Acts 19:35
And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter?
Acts 19:35 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Acts, the townclerk of Ephesus is addressing a crowd of people who were upset about the preaching of the apostle Paul. The townclerk, in an attempt to calm the people down, reminds them of the city's devotion to the goddess Diana. He is emphasizing the significance of Diana in Ephesus, as she was considered a great and powerful deity by the city's inhabitants. The image that fell down from Jupiter refers to a meteorite that was believed to be a sacred object connected to the worship of Diana. This verse highlights the strong religious beliefs and practices of the Ephesians and serves as a reminder of the cultural and spiritual significance of the goddess Diana in their lives.
Theological Overview
On this particular verse from Acts 19, we find an interesting theological interpretation that sheds light on the city of Ephesus and its worship practices. The townclerk, in his address to the people, highlights the deep-rooted devotion of the Ephesians to the great goddess Diana. This indicates the prevalent influence of pagan beliefs in the region, with the residents actively engaging in the worship of a deity tied to ancient mythology. The reference to the image fallen down from Jupiter further underscores the syncretism present in Ephesus, where aspects of Roman and Greek gods were blended with local religious traditions. This verse serves as a reminder of the diverse cultural and religious landscape of the ancient world, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of religious practices and beliefs among different communities.
Acts 19:35 in other translations
American Standard Version
And when the townclerk had quieted the multitude, he saith, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there who knoweth not that the city of the Ephesians is temple-keeper of the great Diana, and of the [image] which fell down from Jupiter?
World English Bible
When the town clerk had quieted the multitude, he said, “You men of Ephesus, what man is there who doesn’t know that the city of the Ephesians is temple keeper of the great goddess Artemis, and of the image which fell down from Zeus?
Douay-Rheims
And when the town clerk had appeased the multitudes, he said: Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great Diana and of Jupiter's offspring?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then the towne clearke when hee had stayed the people, saide, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is it that knoweth not howe that the citie of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddesse Diana, and of the image, which came downe from Iupiter?