New Testament
Acts 19:35
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When the city clerk had quieted the crowd, he said, "People of Ephesus, who doesn't know that the city of Ephesus is the guardian of the temple of the great goddess Artemis and of the image that fell from heaven?
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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?
What Acts 19:35 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, the city clerk of Ephesus steps in to calm a chaotic crowd. He reminds the people of their city's pride in the temple dedicated to Artemis, a significant figure in their culture. The clerk emphasizes that everyone knows Ephesus is the protector of this temple and the miraculous image that supposedly fell from the sky. His words serve to reinforce the importance of their beliefs and the city's identity. By addressing the crowd, he aims to restore order and prevent further unrest. This highlights the deep connection between the people and their goddess, showcasing how their identity is intertwined with their worship. The clerk's statement is not just about the temple; it reflects the values and unity of the Ephesians. It’s a reminder of how communities can rally around shared beliefs and traditions, even in times of conflict. His role is crucial in maintaining peace and reminding everyone of their common heritage and pride in their city’s legacy. This moment captures the essence of cultural identity and the power of shared beliefs.
How to apply Acts 19:35 to your life
Consider what aspects of your identity are tied to your community and beliefs. Reflect on how these connections shape your actions and relationships. Just as the Ephesians rallied around their goddess, find strength in your community and shared values to navigate challenges in life. Embrace your heritage and the unity it brings with others around you. This can foster a sense of belonging and purpose in your life journey.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: “Great Is Artemis” (Acts 19:23–41)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
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Key themes
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 Acts 19:35 mean?
Acts 19:35 describes how the city clerk of Ephesus calms a crowd by reminding them of their city's pride in the temple of Artemis. He emphasizes the significance of their cultural identity and the importance of maintaining order during a time of unrest.
What is the significance of Artemis in Acts 19:35?
In Acts 19:35, Artemis is portrayed as a central figure in Ephesus, symbolizing the city's cultural identity and religious devotion. The mention of her temple highlights the community's pride and the role of shared beliefs in uniting the people.
How does Acts 19:35 relate to community identity?
Acts 19:35 highlights how the people of Ephesus rally around their worship of Artemis, showcasing the deep connection between their identity and shared beliefs. It reflects the importance of cultural heritage in fostering unity and pride within a community.
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