Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Usage:An anchor is a device, typically made of metal, used to connect a vessel to the bed of a body of water to prevent the craft from drifting due to wind or current. In biblical times, anchors were essential for maritime navigation and safety, symbolizing stability and security.
Biblical References:The concept of an anchor is mentioned explicitly in the New Testament, particularly in the context of maritime activities and metaphorically in spiritual teachings.
1.
Acts 27:29-30, 40 : The Apostle Paul’s journey to Rome provides a vivid account of the use of anchors during a storm at sea. As the ship carrying Paul was caught in a violent storm, the crew took measures to secure the vessel. "Fearing that we would be dashed against the rocks, they dropped four anchors from the stern and prayed for daylight" (
Acts 27:29). This passage illustrates the practical use of anchors in ancient seafaring, highlighting their role in providing safety and stability during perilous conditions.
2.
Hebrews 6:19 : The anchor is used metaphorically to describe the hope believers have in Christ. "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and steadfast. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain." Here, the anchor symbolizes the steadfast and secure hope that Christians possess through faith in Jesus Christ, offering assurance and stability amidst life's uncertainties.
Symbolism:In Christian symbolism, the anchor represents hope, steadfastness, and faith. It is often depicted in Christian art and literature as a symbol of the believer's secure and unwavering trust in God's promises. The anchor's ability to hold a ship steady amidst turbulent waters serves as a powerful metaphor for the believer's reliance on God's unchanging nature and faithfulness.
Historical Context:In the ancient world, anchors were typically made of stone, wood, or metal, with designs varying based on the materials available and the size of the vessel. The use of anchors was crucial for the safety of ships, especially in the unpredictable conditions of the Mediterranean Sea, where much of the biblical narrative unfolds.
Theological Implications:The anchor as a metaphor for hope in
Hebrews 6:19 underscores the theological theme of perseverance and trust in God's promises. This hope is not a passive wish but an active, living confidence rooted in the character and covenant of God. It reflects the assurance that believers have in the salvation and eternal life promised through Jesus Christ.
Cultural Significance:In early Christian communities, the anchor was sometimes used as a covert symbol of faith, especially during times of persecution. It served as a discreet emblem of Christian identity and hope, often found in the catacombs and on early Christian tombstones.
Conclusion:The anchor, both as a practical tool and a powerful symbol, holds significant meaning within the biblical narrative. It represents the security and hope found in God's promises, providing believers with a firm foundation amidst the trials and tribulations of life.
Greek
45. agkura -- an anchor... Definition: an anchor. Word Origin from the same as agkale Definition an anchor
NASB Word Usage anchor (1),
anchors (3). anchor. From the
...Library
A Total Wreck, all Hands Saved
... And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had let down the
boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have castanchors out of...
Paul's Shipwreck
... Fearing that we might be wrecked on the rocks, they threw out fouranchors
from the stern and prayed for daylight. The sailors wanted...
The Advance of Xerxes into Greece.
... Greek."One crew escape."The alarm spread."Return of the Persian galleys."The monument
of stones."Progress of the fleet."The fleetanchors in a bay...
The Voyage and Shipwreck
... Then fearing," Luke writes, "lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast
fouranchors out of the stern, and wished for the day."....
Acts xxvi. 30-32
... Then fearing lest they should have fallen upon rocks, they cast fouranchors
out of the stern, and wished for the day. And as the...
Acts XXVII
... (29) Then fearing lest they should fall upon breakers, they cast fouranchors out
of the stern, and wished for day." From this time till day-break, the ship...
The Form of Sound Words
... storms. They are God's sheetanchors, which are cast out into the sea,
to hold our little vessels fast in the midst of tempests....
Youthful Strength
... the currents run strong, when the ship approaches the dangerous place, the men take
their stations at appointed places, and the ponderousanchors are loosened...
Perseverance of Saints.
... Then fearing lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they castanchors out
of the stern, and wished for the day.30. And as the ship...
Paul's Epistles; his Collection for the Poor Saints at Jerusalem...
... sailors, in the midst of danger, displayed no little ability, and that their conduct
in "undergirding the ship," [143:2] and in casting "fouranchors out of...
Thesaurus
Anchors (3 Occurrences)...Anchors (3 Occurrences). Acts 27:29 Fearing that we would run aground on rocky ground,
they let go four
anchors from the stern, and wished for daylight.
...Wishing (25 Occurrences)
... Acts 27:29 and fearing lest on rough places we may fall, out of the stern having
cast fouranchors, they were wishing day to come. (YLT)....
Casting (54 Occurrences)
... Acts 27:29 and fearing lest we should be cast on rocky places, casting fouranchors
out of the stern, they wished that day were come. (DBY)....
Boats (11 Occurrences)
... the latter "captain," may be better), the sailors (Acts 27:30, who treacherously
sought to lower the ship's boat on the pretense of laying outanchors from the...
Ships (46 Occurrences)
... the latter "captain," may be better), the sailors (Acts 27:30, who treacherously
sought to lower the ship's boat on the pretense of laying outanchors from the...
Unloosing (1 Occurrence)
... Acts 27:40 So they cut away theanchors and left them in the sea, unloosing
at the same time the bands which secured the paddle-rudders....
Untying (5 Occurrences)
... RSV NIV). Acts 27:40 Casting off theanchors, they left them in the sea,
at the same time untying the rudder ropes. Hoisting up the...
Loosing (7 Occurrences)
... Acts 27:40 So they cut away theanchors and left them in the sea, unloosing
at the same time the bands which secured the paddle-rudders....
Lowered (14 Occurrences)
... Acts 27:30 As the sailors were trying to flee out of the ship, and had lowered the
boat into the sea, pretending that they would lay outanchors from the bow...
Lifeboat (3 Occurrences)
... Acts 27:30 As the sailors were trying to flee out of the ship, and had lowered the
boat into the sea, pretending that they would lay outanchors from the bow...
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