King James Version
Acts 19:34 in the King James Version says “But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the E...” — study this verse from Acts chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.”
Acts 19:34 · KJV
Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.
And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward . And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people.
But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.
And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter? a worshipper: Gr. the temple keeper
Seeing then that these things cannot be spoken against, ye ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“when they knew”
G1921to know upon some mark, i.e., recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge
“voice”
G5456a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
“with”
G1537a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
“the space”
G1909properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
“cried out”
G2896properly, to "croak" (as a raven) or scream, i.e., (genitive case) to call aloud (shriek, exclaim, intreat)
“is Diana”
G735prompt; artemis, the name of a grecian goddess borrowed by the asiatics for one of their deities
This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Acts 19:34 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Acts 19:34 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge