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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Acts 21:37 As they were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the commander, "May I say something to you?" "Do you speak Greek?" he replied.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/acts/21-37.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/20/44_Act_21_37.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Acts 21:37 - Paul Speaks to the People" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="As they were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the commander, May I say something to you? 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Then he was saying, "Do you know Greek? <a href="/kjv/acts/21.htm">King James Bible</a> 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? <a href="/nkjv/acts/21.htm">New King James Version</a> Then as Paul was about to be led into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I speak to you?” He replied, “Can you speak Greek? <a href="/nasb_/acts/21.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I say something to you?” And he said, “Do you know Greek? <a href="/nasb/acts/21.htm">NASB 1995</a> As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he said to the commander, &#8220May I say something to you?&#8221 And he said, &#8220Do you know Greek? <a href="/nasb77/acts/21.htm">NASB 1977 </a> And as Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I say something to you?” And he said, “Do you know Greek? <a href="/lsb/acts/21.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I say something to you?” And he said, “Do you know Greek? <a href="/amp/acts/21.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Just as Paul was about to be taken into the barracks, he asked the commander, “May I say something to you?” And the man replied, “Do you know Greek? <a href="/csb/acts/21.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> As he was about to be brought into the barracks, Paul said to the commander, “Am I allowed to say something to you? ” He replied, “You know how to speak Greek? <a href="/hcsb/acts/21.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> As he was about to be brought into the barracks, Paul said to the commander, &#8220Am I allowed to say something to you?&#8221 He replied, &#8220Do you know Greek? <a href="/asv/acts/21.htm">American Standard Version</a> And as Paul was about to be brought into the castle, he saith unto the chief captain, May I say something unto thee? And he said, Dost thou know Greek? <a href="/cev/acts/21.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> When Paul was about to be taken into the fortress, he asked the commander, "Can I say something to you?" "How do you know Greek?" the commander asked. <a href="/erv/acts/21.htm">English Revised Version</a> And as Paul was about to be brought into the castle, he saith unto the chief captain, May I say something unto thee? And he said, Dost thou know Greek? <a href="/gwt/acts/21.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> As the soldiers were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the officer, "May I say something to you?" The officer replied to Paul, "Can you speak Greek? <a href="/gnt/acts/21.htm">Good News Translation</a> As the soldiers were about to take Paul into the fort, he spoke to the commander: "May I say something to you?" "You speak Greek, do you?" the commander asked. <a href="/isv/acts/21.htm">International Standard Version</a> Just as Paul was about to be taken into the barracks, he asked the tribune, "May I say something to you?" The tribune asked, "Oh, do you speak Greek? <a href="/msb/acts/21.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> As they were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the commander, ?May I speak to you?? ?Do you speak Greek?? he replied. <a href="/net/acts/21.htm">NET Bible</a> As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he said to the commanding officer, "May I say something to you?" The officer replied, "Do you know Greek? <a href="/nheb/acts/21.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he asked the commanding officer, "May I speak something to you?" He said, "Do you know Greek? <a href="/wbt/acts/21.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said to the chief captain, May I speak to thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek? <a href="/wey/acts/21.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> When he was about to be taken into the barracks, Paul said to the Tribune, "May I speak to you?" "Do you know Greek?" the Tribune asked. <a href="/web/acts/21.htm">World English Bible</a> As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he asked the commanding officer, “May I speak to you?” He said, “Do you know Greek? <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/acts/21.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And Paul being about to be led into the stronghold, says to the chief captain, “Is it permitted to me to say anything to you?” And he said, “Do you know Greek? <a href="/blb/acts/21.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And being about to be brought into the barracks, Paul says to the commander, "Is it permitted to me to say something to you?" Then he was saying, "Do you know Greek? <a href="/ylt/acts/21.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And Paul being about to be led into the castle, saith to the chief captain, 'Is it permitted to me to say anything unto thee?' and he said, 'Greek dost thou know? <a href="/slt/acts/21.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And being about to be brought into the camp, Paul says to the captain of a thousand, Is it lawful for me to speak anything to thee? and he said, Hast thou knowledge in Greek?<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/acts/21.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And as Paul was about to be brought into the castle, he saith to the tribune: May speak something to thee? Who said: Canst thou speak Greek? <a href="/cpdv/acts/21.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And as Paul was beginning to be brought into the fortress, he said to the tribune, “Is it permissible for me to say something to you?” And he said, “You know Greek? <a href="/nabre/acts/21.htm">New American Bible</a> Just as Paul was about to be taken into the compound, he said to the cohort commander, “May I say something to you?” He replied, “Do you speak Greek? <a href="/nrsvce/acts/21.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Just as Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he said to the tribune, “May I say something to you?” The tribune replied, “Do you know Greek?<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/acts/21.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And as Paul was about to be led into headquarters, he said to the chief captain, May I speak to you? The captain said, Can you speak Greek? <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/acts/21.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> And when he approached to enter the encampment, Paulus said to the Chiliarch, “If you allow me, I shall speak with you”, but he said to him, “Do you know Greek?”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/acts/21.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> But as Paul was about to be led into the fortress, he said to the officer: May I speak to you? He replied: Do you understand Greek? <a href="/godbey/acts/21.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> And Paul, being about to be led into the castle, says to the chiliarch, Is it lawful for me to say something to thee? And he said, Do you speak Greek? <a href="/haweis/acts/21.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> And when he was just ready to be carried into the fortress, Paul said to the military tribune, May I be permitted to speak a word to thee? And he said, Dost thou know Greek? <a href="/mace/acts/21.htm">Mace New Testament</a> just as he was entring into the castle, Paul said to the officer, may I be favour'd with a word? you can speak Greek then, said he? <a href="/wey/acts/21.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> When he was about to be taken into the barracks, Paul said to the Tribune, "May I speak to you?" "Do you know Greek?" the Tribune asked. <a href="/worrell/acts/21.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> And, when about to be led into the castle, Paul says to the chief captain, "May I say something to you?" And he said, "Do you know Greek? <a href="/worsley/acts/21.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> And as Paul was going to be led into the castle, he said to the tribune, May I be allowed to speak a word to thee? And he said, Canst thou speak Greek? <a href="/parallel/acts/21-37.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/in5WTRQ9BSQ?start=7297" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/acts/21.htm">Paul Speaks to the People</a> 36For the crowd that followed him kept shouting, “Away with him!” 37<a href="/greek/5037.htm" title="5037: te (Conj) -- And, both. A primary particle of connection or addition; both or also.">As</a> <a href="/greek/3195.htm" title="3195: Mellōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- A strengthened form of melo; to intend, i.e. Be about to be, do, or suffer something.">they were about</a> <a href="/greek/1521.htm" title="1521: eisagesthai (V-PNM/P) -- To lead in, bring in, introduce. From eis and ago; to introduce.">to take</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3972.htm" title="3972: Paulos (N-NMS) -- Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle.">Paul</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">into</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3925.htm" title="3925: parembolēn (N-AFS) -- From a compound of para and emballo; a throwing in beside, i.e., battle-array, encampment or barracks.">barracks,</a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: legei (V-PIA-3S) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. ">he asked</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tō (Art-DMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/5506.htm" title="5506: chiliarchō (N-DMS) -- A commander of a thousand men, a military tribune. From chilioi and archo; the commander of a thousand soldiers">commander,</a> <a href="/greek/1487.htm" title="1487: Ei (Conj) -- If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc.">“</a> <a href="/greek/1832.htm" title="1832: exestin (V-PIA-3S) -- It is permitted, lawful, possible. ">May</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: moi (PPro-D1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">I</a> <a href="/greek/2036.htm" title="2036: eipein (V-ANA) -- Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.">say</a> <a href="/greek/5100.htm" title="5100: ti (IPro-ANS) -- Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object.">something</a> <a href="/greek/4314.htm" title="4314: pros (Prep) -- To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.">to</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: se (PPro-A2S) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you?”</a> <a href="/greek/1097.htm" title="1097: ginōskeis (V-PIA-2S) -- A prolonged form of a primary verb; to know in a great variety of applications and with many implications.">“Do you speak</a> <a href="/greek/1676.htm" title="1676: Hellēnisti (Adv) -- In the Greek language. Adverb from the same as Hellenistes; Hellenistically, i.e. In the Grecian language.">Greek?”