navigational risks to ancient vessels. Biblical accounts record that the ship carrying the Apostle Paul encountered these dangerous shoals during its voyage to Rome.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying the Syrtis clarifies the specific maritime perils described in Acts 27, demonstrating how the treacherous geography of the North African coast directly influenced the narrative of Paul's journey.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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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.