New Testament
Acts 1:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Everyone in Jerusalem heard about this, so they named that field Aceldama in their own language, which means 'The Field of Blood.'
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And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.
What Acts 1:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jerusalem, a tragic event became widely known, leading to the naming of a specific field. This field was called Aceldama, which translates to 'The Field of Blood.' The name reflects the sorrowful history associated with it. The people of Jerusalem were deeply affected by the events that took place there. This name serves as a reminder of the consequences of betrayal and loss. It highlights how communities remember significant events and their impact on collective memory. The story behind Aceldama is not just about a location; it symbolizes the weight of choices and their lasting effects on lives. The field stands as a testament to the importance of understanding our actions and their repercussions in our lives and communities. It encourages us to reflect on our decisions and their potential outcomes, reminding us that our choices can leave a mark on history, just as they did in Jerusalem. This narrative invites us to consider how we can learn from the past to shape a better future.
How to apply Acts 1:19 to your life
When faced with difficult choices, think about the long-term effects of your actions. Reflect on how your decisions can impact not just you, but also those around you. Use the story of Aceldama as a reminder to choose wisely and learn from the past to create a better future for yourself and your community. Every choice matters, so make them count.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Matthias Is Chosen (Acts 1:12–26)
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Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Acts 1:19
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Aceldama mean in Acts 1:19?
Aceldama means 'The Field of Blood' in Aramaic. This name reflects the tragic events associated with the field, particularly the betrayal of Judas Iscariot, which led to his death and the subsequent purchase of the field with the money he received for betraying Jesus.
Why is the field called 'The Field of Blood'?
The field is called 'The Field of Blood' because it is linked to the bloodshed resulting from Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus. After Judas hanged himself, the field became a symbol of the consequences of his actions, serving as a reminder of the sorrow and loss that betrayal can bring.
What lesson can we learn from Acts 1:19?
Acts 1:19 teaches us about the importance of our choices and their consequences. The naming of Aceldama serves as a reminder that our actions can have lasting effects not only on ourselves but also on our communities. It encourages us to reflect on our decisions and strive to make choices that lead to positive outcomes.
How did the people of Jerusalem react to the events leading to Aceldama?
The people of Jerusalem were deeply affected by the events surrounding Judas Iscariot's betrayal and subsequent death. The widespread knowledge of these events led them to name the field Aceldama, indicating a collective memory of the tragedy and its impact on their community.
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