pedalion is the small steering implement by which a ship is directed.

The term denotes a ship’s steering implement: in Acts 27:40 it is associated with ropes loosened as the ship heads for shore, and in James 3:4 a small one turns a large ship under the direction of its steerer.

1. Ship’s steering implement · dominant

   In Acts 27:40, the genitive plural form occurs in the clause about loosening ropes while the vessel is directed toward shore; the APB renders this as “the ropes of the rudders.” In James 3:4, the genitive singular form occurs in the comparison of a very small implement turning large ships; the APB renders “are turned by a very small rudder.”

   Acts 27:40James 3:4

In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB presents the term with “rudders” in Acts 27:40 and “rudder” in James 3:4. These renderings fit the maritime clauses.