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Book of Acts - Chapter 19 - Verse 34

19:34
But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.

Meaning

When the crowd in Ephesus discovered that the person they were confronting was a Jew, they erupted into a unified chant in honor of the goddess Diana. This event took place for about two hours, showcasing the deep devotion and reverence the Ephesians had for their goddess. Diana, also known as Artemis, was a prominent deity in ancient Greek and Roman mythology, associated with the moon, wild animals, and the hunt. The city of Ephesus was particularly devoted to Diana, with a famous temple dedicated to her located there. The verse illustrates the intense emotions and religious fervor of the Ephesians towards their goddess, who held a significant place in their lives and culture. This incident highlights the power of religious beliefs and the strong influence it can have on a community, sparking intense reactions and outbursts of devotion.

Theological Overview

When the crowd in Ephesus discovered that the man causing a disturbance was a Jew, they erupted in a unified outcry praising the goddess Diana for about two hours. This incident in Acts 19:34 provides insight into the religious context of the city of Ephesus during the time of Paul's ministry. Diana, also known as Artemis, was a widely worshipped deity in the ancient world, particularly in Ephesus where her temple was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This verse demonstrates the intense devotion and fervor with which the Ephesians worshipped their goddess, Diana. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the power of religion and the influence it had on the culture and society of that time. It also underscores the contrast between the worship of false gods like Diana and the preaching of the one true God by the Apostle Paul.

American Standard Version

But when they perceived that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.
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