Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

ACTS 17:34KJV
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Acts 17:34 (KJV)

What does Acts 17:34 mean?

Acts 17:34 describes how, after Paul’s speech in Athens, a few people chose to join him and believe his message. Among these new believers were a man named Dionysius, who was part of the Areopagus council, a woman named Damaris, and some others.

Paul had been speaking in Athens to a group of philosophers and city leaders about Jesus and the resurrection. While many listeners were skeptical or dismissive, this verse highlights that some individuals were convinced and decided to associate themselves with Paul and his teaching. The mention of Dionysius and Damaris by name shows that the message reached people from different backgrounds, including both men and women, and even someone from the respected Areopagus council.

The Greek behind Acts 17:34

  • The word “clave” (κολλάω, kollaō, G2853) means to join closely or stick to. In this context, it suggests that these people not only believed Paul’s message but also made a clear decision to align themselves with him.
  • “Areopagite” (Ἀρεοπαγίτης, Areopagitēs, G698) refers to a member of the Areopagus, the high council of Athens. This detail shows that Paul’s message reached influential and educated people, not just the general public.
  • “Believed” (πιστεύω, pisteuō, G4100) is the usual Greek word for trusting or having faith. Here, it means these individuals accepted Paul’s teaching about Jesus as true.

Why Acts 17:34 matters

  • Acts 17:34 clears up the idea that Paul’s message in Athens was completely rejected; instead, it shows that some people did respond positively, even if the number was small.
  • The verse emphasizes that the gospel could reach people from all walks of life, including respected leaders like Dionysius and women like Damaris, in a city known for its intellectual culture.
  • This verse connects to the wider passage by showing the mixed reactions to Paul’s preaching—some mocked, some were curious, but a few truly believed and joined him, illustrating the varied responses to the Christian message in the ancient world.