Dictionaries :: Demetrius

Easton's Bible Dictionary

Demetrius:

(1.) A silversmith at Ephesus, whose chief occupation was to make "silver shrines for Diana" (q.v.), Act 19:24,i.e., models either of the temple of Diana or of the statue of the goddess. This trade brought to him and his fellow-craftsmen "no small gain," for these shrines found a ready sale among the countless thousands who came to this temple from all parts of Asia Minor. This traffic was greatly endangered by the progress of the gospel, and hence Demetrius excited the tradesmen employed in the manufacture of these shrines, and caused so great a tumult that "the whole city was filled with confusion."

(2.) A Christian who is spoken of as having "a good report of all men, and of the truth itself" (3Jo 1:12).

Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary

Demetrius:

belonging to corn, or to Ceres

Nave's Topical Bible

Demetrius: 1. A Silversmith

Noted for raising a riot,

Act 19:24-38.

Demetrius: 2. A Christian

Mentioned in,

3Jo 1:12.

Smith's Bible Dictionary

Demetrius:

(belonging to Ceres).

(1.) A maker of silver shrines of Artemis at Ephesus (Acts 19:24) (about A.D. 52). These were small models of the great temple of the Ephesian Artemis, with her statue, which it was customary to carry on journeys, and place on houses as charms.

(2.) A disciple (3 John 1:12) mentioned with commendation (about A.D. 90). Possibly the first Demetrius, converted; but this is very doubtful.