Acts 26:3
New International Version
and especially so because you are well acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. Therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently.

New Living Translation
for I know you are an expert on all Jewish customs and controversies. Now please listen to me patiently!

English Standard Version
especially because you are familiar with all the customs and controversies of the Jews. Therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.

Berean Standard Bible
especially since you are acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. I beg you, therefore, to listen to me patiently.

Berean Literal Bible
you being especially acquainted with all the customs and also controversies of the Jews. Therefore I implore you to hear me patiently.

King James Bible
Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

New King James Version
especially because you are expert in all customs and questions which have to do with the Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.

New American Standard Bible
especially because you are an expert in all customs and questions among the Jews; therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.

NASB 1995
especially because you are an expert in all customs and questions among the Jews; therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.

NASB 1977
especially because you are an expert in all customs and questions among the Jews; therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.

Legacy Standard Bible
especially because you are an expert in all customs and questions among the Jews; therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.

Amplified Bible
especially because you are an expert [fully knowledgeable, experienced and unusually conversant] in all the Jewish customs and controversial issues; therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently.

Christian Standard Bible
especially since you are very knowledgeable about all the Jewish customs and controversies. Therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
especially since you are an expert in all the Jewish customs and controversies. Therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.”

American Standard Version
especially because thou art expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

Contemporary English Version
You know a lot about our religious customs and the beliefs that divide us. So I ask you to listen patiently to me.

English Revised Version
especially because thou art expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
I say this since you are especially familiar with every custom and controversy in Judaism. So I ask you to listen patiently to me.

Good News Translation
particularly since you know so well all the Jewish customs and disputes. I ask you, then, to listen to me with patience.

International Standard Version
since you are especially familiar with all the Jewish customs and controversies. I beg you, therefore, to listen patiently to me.

Majority Standard Bible
especially since you are acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. I beg you, therefore, to listen to me patiently.

NET Bible
because you are especially familiar with all the customs and controversial issues of the Jews. Therefore I ask you to listen to me patiently.

New Heart English Bible
especially because you are expert in all customs and questions which are among Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.

Webster's Bible Translation
Especially, because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

Weymouth New Testament
who are so familiar with all the customs and speculations that prevail among the Jews; and for this reason, I pray you, give me a patient hearing.

World English Bible
especially because you are expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
especially knowing you to be acquainted with all things—both customs and questions—among Jews; for this reason, I implore you to hear me patiently.

Berean Literal Bible
you being especially acquainted with all the customs and also controversies of the Jews. Therefore I implore you to hear me patiently.

Young's Literal Translation
especially knowing thee to be acquainted with all things -- both customs and questions -- among Jews; wherefore, I beseech thee, patiently to hear me.

Smith's Literal Translation
Especially thee being judge of all the customs among the Jews, and also of the questions: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Especially as thou knowest all, both customs and questions that are among the Jews: Wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

Catholic Public Domain Version
especially since you know everything that pertains to the Jews, both customs and questions. Because of this, I beg you to listen to me patiently.

New American Bible
especially since you are an expert in all the Jewish customs and controversies. And therefore I beg you to listen patiently.

New Revised Standard Version
because you are especially familiar with all the customs and controversies of the Jews; therefore I beg of you to listen to me patiently.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Especially because I know you are familiar with all the customs and questions and laws of the Jews: wherefore, I beg you to hear me patiently.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
“I especially know that you are capable in all inquiries of The Law of the Jews; I therefore ask of you that you will hear me patiently.”
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
especially, since you are acquainted with all the customs and questions that are among the Jews. For this reason, I beseech you to hear me patiently.

Godbey New Testament
especially as thou art acquainted with all the customs and questions among the Jews: therefore I pray you to hear me patiently.

Haweis New Testament
especially as thou art skilled both in all the customs, and questions which respect the Jews: wherefore I beg the favour of thee to hear me patiently.

Mace New Testament
for I know you are fully acquainted with the Jewish customs and controversies: and therefore I beg the indulgence of your attention.

