And the contention was so sharp - The word used here παροξυσμός paroxusmos is that from which our word “paroxysm” is derived. It may denote “any excitement of mind,” and is used in a good sense in Hebrews 10:24. It here means, however, “a violent altercation” that resulted in their separation for a time, and in their engaging in different spheres of labor.
And sailed into Cyprus - This was the native place of Barnabas. See the notes on Acts 4:36.