Acts 19:28 (KJV)

What does Acts 19:28 mean?

Acts 19:28 describes how the crowd in Ephesus became extremely angry when they heard certain statements, and they began shouting together, "Great is Diana of the Ephesians." This verse shows the crowd’s strong emotional reaction and their loyalty to their local goddess, Diana.

The setting is the city of Ephesus, where Paul’s preaching about Jesus was seen as a threat to the worship of Diana (also known as Artemis). The people reacting here are local craftsmen and townsfolk, stirred up by concerns that their religious traditions and livelihoods were in danger. Their loud, unified cry shows both their anger and their pride in their city’s famous goddess.

The Greek behind Acts 19:28

• ὀργή (thymos, transliterated as "thymos"): This word is often translated as "wrath" or "rage." It suggests a deep, passionate anger, not just mild annoyance. The crowd’s reaction was intense and emotional.
• μεγάλη (megas, transliterated as "megas"): Translated as "Great," this word emphasizes the high status and importance the Ephesians placed on Diana. Their chant was both a defense and a declaration of her greatness.
• Διάνα (Diana, transliterated as "Diana"): This is the Greek name for the goddess Artemis, worshipped especially in Ephesus. The specific mention highlights the local context and the religious identity at stake for the crowd.

Why Acts 19:28 matters

• This verse helps clarify just how threatened the local population felt by Paul’s message, which challenged not only their beliefs but also their economy tied to Diana’s temple.
• The strong, unified outcry shows the depth of devotion and identity the Ephesians had with their goddess, explaining why the following events in the chapter escalate so quickly.
• Understanding the crowd’s emotional response gives insight into the social tensions early Christians faced when their teachings confronted established religious and cultural practices.