Acts 27:20
And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away.
Acts 27:20 · King James Version
Meaning
During this time at sea, the ship Saul was on faced a severe storm for many days, with no sun or stars visible. The sailors on board were in a state of despair, realizing that they had lost all hope of being saved. This situation symbolizes a dark and hopeless period in one's life, where all external signs of guidance and hope have vanished. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, one must hold on to faith and persevere through the storm, trusting that salvation will come in due time. The verse highlights the importance of resilience, faith, and perseverance in times of hardship, as ultimately there is always hope for a brighter future despite the challenges faced along the way.
Theological Overview
This verse from Acts 27:20 describes a moment of great despair for the people on board the ship with the Apostle Paul. The lack of sunlight and stars combined with a severe storm caused the crew and passengers to lose all hope of being saved. This situation serves as a powerful metaphor for times in our own lives when we feel overwhelmed by circumstances beyond our control. The theological interpretation of this verse can remind us of the importance of holding on to hope even in the darkest of times, knowing that God is ultimately in control and can bring salvation when all seems lost.
Acts 27:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
And when neither sun nor stars shone upon [us] for many days, and no small tempest lay on [us], all hope that we should be saved was now taken away.
World English Bible
When neither sun nor stars shone on us for many days, and no small storm pressed on us, all hope that we would be saved was now taken away.
Douay-Rheims
And when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and no small storms lay on us, all hope of our being saved was now taken away.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when neither sunne nor starres in many dayes appeared, and no small tempest lay vpon vs, all hope that we should be saued, was then taken away.