Strong’s Greek 5295 describes the nautical action of running a ship “under the lee” of a land-mass so as to gain temporary shelter from wind and sea. Although found only once in the New Testament, the verb gives vivid detail to Luke’s seafaring narrative and illustrates a wider biblical motif of refuge amid storm.

Occurrence in Scripture

Acts 27:16 stands alone in employing the term: “Passing to the lee of a small island called Cauda, we barely managed to secure the lifeboat”. Here Luke, the historian-eyewitness, notes the crew’s desperate tactic as a violent northeaster drives Paul’s vessel toward shipwreck. The participle translated “passing to the lee” renders Strong’s 5295.

Nautical background and ancient maritime practice

Mediterranean sailors frequently “ran under” smaller islands to escape the full force of prevailing winds. By steering along the sheltered side of Cauda (also spelled Clauda), the helmsman could momentarily steady the ship and haul in the dinghy that was otherwise dragging perilously behind (Acts 27:17 hints they next under-girded the hull with cables). Luke’s accurate seamanship terms have been confirmed by classical sources and modern nautical studies, reinforcing the historical credibility of Acts.

Theological and ministry significance

1. Providence in adversity
• Acts 27 portrays the sovereignty of God guiding Paul toward Rome through storm and shipwreck. The single verb in verse 16 contributes to a narrative in which every nautical maneuver falls under divine oversight (Acts 27:24-25).
2. Faith tested yet preserved
• The crew’s frantic attempt to shelter highlights the contrast between human ingenuity and the apostle’s calm reliance on God’s promise. This tension encourages believers to employ prudent means while ultimately trusting the Lord (compare Proverbs 21:31; Acts 27:35).
3. Refuge imagery
• Scripture repeatedly depicts the Lord as a shield or hiding place (Psalm 46:1; Isaiah 25:4). The act of “running under the lee” of Cauda supplies a concrete picture of seeking protection in Christ amid life’s tempests (Hebrews 6:18).

Illustrations for teaching and preaching

• Crisis management: Like the sailors who quickly sought the lee of Cauda, churches facing cultural or personal storms must act decisively yet prayerfully, fastening themselves to the sure promises of God’s word.
• Temporary shelters vs. ultimate safety: Cauda provided only brief relief; true safety awaited on Malta under God’s miraculous care (Acts 28:1). Similarly, earthly solutions are limited; eternal security is found solely in the gospel.
• Evangelistic application: Paul’s steadfast composure aboard the storm-tossed ship models how Christian witness shines during calamity, drawing unbelievers to salvation (Acts 27:23-25, 44).

Relationship to broader biblical themes

Running under the lee reflects:
• The pilgrim journey motif—believers navigating a hostile environment toward the kingdom (1 Peter 2:11).
• Divine deliverance through water—echoing Noah (Genesis 7), Israel at the Red Sea (Exodus 14), and disciples on Galilee (Mark 4:35-41).
• God’s use of apparent detours to accomplish mission. Cauda’s brief refuge facilitated Paul’s eventual arrival in Rome, fulfilling Acts 1:8.

Summary

Though Strong’s 5295 appears only once, its precise nautical nuance enriches Luke’s record, underscores God’s providence, and supplies enduring imagery for refuge in Christ. Pastors and students alike may draw upon this vivid scene to illustrate faith under pressure and the sure shelter found in the Savior amid every storm.