Acts 26:2 (KJV)

What does Acts 26:2 mean?

Acts 26:2 shows Paul beginning his defense before King Agrippa. Paul considers the opportunity a fortunate one because he can respond in person to the accusations brought against him by fellow Jews.

Paul opens with respect rather than with the details of his case. His address also draws attention to his audience: Agrippa’s familiarity with Jewish customs and questions will matter to Paul’s explanation, as Paul says in the next verse.

The Greek behind Acts 26:2

• “happy” — μακάριος (makarios): This word can mean fortunate or blessed. Here it suggests that Paul regards his chance to speak before Agrippa as favorable, not merely that he feels cheerful.
• “think” — ἡγέομαι (hēgeomai): This word can mean to consider or regard something in a particular way. Paul presents his “happy” position as his own assessment of the opportunity.
• “answer for myself” — ἀπολογέομαι (apologeomai): This word carries the sense of making a defense or giving an answer to a charge. It points to a public response to accusations, rather than an apology in the modern sense of saying sorry.

Why Acts 26:2 matters

• Paul’s opening is part of a formal hearing. Agrippa has just permitted Paul to speak for himself, and Paul begins by addressing the king directly.
• The accusations provide the reason for Paul’s speech. The phrase “touching all the things whereof I am accused” shows that his remarks will respond to the charges against him.
• Paul’s reference to “the Jews” identifies his accusers, not all Jewish people. Paul himself was Jewish, as his account later makes clear.