Acts 21:39
New International Version
Paul answered, “I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Please let me speak to the people.”

New Living Translation
“No,” Paul replied, “I am a Jew and a citizen of Tarsus in Cilicia, which is an important city. Please, let me talk to these people.”

English Standard Version
Paul replied, “I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no obscure city. I beg you, permit me to speak to the people.”

Berean Standard Bible
But Paul answered, “I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Now I beg you to allow me to speak to the people.”

Berean Literal Bible
But Paul said, "I am indeed a Jew, a man of Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city. Now I implore you, allow me to speak to the people."

King James Bible
But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.

New King James Version
But Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus, in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city; and I implore you, permit me to speak to the people.”

New American Standard Bible
But Paul said, “I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.”

NASB 1995
But Paul said, “I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.”

NASB 1977
But Paul said, “I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.”

Legacy Standard Bible
But Paul said, “I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.”

Amplified Bible
Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia (Mersin Province, Turkey), a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.”

Christian Standard Bible
Paul said, “I am a Jewish man from Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of an important city. Now I ask you, let me speak to the people.”

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Paul said, “I am a Jewish man from Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of an important city. Now I ask you, let me speak to the people.”

American Standard Version
But Paul said, I am a Jew, of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and I beseech thee, give me leave to speak unto the people.

Contemporary English Version
"No!" Paul replied. "I am a Jew from Tarsus, an important city in Cilicia. Please let me speak to the crowd."

English Revised Version
But Paul said, I am a Jew, of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and I beseech thee, give me leave to speak unto the people.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Paul answered, "I'm a Jew, a citizen from the well-known city of Tarsus in Cilicia. I'm asking you to let me talk to the people."

Good News Translation
Paul answered, "I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of an important city. Please let me speak to the people."

International Standard Version
Paul replied, "I'm a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city. Please let me speak to the people."

Majority Standard Bible
But Paul answered, ?I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Now I beg you to allow me to speak to the people.?

NET Bible
Paul answered, "I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of an important city. Please allow me to speak to the people."

New Heart English Bible
But Paul said, "I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city. I beg you, allow me to speak to the people."

Webster's Bible Translation
But Paul said, I am a man who am a Jew of Tarsus, a city of Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and I beseech thee suffer me to speak to the people.

Weymouth New Testament
"I am a Jew," replied Paul, "belonging to Tarsus in Cilicia, and am a citizen of no unimportant city. Give me leave, I pray you, to speak to the people."

World English Bible
But Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city. I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.”
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And Paul said, “I, indeed, am a man, a Jew, of Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I implore you, permit me to speak to the people.”

Berean Literal Bible
But Paul said, "I am indeed a Jew, a man of Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city. Now I implore you, allow me to speak to the people."

Young's Literal Translation
And Paul said, 'I, indeed, am a man, a Jew, of Tarsus of Cilicia, of no mean city a citizen; and I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.'

Smith's Literal Translation
And Paul said, I am truly a man a Jew, a Tarsean of Cilicia, a citizen of no undistinguished city: and I beseech of thee to give way for me to speak to the people.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
But Paul said to him: I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city. And I beseech thee, suffer me to speak to the people.

Catholic Public Domain Version
But Paul said to him: “I am a man, indeed a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of a well-known city. So I petition you, permit me to speak to the people.”

New American Bible
Paul answered, “I am a Jew, of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city; I request you to permit me to speak to the people.”

New Revised Standard Version
Paul replied, “I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of an important city; I beg you, let me speak to the people.”
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
But Paul said, I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cili’cia, a citizen of a well-known city: I beg you, permit me to speak to the people.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
Paulus said to him, “I am a man, a Jew from Tarsus, the notable city of Qiliqia in which I was born. I beg of you, let me speak to the people.”
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
But Paul replied: I am a Jew of Tarsus of Cilicia, a citizen of no unknown city; and I beseech you, permit me to speak to the people.

Godbey New Testament
But Paul said, I am indeed a Jewish man, a Tarsean, a citizen of Cilicia, no mean city: but, I pray you, permit me to speak to the people.

Haweis New Testament
But Paul replied, I am indeed a Jew, a man of Tarsus, of Cilicia, a citizen of no contemptible city: and, I entreat thee, permit me to speak to the people.

Mace New Testament
Paul replied, I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of that famous city: and I beg you would give me leave to speak to the people: which being granted,

Weymouth New Testament
"I am a Jew," replied Paul, "belonging to Tarsus in Cilicia, and am a citizen of no unimportant city. Give me leave, I pray you, to speak to the people."

