Book of Acts - Chapter 19 - Verse 28

Upon hearing these words, the people in Ephesus were overcome with rage and began chanting, "Great is Diana of the Ephesians." This verse signifies the intense devotion and reverence the Ephesians had for their goddess, Diana. Diana, also known as Artemis, was a widely worshiped deity in the Greek and Roman pantheon, particularly revered as the goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and childbirth. The people's reaction reflects their deep-seated belief in the power and importance of Diana in their lives. The verse highlights the strong emotional attachment and fervent religious convictions of the inhabitants of Ephesus towards their patron deity. It also illustrates the potential for conflict and unrest that can arise when religious beliefs are challenged or threatened. The verse serves as a reminder of the significant role that religion plays in shaping individuals' identities and communities, and the impact it can have on social dynamics and interactions.

When the Ephesians heard the teachings of the apostle Paul regarding the true God and His power, they became filled with anger and began shouting praises to Diana, their goddess. This reaction highlights the deep devotion and ingrained beliefs of the people in Ephesus towards their idol. Diana - also known as Artemis in Greek mythology - was a revered deity in the region, associated with fertility, wilderness, and hunting. The exclamation "Great is Diana of the Ephesians" reflects the fervor and loyalty that the Ephesians had towards their pagan goddess. This incident serves as a reminder of the clash between the teachings of Christianity and the entrenched polytheistic beliefs of the ancient world. It also shows the power that religious beliefs can hold over people, leading them to act passionately in defense of their faith.