</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: Ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">he</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/5346.htm" title="5346: ephē (V-IIA-3S) -- To say, declare. Properly, the same as the base of phos and phaino; to show or make known one's thoughts, i.e. Speak or say.">replied.</a> 38“Aren’t you the Egyptian who incited a rebellion some time ago and led four thousand members of the ‘Assassins’ into the wilderness?”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/acts/22-2.htm">Acts 22:2-3</a> When they heard him speak to them in Hebrew, they became even more silent. Then Paul declared, / “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. <a href="/acts/9-29.htm">Acts 9:29</a> He talked and debated with the Grecian Jews, but they tried to kill him. <a href="/acts/26-14.htm">Acts 26:14</a> We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice say to me in Hebrew, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’ <a href="/acts/9-27.htm">Acts 9:27</a> Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and described how Saul had seen the Lord, who had spoken to him on the road to Damascus, and how Saul had spoken boldly in that city in the name of Jesus. <a href="/acts/22-25.htm">Acts 22:25-28</a> But as they stretched him out to strap him down, Paul said to the centurion standing there, “Is it lawful for you to flog a Roman citizen without a trial?” / On hearing this, the centurion went and reported it to the commander. “What are you going to do?” he said. “This man is a Roman citizen.” / The commander went to Paul and asked, “Tell me, are you a Roman citizen?” “Yes,” he answered. ... <a href="/acts/23-34.htm">Acts 23:34</a> The governor read the letter and asked what province Paul was from. Learning that he was from Cilicia, <a href="/acts/25-10.htm">Acts 25:10-12</a> Paul replied, “I am standing before the judgment seat of Caesar, where I ought to be tried. I have done nothing wrong to the Jews, as you yourself know very well. / If, however, I am guilty of anything worthy of death, I do not refuse to die. But if there is no truth to their accusations against me, no one has the right to hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!” / Then Festus conferred with his council and replied, “You have appealed to Caesar. To Caesar you will go!” <a href="/acts/16-37.htm">Acts 16:37-38</a> But Paul said to the officers, “They beat us publicly without a trial and threw us into prison, even though we are Roman citizens. And now do they want to send us away secretly? Absolutely not! Let them come themselves and escort us out!” / So the officers relayed this message to the magistrates, who were alarmed to hear that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens. <a href="/acts/19-30.htm">Acts 19:30</a> Paul wanted to go before the assembly, but the disciples would not allow him. <a href="/acts/24-10.htm">Acts 24:10</a> When the governor motioned for Paul to speak, he began his response: “Knowing that you have been a judge over this nation for many years, I gladly make my defense. <a href="/acts/25-16.htm">Acts 25:16</a> I told them that it is not the Roman custom to hand a man over before he has had an opportunity to face his accusers and defend himself against their charges. <a href="/acts/26-1.htm">Acts 26:1</a> Agrippa said to Paul, “You have permission to speak for yourself.” Then Paul stretched out his hand and began his defense: <a href="/acts/28-17.htm">Acts 28:17</a> After three days, he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, I was taken prisoner in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. <a href="/acts/13-16.htm">Acts 13:16</a> Paul stood up, motioned with his hand, and began to speak: “Men of Israel and you Gentiles who fear God, listen to me! <a href="/acts/17-22.htm">Acts 17:22</a> Then Paul stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said, “Men of Athens, I see that in every way you are very religious.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said to the chief captain, May I speak to you? Who said, Can you speak Greek?<a href="/acts/21-19.htm">Acts 21:19</a> And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.<a href="/acts/19-30.htm">Acts 19:30</a> And when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not.<a href="/matthew/10-18.htm">Matthew 10:18-20</a> And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/acts/14-16.htm">Allowed</a> <a href="/acts/21-34.htm">Barracks</a> <a href="/acts/15-16.htm">Building</a> <a href="/acts/21-33.htm">Captain</a> <a href="/acts/21-34.htm">Castle</a> <a href="/acts/21-33.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/acts/21-33.htm">Chiliarch</a> <a href="/acts/21-34.htm">Commander</a> <a href="/acts/21-33.htm">Commanding</a> <a href="/zechariah/9-12.htm">Fortress</a> <a href="/acts/17-12.htm">Greek</a> <a href="/acts/19-26.htm">Led</a> <a href="/acts/21-33.htm">Officer</a> <a href="/acts/21-35.htm">Paul</a> <a href="/acts/16-21.htm">Permitted</a> <a href="/acts/21-35.htm">Soldiers</a> <a href="/acts/18-14.htm">Something</a> <a href="/acts/19-37.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/acts/21-34.htm">Tribune</a> <a href="/acts/19-15.htm">You</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/acts/21-40.htm">Allowed</a> <a href="/acts/22-24.htm">Barracks</a> <a href="/acts/22-24.htm">Building</a> <a href="/acts/22-24.htm">Captain</a> <a href="/acts/22-24.htm">Castle</a> <a href="/acts/22-24.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/acts/22-26.htm">Chiliarch</a> <a href="/acts/22-24.htm">Commander</a> <a href="/acts/22-24.htm">Commanding</a> <a href="/acts/22-24.htm">Fortress</a> <a href="/romans/1-16.htm">Greek</a> <a href="/acts/21-38.htm">Led</a> <a href="/acts/22-24.htm">Officer</a> <a href="/acts/21-39.htm">Paul</a> <a href="/acts/26-1.htm">Permitted</a> <a href="/acts/23-10.htm">Soldiers</a> <a href="/acts/23-15.htm">Something</a> <a href="/acts/21-39.