But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.
ACTS 21:39KJVWhat does Acts 21:39 mean?
Acts 21:39 shows Paul identifying himself to a Roman official as a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, emphasizing that he is a citizen of a significant city, and respectfully asking for permission to speak to the gathered crowd. Paul wants the official to know he is not an ordinary troublemaker, but someone with a reputable background who deserves to be heard.
Paul is speaking to the Roman commander who has just arrested him after a riot in Jerusalem. By mentioning Tarsus—a well-known, respected city—Paul highlights his credibility and status. His polite request to address the people shows both his respect for authority and his desire to explain himself to the crowd.
The Greek behind Acts 21:39
- πόλεως (polis, transliterated as "city"): Paul calls Tarsus "no mean city," using a word that often means an important or notable city. This underlines that Paul’s background is respectable and not insignificant.
- πολίτης (polites, transliterated as "citizen"): Paul uses this word to stress his official standing and rights as someone belonging to a prominent city, which could influence how the Roman commander treats him.
- δέομαι (deomai, transliterated as "I beseech"): This word carries a sense of earnest pleading or respectful request, showing Paul’s humility and careful approach in a tense situation.
Why Acts 21:39 matters
- This verse clears up any idea that Paul was a random agitator; he presents himself as someone with a reputable background, which would matter to Roman authorities.
- It highlights Paul’s wisdom in using his identity and citizenship to gain a hearing, showing his practical approach in difficult circumstances.
- The verse connects to the wider passage by setting up Paul’s speech to the crowd, which becomes a turning point in his ministry and legal journey.