King James Version

What Does Acts 8:30 Mean?

“And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?”

Context

Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.

Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.

And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?

And he said, How can I , except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.

The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(30) **Understandest thou what thou readest?**—The Greek play upon the word for understand (*Ginôskein*) and read (*Anaginôskein*) cannot well be produced in English, but is worth noting as parallel to a like play in the well-known saying of the Emperor Julian (*Anegnôn; egnôn; kategnôn*)—“I read; I understood; I condemned.”

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 8:30 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.