Shrine
ArtifactsWhat is the meaning of Shrine in the Bible?
In Acts 19:24, Demetrius the silversmith describes making silver shrines of Artemis, which were likely miniature replicas of the great Temple of Artemis at Ephesus sold to pilgrims and tourists.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding these shrines clarifies the economic stakes behind Paul's ministry in Ephesus, showing how the spread of the gospel directly threatened the livelihood of artisans who profited from the worship of Artemis.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Shrine were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Shrine in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Shrine clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Acts 19:24
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Shrine." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/shrine/