But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:

ACTS 8:9KJV
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Acts 8:9 (KJV)

What does Acts 8:9 mean?

Acts 8:9 introduces a man named Simon who had been practicing sorcery in the city of Samaria and amazed the people there, making them believe he was someone important. The verse sets up Simon as a well-known figure who used magical arts to gain influence over the local population.

In this part of Acts, Luke is describing events in Samaria as the early Christian message spreads beyond Jerusalem. Simon is not a follower of Jesus at this point; instead, he is known for his use of "sorcery" and for impressing or deceiving the people into thinking he had great power. This background helps explain why Simon becomes significant in the story that follows, especially as he later encounters the apostles.

The Greek behind Acts 8:9

  • "sorcery" (μαγεύων, mageuōn): This word refers to practicing magic or the occult, often involving tricks or rituals meant to impress or manipulate. In the ancient world, such practices were common and often associated with claims of special power.
  • "bewitched" (ἐξίστημι, existēmi): This word means to amaze, astonish, or even to throw someone into confusion. Here, it suggests that Simon's acts left the people of Samaria deeply impressed or even misled about his true abilities.
  • "people" (ἔθνος, ethnos): This word usually means a group of people or a nation, but here it refers to the population of Samaria, highlighting that Simon's influence was widespread, not just over a few individuals.

Why Acts 8:9 matters

  • Acts 8:9 clarifies that Simon's reputation and influence came from his magical practices, not from any genuine spiritual authority, setting up a contrast with the apostles' message.
  • The verse shows how easily people in Samaria were impressed by displays of power, which helps explain why the arrival of the gospel and true miracles later in the chapter had such a strong impact.
  • Understanding Simon's background is key to grasping the tension and lessons in the following verses, where his encounter with the apostles challenges his view of power and authority.

Where else these words appear

“beforetime” Greek G4391 · used in 2 verses

  • Luke 23:12 And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves.

“Samaria” Greek G4540 · used in 11 verses

  • Luke 17:11 And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.
  • John 4:7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.
  • Acts 8:5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.

“bewitched” Greek G1839 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 12:23 And all the people were amazed, and said, Is not this the son of David?
  • Luke 2:47 And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.
  • Acts 8:11 And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.

“Simon” Greek G4613 · used in 70 verses

  • Matthew 4:18 And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
  • Luke 5:8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.
  • John 18:10 Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus.