And they Namely, the artificers and workmen; drew Greek, προεβιβασαν, thrust forward; Alexander Probably some well- known Christian whom they saw in the crowd; the Jews Whom he had offended by embracing the gospel; pushing him forward To expose him to the enraged multitude, as one who was active in destroying the established religion. And Alexander, beckoning with his hand In token of desiring silence; would have made a defence For himself and his brethren. But, when they knew he was a Jew And consequently an enemy to their religion and the worship of images, they would not suffer him to speak; but all with one voice (the whole multitude uniting as one man) vociferated, Great is Diana of the Ephesians This was all the cry for two hours together; and it was thought a sufficient confutation of Paul's doctrine, that they are no gods which are made with hands! and thus the most sacred truths are often run down with nothing else but noise and clamour and popular fury! It was said of old, (Jeremiah 50:38,) concerning idolaters, that they were mad upon their idols; and here is an instance of it: Diana made the Ephesians great, for the town was enriched by the vast concourse of people from all parts to her temple there, and therefore they are concerned, by all means possible, to keep up her sinking reputation, and hope to do it effectually with, Great is Diana of the Ephesians!
Related Commentaries of Acts 19:33
Acts 19:33-34
33 And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people.
34 But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.