Book of Acts - Chapter 19 - Verse 35

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.

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.