Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: There is no direct Hebrew equivalent for ναύκληρος in the Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, as the concept of a shipowner is more specific to the Greco-Roman maritime context. However, related concepts of leadership and ownership can be found in terms like בעל (ba'al, "owner" or "master") and רב חובל (rav chovel, "captain" or "chief sailor").

Usage: The term ναύκληρος is used in the New Testament to refer to the individual responsible for the management and operation of a ship. It appears in contexts related to maritime activities and travel.

Context: The Greek term ναύκληρος (naúklēros) is found in the New Testament in the context of seafaring and maritime travel. It specifically refers to the person who owns or is in charge of a ship, often translated as "shipowner" or "shipmaster." This role was crucial in the ancient world, where sea travel was a primary means of transportation and trade.

In the New Testament, ναύκληρος appears in Acts 27:11, where it is used to describe the shipowner involved in the Apostle Paul's journey to Rome. The passage reads: "But the centurion was more persuaded by the pilot and the owner of the ship than by what Paul said." (BSB) Here, the shipowner is depicted as having significant influence over decisions regarding the ship's voyage, highlighting the authority and responsibility associated with the position.

The role of a ναύκληρος in the ancient world extended beyond mere ownership; it involved overseeing the crew, managing cargo, and ensuring the vessel's safe passage. This position required knowledge of navigation, weather patterns, and maritime law, making the ναύκληρος a respected and essential figure in ancient society.

The use of ναύκληρος in the New Testament provides insight into the socio-economic structures of the time, illustrating the interconnectedness of commerce, travel, and communication in the spread of early Christianity. The mention of a shipowner in Acts underscores the practical challenges faced by Paul and other early Christians as they traveled to spread the Gospel.