King James Version

What Does Acts 21:9 Mean?

Acts 21:9 in the King James Version says “And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy. — study this verse from Acts chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.

Acts 21:9 · KJV


Context

7

And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.

8

And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.

9

And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.

10

And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.

11

And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The mention of Philip's 'four daughters which did prophesy' highlights the Spirit's distribution of gifts regardless of gender. The Greek 'propheteuō' indicates they regularly exercised prophetic gifting, though within the ordered structure Paul elsewhere describes. This demonstrates the early church's recognition of women's Spirit-empowered ministry within appropriate boundaries.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Prophetic gifting among women was predicted by Joel (Joel 2:28-29) and affirmed at Pentecost. These daughters likely ministered within the Caesarean church community, continuing the Old Testament tradition of prophetesses like Deborah and Huldah.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does your church recognize and encourage diverse spiritual gifts while maintaining biblical order?
  2. What does this passage teach about the Holy Spirit's distribution of gifts across all believers?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 7 words
τούτῳ1 of 7

the same man

G5129

to (in, with or by) this (person or thing)

δὲ2 of 7

And

G1161

but, and, etc

ἦσαν3 of 7

had

G2258

i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

θυγατέρες4 of 7

daughters

G2364

a female child, or (by hebraism) descendant (or inhabitant)

παρθένοι5 of 7

virgins

G3933

a maiden; by implication, an unmarried daughter

τέσσαρες6 of 7

four

G5064

four

προφητεύουσαι7 of 7

which did prophesy

G4395

to foretell events, divine, speak under inspiration, exercise the prophetic office


Study Guide

Historical Context

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.

Theological Significance

Acts 21:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Acts 21:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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