Acts 1:12
Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey.
Original Language Analysis
Τότε
Then
G5119
Τότε
Then
Strong's:
G5119
Word #:
1 of 16
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
ὑπέστρεψαν
returned they
G5290
ὑπέστρεψαν
returned they
Strong's:
G5290
Word #:
2 of 16
to turn under (behind), i.e., to return (literally or figuratively)
εἰς
unto
G1519
εἰς
unto
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
3 of 16
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
Ἰερουσαλὴμ
Jerusalem
G2419
Ἰερουσαλὴμ
Jerusalem
Strong's:
G2419
Word #:
4 of 16
hierusalem (i.e., jerushalem), the capitol of palestine
ἀπὸ
from
G575
ἀπὸ
from
Strong's:
G575
Word #:
5 of 16
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καλουμένου
called
G2564
καλουμένου
called
Strong's:
G2564
Word #:
8 of 16
to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)
Ἐλαιῶνος
Olivet
G1638
Ἐλαιῶνος
Olivet
Strong's:
G1638
Word #:
9 of 16
an olive-orchard, i.e., (specially) the mount of olives
ὅ
which
G3739
ὅ
which
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
10 of 16
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
Ἰερουσαλὴμ
Jerusalem
G2419
Ἰερουσαλὴμ
Jerusalem
Strong's:
G2419
Word #:
13 of 16
hierusalem (i.e., jerushalem), the capitol of palestine
σαββάτου
a sabbath
G4521
σαββάτου
a sabbath
Strong's:
G4521
Word #:
14 of 16
the sabbath (i.e., shabbath), or day of weekly repose from secular avocations (also the observance or institution itself); by extension, a se'nnight,
Cross References
Luke 24:52And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy:Matthew 21:1And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples,Luke 24:50And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.
Historical Context
The upper room was likely the same location as the Last Supper, possibly in John Mark's mother's house (Acts 12:12). This became the early church's first gathering place before Pentecost transformed their numbers.
Questions for Reflection
- What significance do you find in the apostles' devoted waiting rather than immediate action?
- How does this period of prayer and unity prepare for Spirit-empowered mission?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The 'sabbath day's journey' (about 2,000 cubits or half a mile) indicates the disciples remained observant Jews. Their return to the 'upper room' established a place of prayer and community. Luke's list of the eleven apostles (minus Judas) emphasizes the witnesses who would carry Christ's testimony to the world.