Worrell New Testament
But Paul said, "I am a Jew, of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city; and I beseech you, permit me to speak to the people."

Worsley New Testament
But Paul said, I am indeed a Jew, a man of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and I beg thou wouldest permit me to speak to the people.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Paul Speaks to the People
38“Aren’t you the Egyptian who incited a rebellion some time ago and led four thousand members of the ‘Assassins’ into the wilderness?” 39But Paul answered, “I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Now I beg you to allow me to speak to the people.” 40Having received permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. A great hush came over the crowd, and he addressed them in Hebrew:…

Cross References
Philippians 3:5
circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin; a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee;

2 Corinthians 11:22
Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I.

Acts 9:11
“Get up!” the Lord told him. “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying.

Acts 22:3
“I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but raised in this city. I was educated at the feet of Gamaliel in strict conformity to the law of our fathers. I was just as zealous for God as any of you are today.

Acts 6:9
But resistance arose from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen, including Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and men from the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. They disputed with Stephen,

Acts 9:30
When the brothers learned of this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.

Acts 11:25-26
Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, / and when he found him, he brought him back to Antioch. So for a full year they met together with the church and taught large numbers of people. The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch.

Acts 13:1
Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch), and Saul.

Acts 15:23
and sent them with this letter: The apostles and the elders, your brothers, To the brothers among the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia: Greetings.

Acts 18:3
and he stayed and worked with them because they were tentmakers by trade, just as he was.

Acts 18:19
When they reached Ephesus, Paul left Priscilla and Aquila. He himself went into the synagogue there and reasoned with the Jews.

Acts 19:1
While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the interior and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples

Acts 19:21
After these things had happened, Paul resolved in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem, passing through Macedonia and Achaia. “After I have been there,” he said, “I must see Rome as well.”

Acts 20:16
Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus to avoid spending time in the province of Asia, because he was in a hurry to reach Jerusalem, if possible, by the day of Pentecost.

Acts 23:34
The governor read the letter and asked what province Paul was from. Learning that he was from Cilicia,


Treasury of Scripture

But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech you, suffer me to speak to the people.

I am.

Acts 9:11,30
And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, …

Acts 22:3
I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.

Acts 23:34
And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia;

Cilicia.

Acts 6:9
Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.

Acts 15:23,41
And they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia: …

a citizen.

Acts 16:37
But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.

Acts 22:25-29
And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned? …

Acts 23:27
This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then came I with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman.

suffer.

Acts 21:37
And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek?

1 Peter 3:15
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

1 Peter 4:15,16
But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters…

Jump to Previous
Allow Beg Belonging Beseech Cilicia Cili'cia Citizen City Indeed Insignificant Jew Leave Mean Ordinary Paul People Please Request Speak Suffer Tarsus Unimportant
Jump to Next
Allow Beg Belonging Beseech Cilicia Cili'cia Citizen City Indeed Insignificant Jew Leave Mean Ordinary Paul People Please Request Speak Suffer Tarsus Unimportant
Acts 21
1. Paul calls at the house of Philip, whose daughters prophesy.
10. Agabus, foretelling what should befall him at Jerusalem,
13. he will not be dissuaded from going thither.
17. He comes to Jerusalem;
27. where he is apprehended, and in great danger, but by the chief captain is rescued;
37. and requests, and is permitted to speak to the people.














But Paul replied
The phrase "But Paul replied" indicates a response, suggesting a dialogue or confrontation. In the context of Acts 21, Paul is addressing a Roman commander after being seized by a mob. The Greek word for "replied" (ἀπεκρίθη) implies a reasoned answer, reflecting Paul's calm and composed demeanor despite the chaos. This highlights Paul's ability to remain articulate and persuasive under pressure, a testament to his character and divine calling.