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/acts/22-24.htm">Tribune</a> <a href="/acts/23-18.htm">You</a><div class="vheading2">Acts 21</div>1. <a href="/acts/21-1.htm">Paul calls at the house of Philip, whose daughters prophesy.</a> 10. <a href="/acts/21-10.htm">Agabus, foretelling what should befall him at Jerusalem, </a> 13. <a href="/acts/21-13.htm">he will not be dissuaded from going thither.</a> 17. <a href="/acts/21-17.htm">He comes to Jerusalem;</a> 27. <a href="/acts/21-27.htm">where he is apprehended, and in great danger, but by the chief captain is rescued;</a> 37. <a href="/acts/21-37.htm">and requests, and is permitted to speak to the people.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/acts/21.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/acts/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/acts/21.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>As they were about to take Paul into the barracks This phrase indicates a moment of tension and transition. Paul is being taken into the barracks, which were part of the Antonia Fortress in Jerusalem, a Roman military installation. This location is significant as it was adjacent to the Temple Mount, highlighting the Roman presence and authority in Jerusalem. The barracks served as a place of protection and interrogation, reflecting the Roman practice of maintaining order in occupied territories. This moment follows a tumultuous scene where Paul was nearly killed by a mob, showcasing the volatile atmosphere in Jerusalem at the time.he asked the commander Paul's interaction with the Roman commander, or tribune, shows his strategic approach in dealing with authority. The commander, identified later as Claudius Lysias, held significant power and was responsible for maintaining peace. Paul's request to speak demonstrates his boldness and wisdom in navigating complex situations. This interaction also highlights the Roman legal system's role in providing Paul a platform to defend himself, a recurring theme in Acts.“May I say something to you?” Paul's polite request to speak is notable for its respect and formality, reflecting his Roman citizenship and understanding of protocol. This approach contrasts with the chaos of the preceding events and underscores Paul's ability to remain composed under pressure. His request sets the stage for his defense and testimony, a key aspect of his mission to spread the Gospel.“Do you speak Greek?” he replied. The commander's surprise at Paul's ability to speak Greek reveals assumptions about Paul's identity. Greek was the lingua franca of the Eastern Roman Empire, used in administration and trade. The commander's question suggests he initially mistook Paul for an uneducated troublemaker. Paul's fluency in Greek not only challenges these assumptions but also aligns with his role as an apostle to the Gentiles, emphasizing his cultural adaptability and the universal nature of the Gospel. This moment also foreshadows Paul's later defenses before Roman authorities, where his linguistic skills and Roman citizenship play crucial roles.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle and missionary, known for his extensive travels and letters to early Christian communities. In this passage, he is being taken into custody. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_commander.htm">The Commander</a> A Roman military officer responsible for maintaining order. He is surprised by Paul's ability to speak Greek, indicating a level of education and cultural awareness. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_barracks.htm">The Barracks</a> A military facility where Paul is being taken. This setting highlights the tension and potential danger Paul faces. 4. <a href="/topical/j/jerusalem.htm">Jerusalem</a> The city where this event takes place, a central location for Jewish worship and a site of significant tension between Jews and early Christians. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_crowd.htm">The Crowd</a> The group of people who have been stirred up against Paul, leading to his arrest. Their hostility reflects the broader conflict between Jewish traditions and the emerging Christian faith.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/c/cultural_awareness_in_ministry.htm">Cultural Awareness in Ministry</a> Paul's ability to speak Greek demonstrates the importance of understanding and engaging with different cultures in ministry. Christians today are called to be culturally aware and sensitive in their evangelistic efforts. <a href="/topical/c/courage_in_the_face_of_opposition.htm">Courage in the Face of Opposition</a> Despite being arrested, Paul remains calm and respectful, seeking to communicate effectively with the authorities. Believers are encouraged to maintain their composure and witness even in challenging circumstances. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_language.htm">The Power of Language</a> Language can be a powerful tool for connection and ministry. Paul's use of Greek opens a door for dialogue with the Roman commander. Christians should consider how they can use language to bridge gaps and share the Gospel. <a href="/topical/g/god's_sovereignty_in_difficult_situations.htm">God's Sovereignty in Difficult Situations</a> Even in the midst of arrest and potential danger, God is at work. Paul's situation reminds believers that God can use any circumstance for His purposes and glory.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_acts_21.