Fair Havens
Summary
A small bay on the southern coast of Crete where Paul's ship anchored during his voyage to Rome, though it proved unsuitable for wintering and led to the fateful decision to sail on toward Phenice.
☩Location and Character
Fair Havens (Greek: Kaloi Limenes) is a roadstead on the south coast of Crete, about five miles east of Cape Matala, near the city of Lasea. The harbor is formed by a bay open to the east and sheltered on the southwest by two small islands. It is still known by its original Greek name today. The place is shut in on the west by a bold headland and provides safe anchorage between the islands and shore, though it remains open to the sea.
☩Paul's Voyage and Counsel
Paul's ship arrived at Fair Havens after working slowly westward under the lee of Crete in rough weather caused by continuing northwest winds. The ship remained there 'a considerable time' weather-bound. A council was held regarding whether to winter there or attempt to reach the better harbor at Phenice. Paul advised staying, warning that the voyage would result in disaster, but the centurion gave more heed to the captain and ship-master.
☩Fateful Decision
The harbor was judged 'not commodious to winter in,' as it was exposed to the elements. When a south wind arose, promising fair weather, the majority decided to attempt reaching Phenice. This deceptive wind soon gave way to a fierce northeaster (Euroclydon), and the vessel was driven helplessly for fourteen days before wrecking at Malta. As one commentator notes, 'the event justified St. Paul's advice.'
Related Verses1 mention
Acts· 1 verse
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Fair Havens," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. III (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Fair Havens," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. II (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Fair Havens," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. I (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).
- 4.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Fair Havens," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).