Strong’s Greek 557 (ἀπελεγμός) denotes a fall into contempt, disgrace, or disrepute. In Acts 19:27 it expresses the fear that the silversmiths’ lucrative idol-making trade and the very cult of Artemis might be publicly exposed as worthless. Although the noun occurs only once, the idea it conveys—being shown up as empty, dishonorable, or shameful—runs through Scripture whenever idolatry, false religion, or human pride is confronted by the truth of God.

Context in Acts 19

1. Economic self-interest under threat

Demetrius frames the issue first in terms of lost profit (“our trade will lose its good name”), illustrating how financial motives drive religious opposition.

2. Anticipated public disgrace

The silversmiths dread “disrepute,” not merely lower income. Reputation in Greco-Roman society was a public commodity; to be held in contempt was worse than material loss. The gospel’s success in Ephesus (Acts 19:18-20) imperiled their social standing.

3. Idolatry unmasked

By preaching “gods made by human hands are not gods at all” (Acts 19:26), Paul exposes the impotence of idols. The single use of ἀπελεγμός crystallizes the moment idols stand stripped of perceived glory, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy that false gods will be put to shame (Isaiah 45:16-20; Jeremiah 10:14-15).

Historical and Cultural Significance

• Ephesus housed one of the Seven Wonders—the Temple of Artemis. To suggest it might become “discredited” challenged civic pride, religious tradition, and regional economy.
• Greco-Roman honor culture treated public opinion as a moral barometer. The artisans’ anxiety spotlights how the gospel destabilizes entrenched systems by redefining honor in Christ alone.
• Luke’s careful narration shows Christianity colliding with, and prevailing over, a world power base rooted in ritual, commerce, and celebrity worship.

Theological Themes

1. The Vanity of Idolatry

Psalm 115:4-8 and Acts 19 together reveal idols as human fabrications destined for humiliation. The term ἀπελεγμός amplifies this futility.

2. True versus False Honor

God “opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). Worldly honor collapses when exposed to divine light; true honor belongs to those who fear the Lord (Proverbs 22:4).

3. Gospel Impact on Society

Acts 19:27 underscores how evangelism affects economics and culture. Conversions diminish demand for occult scrolls (Acts 19:19) and silver shrines. Social reform flows from transformed hearts, not political coercion.

Ministerial Applications

• Expect confrontation: Faithful proclamation may threaten profitable but sinful industries (pornography, gambling, predatory lending). Like Paul, ministers must endure social backlash without compromising truth.
• Discern motives: Resistance often masquerades as concern for tradition or public good while hiding economic self-interest.
• Proclaim the supremacy of Christ: Only by magnifying Jesus will idols fall into ἀπελεγμός. Preaching must elevate His glory above cultural icons.
• Shepherd converts: New believers leaving idolatry need guidance to renounce former practices and withstand communal pressure.

Related Biblical Passages

Isaiah 44:9-11; Jeremiah 51:17-18 – idols brought to “shame.”

Habakkuk 2:18-20 – craftsmen engrave worthless images.

Romans 1:21-23 – exchanging God’s glory for likenesses of creation.

1 Thessalonians 1:9 – turning “to God from idols to serve the living and true God.”

See Also

Strong’s Greek 3681 (ὄνειδος, reproach) – the state of disgrace borne by Christ’s followers (Hebrews 13:13).

Strong’s Greek 987 (βλασφημέω, blaspheme) – slandering the holy, the opposite direction of ἀπελεγμός where the unholy is unmasked.