Acts 28:3 records Paul gathering φρυγάνων—sticks or dry twigs—to build a fire after the Malta shipwreck. The neuter plural noun denotes small pieces of wood suitable for kindling, typically dead branches or brush. Classical usage distinguished these from larger timber (δένδρα) and shrubs (θάμνος), defining φρύγανον as undershrubs or collective firewood. The mundane detail captures a moment of service: the apostle stoops to gather sticks. Then a viper strikes from the bundle, turning routine task into another opportunity for divine vindication. Even gathering firewood becomes stage for gospel demonstration.