Weymouth New Testament
who are so familiar with all the customs and speculations that prevail among the Jews; and for this reason, I pray you, give me a patient hearing.

Worrell New Testament
especially since you are an expert in all matters relating to Jews, both in customs and questions. Wherefore, I beseech you to hear me patiently.

Worsley New Testament
especially as thou art acquainted with all the customs and questions which are among the Jews; wherefore I intreat thee to hear me patiently.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Paul's Testimony to Agrippa
2“King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate to stand before you today to defend myself against all the accusations of the Jews, 3especially since you are acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. I beg you, therefore, to listen to me patiently. 4Surely all the Jews know how I have lived from the earliest days of my youth, among my own people and in Jerusalem.…

Cross References
Acts 24:10
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.

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 23:6
Then Paul, knowing that some of them were Sadducees and the others Pharisees, called out in the Sanhedrin, “Brothers, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. It is because of my hope in the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial.”

Acts 25:10
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.

Acts 24:22
Then Felix, who was well informed about the Way, adjourned the hearing and said, “When Lysias the commander comes, I will decide your case.”

Acts 26:27
King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.”

Acts 26:7
the promise our twelve tribes are hoping to see fulfilled as they earnestly serve God day and night. It is because of this hope, O king, that I am accused by the Jews.

Acts 26:26
For the king knows about these matters, and I can speak freely to him. I am confident that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner.

Acts 9:15
“Go!” said the Lord. “This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings, and before the people of Israel.

Acts 13:16
Paul stood up, motioned with his hand, and began to speak: “Men of Israel and you Gentiles who fear God, listen to me!

Acts 21:20
When they heard this, they glorified God. Then they said to Paul, “You see, brother, how many thousands of Jews have believed, and all of them are zealous for the law.

Acts 28:17
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.

Acts 18:15
But since it is a dispute about words and names and your own law, settle it yourselves. I refuse to be a judge of such things.”

Acts 15:1-2
Then some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” / And after engaging these men in sharp debate, Paul and Barnabas were appointed, along with some other believers, to go up to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders about this question.

Acts 6:14
For we have heard him say that Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs that Moses handed down to us.”


Treasury of Scripture

Especially because I know you to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: why I beseech you to hear me patiently.

because.

Acts 26:26
For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner.

Acts 6:14
For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.

Acts 21:21
And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.

to hear.

Acts 24:4
Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.

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Acquainted Beg Beseech Controversies Customs End Especially Expert Familiar Hear Hearing Jewish Jews Patient Patiently Prevail Questions Reason Speculations Ways Wherefore
Acts 26
1. Paul, in the presence of Agrippa, declares his life from his childhood;
12. and how miraculously he was converted, and called to his apostleship.
24. Festus charges him with being insane, whereunto he answers modestly.
28. Agrippa is almost persuaded to be a Christian.
31. The whole company pronounces him innocent.














especially since
This phrase underscores the importance of the audience's familiarity with the subject matter. In the Greek, the word "μάλιστα" (malista) is used, which means "most of all" or "particularly." Paul is emphasizing that his message is particularly relevant to King Agrippa, who has a deep understanding of Jewish traditions. This sets the stage for a more receptive hearing, as Paul is appealing to Agrippa's expertise and interest in Jewish matters.

you are acquainted
The Greek word "γινώσκων" (ginōskōn) implies a deep, experiential knowledge. Paul acknowledges Agrippa's familiarity with Jewish customs, suggesting that Agrippa is not just superficially aware but has a comprehensive understanding. This acknowledgment serves to build rapport and establish common ground, which is a strategic move in persuasive communication.

with all the Jewish customs
The term "customs" refers to the practices and traditions that were integral to Jewish life and religion. The Greek word "ἔθη" (ethē) is used, which can also mean "manners" or "rites." These customs were not merely cultural but were deeply rooted in the Jewish faith and law, as given in the Torah. Paul's reference to these customs indicates that his defense is not just a personal narrative but is deeply intertwined with Jewish religious practices.

and controversies
The Greek word "ζητήματα" (zētēmata) refers to disputes or debates. In the context of first-century Judaism, there were many theological and legal debates, such as those between the Pharisees and Sadducees. By mentioning controversies, Paul is acknowledging the complex and often contentious nature of Jewish religious life. This also highlights the relevance of his message, as it addresses these very issues.