I am a Jew
Paul's declaration, "I am a Jew," is significant in affirming his ethnic and religious identity. The Greek term "Ἰουδαῖος" (Ioudaios) underscores his heritage and connection to the Jewish people, which is crucial in understanding his mission and the tensions he faced. This statement serves as a bridge between his Jewish roots and his mission to the Gentiles, emphasizing his unique role in God's plan.

from Tarsus in Cilicia
By stating he is "from Tarsus in Cilicia," Paul identifies his birthplace, which was a prominent city in the Roman province of Cilicia. Tarsus was known for its intellectual and cultural significance, often compared to Athens and Alexandria. This background provided Paul with a diverse cultural perspective and education, equipping him for his missionary journeys and interactions with various peoples.

a citizen of no ordinary city
The phrase "a citizen of no ordinary city" highlights Tarsus's status and prestige. The Greek word "πολίτης" (polites) for "citizen" indicates a sense of belonging and rights within a community. Paul's citizenship in such a notable city would afford him certain privileges and respect, which he strategically uses to his advantage in his ministry and legal defenses.

And I beg you
Paul's use of "And I beg you" demonstrates humility and respect towards the Roman commander. The Greek verb "δέομαι" (deomai) conveys a sense of earnest pleading or request. This approach reflects Paul's wisdom in dealing with authority figures, showing that he is not confrontational but seeks to engage in dialogue and share his message peacefully.

let me speak to the people
Finally, "let me speak to the people" reveals Paul's unwavering commitment to his mission. Despite the hostility he faced, his desire to communicate with the crowd underscores his dedication to spreading the Gospel. The Greek word "λαλέω" (laleo) for "speak" implies not just talking, but delivering a message with purpose. This moment exemplifies Paul's courage and determination to fulfill his calling, regardless of the circumstances.

(39) A citizen of no mean city.--The boast was quite a legitimate one. In addition to all its fame for culture, the town of Tarsus bore on its coins the word METROPOLIS-AUTONOMOS (Independent).

Verse 39. - I am a Jew for I am a man which am a Jew, A.V.; in for a city in, A.V.; give me leave for suffer me, A.V. A citizen of no mean city; οὐκ ἀσήμου πόλεως, an elegant classical expression. Οὐκ ἄσημος Ἐλλήνων πόλις (Euripides, 'Ion.,' 8).

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
But
δὲ (de)
Conjunction
Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc.

Paul
Παῦλος (Paulos)
Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3972: Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle.

answered,
Εἶπεν (Eipen)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 2036: Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.

“I
Ἐγὼ (Egō)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1473: I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.

am
εἰμι (eimi)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1510: I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.

a Jew
Ἰουδαῖος (Ioudaios)
Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2453: Jewish. From Iouda; Judaean, i.e. Belonging to Jehudah.

from Tarsus
Ταρσεὺς (Tarseus)
Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 5018: Belonging to Tarsus, a Tarsian. From Tarsos; a Tarsean, i.e. Native of Tarsus.

in Cilicia,
Κιλικίας (Kilikias)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 2791: Probably of foreign origin; Cilicia, a region of Asia Minor.

a citizen [of]
πολίτης (politēs)
Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 4177: A citizen, fellow-citizen. From polis; a townsman.

no
οὐκ (ouk)
Adverb
Strong's 3756: No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.

ordinary
ἀσήμου (asēmou)
Adjective - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 767: (lit: unmarked, unstamped), undistinguished, obscure, unknown. Unmarked, i.e. ignoble.

city.
πόλεως (poleōs)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 4172: A city, the inhabitants of a city. Probably from the same as polemos, or perhaps from polus; a town.

Now
δέ (de)
Conjunction
Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc.

I beg
δέομαι (deomai)
Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1189: To want for myself; I want, need; I beg, request, beseech, pray. Middle voice of deo; to beg, i.e. Petition.

you
σου (sou)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

to allow
ἐπίτρεψόν (epitrepson)
Verb - Aorist Imperative Active - 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 2010: To turn to, commit, entrust; I allow, yield, permit. From epi and the base of trope; to turn over, i.e. Allow.

me
μοι (moi)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1473: I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.

to speak
λαλῆσαι (lalēsai)
Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active
Strong's 2980: A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words.

to
πρὸς (pros)
Preposition
Strong's 4314: To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.

the
τὸν (ton)
Article - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

people.?
λαόν (laon)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2992: Apparently a primary word; a people.


Links
Acts 21:39 NIV
Acts 21:39 NLT
Acts 21:39 ESV
Acts 21:39 NASB
Acts 21:39 KJV

Acts 21:39 BibleApps.com
Acts 21:39 Biblia Paralela
Acts 21:39 Chinese Bible
Acts 21:39 French Bible
Acts 21:39 Catholic Bible

NT Apostles: Acts 21:39 But Paul said I am a Jew (Acts of the Apostles Ac)
Acts 21:38
Top of Page
Top of Page