What was Castor?
Castor is not a person in the Bible but rather part of a reference to the figureheads on a ship mentioned in Acts 28:11. Specifically, the term refers to the twin gods Castor and Pollux, also known as the Dioscuri in Greek mythology. These figures were commonly used as symbols on ships in the Roman world and represent a cultural backdrop to the events recorded in the book of Acts.
The Greek word used in the text is Διόσκουροι (Dioskouroi), meaning “sons of Zeus,” a direct reference to Castor and Pollux. The Latin names are Castor and Pollux, twins in Greco-Roman mythology considered protectors of sailors and believed to offer safety and good fortune during sea voyages. While this reference is cultural rather than theological, Luke includes it as a historical detail during Paul’s journey to Rome.
Biblical Reference
- Acts 28:11 – “After three months we put out to sea in a ship that had wintered in the island—it was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux.”
Cross References
- Acts 27:6 – Mentions another Alexandrian ship, reflecting the same maritime route.
- Jonah 1:3-5 – Offers insight into maritime beliefs and sea voyages in ancient times.
- Psalm 107:23-30 – Speaks of God’s sovereignty over the sea, contrasting with pagan superstitions.
- Exodus 20:3-5 – God’s commandment against idolatry underscores the contrast between faith in the true God and trust in man-made symbols.
Historical and Cultural Context
In the ancient Roman world, ships often bore figureheads—ornamental carvings representing deities or mythical creatures—intended to protect the vessel and honor the gods. Castor and Pollux, the mythological sons of Zeus and Leda, were especially popular among sailors. They were associated with navigation, favorable winds, and maritime protection.
The mention of these deities in Acts 28:11 is not an endorsement of their worship but a historical detail placed by Luke, the author of Acts, to set the scene. It shows Paul’s journey occurring in a real-world, pagan cultural environment. The use of an Alexandrian ship bearing this figurehead after Paul’s shipwreck on Malta serves as a contrast to the sovereign hand of God guiding Paul’s path—despite pagan customs and symbols.
Theological Implications
The brief mention of Castor and Pollux serves to highlight several theological truths:
- God is Sovereign Over Pagan Powers: While the ship bore the images of mythological gods, it was the one true God who preserved Paul through shipwreck and carried him safely to Rome.
- Paul’s Witness in a Pagan World: The Apostle Paul navigated a world full of idols, false gods, and superstition, yet he remained faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ. This reference sets the stage for Paul’s continued witness in the heart of the Roman Empire.
- Idolatry vs. True Worship: The presence of pagan imagery on the ship highlights the contrast between superstition and the truth of the gospel. Christians are reminded to place their trust not in symbols or man-made gods but in the living God.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s inclusion of the figureheads is typical of his detailed and historically rooted writing style. He often includes names, places, and objects that reflect the Greco-Roman world, lending credibility and precision to his account. The mention of Castor and Pollux may seem incidental, but it enriches the narrative by rooting it in its actual historical and cultural setting. It also subtly contrasts God’s providence with the futility of pagan superstition.
What It Means for Today’s Christians
The mention of Castor reminds believers that the gospel advances even in a world full of competing beliefs and false gods. Just as Paul traveled on a ship dedicated to pagan deities but remained under God’s providential care, Christians today live in societies filled with idols—be they literal or symbolic (money, power, fame, etc.). Yet God’s sovereign purposes prevail.
Believers are also reminded not to fear the symbols or systems of the world. What others trust for luck or protection, Christians reject in favor of the Lord’s guidance. Paul did not challenge the ship’s figurehead; he simply trusted the true God to deliver him—an example of how Christians today can live faithfully without compromising truth in a pluralistic world.
How This Points to Jesus and the Gospel
The twin gods were believed to protect sailors and ensure safe passage. Yet the narrative of Acts teaches that true deliverance comes not from mythological figures but from Jesus Christ, who calmed storms (Mark 4:39) and walked on water (Matthew 14:25). Just as Paul was preserved for the sake of the gospel, Jesus is the one who truly saves, not just from shipwreck but from sin and eternal death.
Paul’s journey to Rome underlines the unstoppable mission of the gospel. Even a ship marked by idols could not hinder the spread of God’s word. Jesus, the true Savior, leads His people safely, regardless of the signs, symbols, or idols that surround them.
Broader Biblical Themes
- God’s Sovereignty Over All Nations and Cultures – Daniel 2:21; Acts 17:24-27
- The Futility of Idols – Isaiah 44:9-20; Psalm 115:4-8
- The Gospel Advancing Through Opposition – Acts 1:8; Philippians 1:12
- Living as Light in a Pagan World – Matthew 5:14-16; 1 Peter 2:12
- Faith in God over Superstition – 2 Timothy 1:12; Proverbs 3:5-6
Reflection Questions
- What does the mention of Castor and Pollux reveal about the culture Paul was navigating?
- How does this passage encourage you to trust God even when surrounded by worldly beliefs or superstitions?
- In what ways do people today place trust in “modern idols” for protection or guidance?
- How can you live out your faith boldly like Paul in a culture that does not share your beliefs?
- How does this detail in Acts point you back to the sufficiency of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord?
Though seemingly minor, the reference to Castor in Acts 28 is a reminder that God’s mission moves forward even amid idolatry and pagan symbolism. The gospel is not hindered by the world—it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.