I beg you, therefore
The phrase "I beg you" is translated from the Greek "δέομαι" (deomai), which conveys a sense of earnest pleading or supplication. Paul is not merely making a request; he is passionately appealing to Agrippa's sense of justice and understanding. The use of "therefore" (Greek "οὖν," oun) indicates that this plea is a logical conclusion based on Agrippa's knowledge and the importance of the message Paul is about to deliver.

to listen to me patiently
The Greek word for "patiently" is "μακροθυμίας" (makrothymias), which implies long-suffering or endurance. Paul is asking Agrippa to bear with him as he presents his case, which suggests that the message may be lengthy or complex. This request for patience is a humble acknowledgment of the gravity and depth of what Paul is about to share, and it reflects his respect for Agrippa's role as a judge and listener.

(3) Expert in all customs and questions.--The former word is used in its half-technical sense, as including all the precepts of the Law of Moses. (See Notes on Acts 6:14; Acts 21:21.)

Verse 3. - Thou art expert for I know thee to be expert, A.V. and T.R. Expert; γνώστην, here only in the New Testament, but found in the LXX. (Daniel, i.e. Hist. of Susanna 42) applied to God, ὁ τῶν κρυπτῶν γνώστης: and 1 Samuel 28:3 and 2 Kings 21:6, as the rendering of יִדֹּעְנִי, a wizard. It is seldom found in classical Greek. According to the R.T., which is that generally adopted (Meyer, Kuinoel, Wordsworth, Alford, etc.), the accusative γνώστην ὄντα σέ is put, by a not uncommon construction, for the genitive absolute, as in Ephesians 1:18. The marginal rendering, because thou art especially expert, seems preferable to that in the text. Customs and questions. For the use of ἔθη and ζητήματα applied to Jewish customs and controversies, see Acts 6:14; Acts 16:21; Acts 21:21, etc.; and Acts 25:19, note.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
especially
μάλιστα (malista)
Adverb
Strong's 3122: Most of all, especially. Neuter plural of the superlative of an apparently primary adverb mala; most or particularly.

[since] you
σε (se)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

are
ὄντα (onta)
Verb - Present Participle Active - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 1510: I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.

acquainted
γνώστην (gnōstēn)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 1109: One who knows, an expert. From ginosko; a knower.

with all
πάντων (pantōn)
Adjective - Genitive Neuter Plural
Strong's 3956: All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.

the
τῶν (tōn)
Article - Genitive Neuter Plural
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

Jewish
Ἰουδαίους (Ioudaious)
Adjective - Accusative Masculine Plural
Strong's 2453: Jewish. From Iouda; Judaean, i.e. Belonging to Jehudah.

customs
ἐθῶν (ethōn)
Noun - Genitive Neuter Plural
Strong's 1485: A custom, habit; an institute, rite. From etho; a usage.

and
τε (te)
Conjunction
Strong's 5037: And, both. A primary particle of connection or addition; both or also.

controversies.
ζητημάτων (zētēmatōn)
Noun - Genitive Neuter Plural
Strong's 2213: A question, subject of inquiry, dispute. From zeteo; a search, i.e. a debate.

I beg [you],
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.

therefore,
διὸ (dio)
Conjunction
Strong's 1352: Wherefore, on which account, therefore. From dia and hos; through which thing, i.e. Consequently.

to listen to
ἀκοῦσαί (akousai)
Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active
Strong's 191: To hear, listen, comprehend by hearing; pass: is heard, reported. A primary verb; to hear.

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

patiently.
μακροθύμως (makrothymōs)
Adverb
Strong's 3116: With longsuffering, patiently. Adverb of a compound of makros and thumos; with long temper, i.e. Leniently.


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