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Acts 21</a> <a href="/q/acts_23__is_claudius_lysias_accurate.htm">Acts 23 - Are the Roman legal procedures and the role of the commander, Claudius Lysias, accurately portrayed compared to known historical records?</a> <a href="/q/was_paul,_a_jew,_fluent_in_greek.htm">Acts 21:37–40 – How plausible is it that Paul, a “Jew of Tarsus,” was fluent in Greek and immediately recognized as such by a Roman commander?</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_a_patron_saint.htm">What defines being a servant of Christ?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_the_donation_of_constantine.htm">Should reparations for slavery be paid?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/acts/21.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(37) Canst thou speak Greek?--The chiliarch apparently expected his prisoner to have spoken Hebrew, i.e., Aramaic, and was surprised to hear Greek; the people expected Greek, and were surprised at Hebrew (<a href="/acts/22-2.htm" title="(And when they heard that he spoke in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he said,)">Acts 22:2</a>). Nothing could better illustrate the familiarity of the population of Jerusalem with both languages.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/acts/21.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 37. - About to be brought for to be led, A.V.; saith for said, A.V.; say something for speak, A.V,; and he for who, A.V.; dost thou know for canst thou speak, A.V. About to be brought into the castle. He had nearly reached the top of the stairs, and there was, perhaps, a brief halt while the gates of the castle-yard were being opened. Paul seized the opportunity to address Lysias in Greek. Dost thou know Greek? (Ἑλληνιστὶ γινώσκεις;). According to some, λαλεῖν is to be understood, "Dost thou know how to speak Greek?" after the analogy of Λαλοῦντες Ἀζωτιστί, and Οὐκ εἰσὶν ἐπιγινώσκοντες λαλεῖν Ιουδαι'στί, in <a href="/nehemiah/13-24.htm">Nehemiah 13:24</a>. But others (Meyer, Alford, etc.) say that there is no ellipse of λαλεῖν, but that Ἐλληνιστὶ γινώσκειν Συριστὶ ἐπισταμένους (Xenophon), "Graece nescire" (Cicero), mean to know or not to know the Greek and Syrian languages. <a href="/commentaries/acts/21-37.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>[As] τε (te) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_5037.htm">Strong's 5037: </a> And, both. A primary particle of connection or addition; both or also. they were about Μέλλων (Mellōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3195.htm">Strong's 3195: </a> A strengthened form of melo; to intend, i.e. Be about to be, do, or suffer something. to take εἰσάγεσθαι (eisagesthai) Verb - Present Infinitive Middle or Passive <a href="/greek/strongs_1521.htm">Strong's 1521: </a> To lead in, bring in, introduce. From eis and ago; to introduce. Paul Παῦλος (Paulos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3972.htm">Strong's 3972: </a> Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle. into εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. the τὴν (tēn) Article - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. barracks, παρεμβολὴν (parembolēn) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3925.htm">Strong's 3925: </a> From a compound of para and emballo; a throwing in beside, i.e., battle-array, encampment or barracks. he asked λέγει (legei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3004.htm">Strong's 3004: </a> (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. the τῷ (tō) Article - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. commander, χιλιάρχῳ (chiliarchō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5506.htm">Strong's 5506: </a> A commander of a thousand men, a military tribune. From chilioi and archo; the commander of a thousand soldiers “May ἔξεστίν (exestin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1832.htm">Strong's 1832: </a> It is permitted, lawful, possible. I μοι (moi) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. say εἰπεῖν (eipein) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_2036.htm">Strong's 2036: </a> Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say. something τι (ti) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5100.htm">Strong's 5100: </a> Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object. to πρὸς (pros) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4314.htm">Strong's 4314: </a> To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward. you?” σέ (se) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. “Do you speak γινώσκεις (ginōskeis) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1097.htm">Strong's 1097: </a> A prolonged form of a primary verb; to 'know' in a great variety of applications and with many implications. Greek?” Ἑλληνιστὶ (Hellēnisti) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_1676.htm">Strong's 1676: </a> In the Greek language. Adverb from the same as Hellenistes; Hellenistically, i.e. In the Grecian language. [he] Ὁ (Ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. replied. ἔφη (ephē) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5346.htm">Strong's 5346: </a> To say, declare. Properly, the same as the base of phos and phaino; to show or make known one's thoughts, i.e. Speak or say. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/acts/21-37.htm">NT Apostles: Acts 21:37 As Paul was about to be brought (Acts of the Apostles Ac) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/acts/21-36.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Acts 21:36"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Acts 21:36" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/acts/21-38.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Acts 21:38"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Acts 21:38" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>