Topical Bible: Shrine: An Idolatrous Symbol of the Temple of Diana (Artemis)

◄ Shrine: An Idolatrous Symbol of the Temple of Diana (Artemis) ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the ancient world, shrines were often erected as places of worship and veneration for various deities. One of the most notable examples of such a shrine is the Temple of Diana, also known as Artemis, located in Ephesus. This temple was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and served as a major center for pagan worship.

The Temple of Diana was not merely a place of religious activity but also a symbol of the idolatrous practices that were prevalent in the Greco-Roman world. The worship of Diana, or Artemis, was deeply entrenched in the culture of Ephesus, and the temple itself was a focal point for pilgrims and worshippers from across the region. The Apostle Paul encountered the influence of this shrine during his missionary journeys, as recorded in the Book of Acts.

In Acts 19:24-27 , we read about Demetrius, a silversmith who made silver shrines of Artemis, stirring up a riot against Paul. Demetrius expressed concern that Paul's teachings were turning people away from idol worship, threatening the trade and the reverence for the temple: "Men, you know that this business is our source of prosperity. And you can see and hear that not only in Ephesus but in nearly the whole province of Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away a great number of people. He says that man-made gods are no gods at all. There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited and her majesty deposed, she who is worshiped by all the province of Asia and the world."

The shrine of Diana was emblematic of the spiritual blindness that the early Christians sought to address. The worship of idols, represented by such shrines, was seen as a direct violation of the First Commandment, which prohibits the worship of other gods (Exodus 20:3-5). The early church fathers and apostles consistently taught against idolatry, emphasizing the worship of the one true God.

The presence of the shrine in Ephesus also highlights the cultural and spiritual challenges faced by the early church. The allure of idolatry was strong, and the economic implications of abandoning such practices were significant. Yet, the message of the Gospel called for a radical departure from these traditions, urging believers to turn from idols to serve the living and true God (1 Thessalonians 1:9).

In conclusion, the shrine of Diana in Ephesus serves as a historical reminder of the pervasive nature of idolatry in the ancient world and the transformative power of the Gospel. It underscores the conflict between the worship of created things and the call to worship the Creator, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative.

Nave's Topical Index

Acts 19:24
For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain to the craftsmen;
Nave's Topical Index