Acts 2:3

KJV

And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} there appeared {G3700} unto them {G846} cloven {G1266} tongues {G1100} like as {G5616} of fire {G4442}, and {G5037} it sat {G2523} upon {G1909} each {G1538}{G1520} of them {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then they saw what looked like tongues of fire, which separated and came to rest on each one of them.

Berean Standard Bible

They saw tongues like flames of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.

American Standard Version

And there appeared unto them tongues parting asunder, like as of fire; and it sat upon each one of them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 2:3 vividly describes the dramatic, visible manifestation of the Holy Spirit's arrival on the Day of Pentecost, marking a foundational moment for the early church. As the disciples were gathered, they witnessed what appeared to be "cloven tongues like as of fire" distributing and settling upon each individual present, signifying the Spirit's personal indwelling and empowering presence, thereby fulfilling ancient prophecies and Jesus's promise to His followers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 2:3 is the climactic moment following the disciples' obedience to Jesus's command to wait in Jerusalem for the "promise of the Father" ([Acts 1:4](/acts/1-4 "Acts 1:4 - Command to Wait")). Having witnessed Jesus's ascension and chosen Matthias to replace Judas ([Acts 1:9-26](/acts/1-9-26 "Acts 1:9-26 - Ascension and Matthias's Selection")), the 120 believers were "all with one accord in one place" ([Acts 2:1](/acts/2-1 "Acts 2:1 - Pentecost Gathering")), anticipating the promised power to become His witnesses ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - The Great Commission")). This verse immediately precedes the Spirit-empowered speaking in other tongues ([Acts 2:4](/acts/2-4 "Acts 2:4 - Speaking in Other Tongues")) and Peter's powerful sermon, which led to the conversion of thousands ([Acts 2:14-41](/acts/2-14-41 "Acts 2:14-41 - Peter's Pentecost Sermon and Conversions")), establishing the church's initial growth and mission.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The event takes place on the Jewish Feast of Pentecost (Shavuot), one of the three annual pilgrimage festivals, which occurred fifty days after Passover. This festival celebrated the wheat harvest and, later, the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. Jerusalem would have been bustling with devout Jews from "every nation under heaven" ([Acts 2:5](/acts/2-5 "Acts 2:5 - Devout Jews from Every Nation")), making it an ideal setting for the Spirit's global manifestation and the proclamation of the Gospel in multiple languages. The imagery of fire would have resonated deeply with Jewish audiences, recalling the fiery presence of God at the burning bush ([Exodus 3:2](/exodus/3-2 "Exodus 3:2 - The Burning Bush")), atop Mount Sinai ([Exodus 19:18](/exodus/19-18 "Exodus 19:18 - God's Presence on Sinai")), and in the pillar of fire guiding Israel ([Exodus 13:21](/exodus/13-21 "Exodus 13:21 - Pillar of Fire")).
* **Key Themes:** Acts 2:3 contributes significantly to several key themes in the book of Acts and broader New Testament theology. Firstly, it underscores the **visible manifestation of the Holy Spirit**, providing undeniable evidence of His arrival and divine power, fulfilling prophecies like that of [Joel 2:28-29](/joel/2-28-29 "Joel 2:28-29 - Prophecy of the Spirit's Outpouring"). Secondly, the imagery of "tongues" and the subsequent speaking in other languages emphasizes **empowerment for global proclamation**, highlighting the Spirit's role in enabling the church's mission to bear witness to Christ "unto the uttermost part of the earth" ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - The Great Commission")). Finally, the phrase "it sat upon each of them" powerfully conveys the theme of **personal indwelling**, signifying that the Holy Spirit was not merely poured out generally, but intimately and individually gifted to every believer, inaugurating the New Covenant era where God's Spirit dwells within His people ([Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant Promise")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **cloven (Greek, _diamerízō'_):** This word, derived from `δια` (dia, "through") and `μερίζω` (merizō, "to divide"), means "to partition thoroughly" or "to distribute." In the context of "tongues," it indicates that the fiery appearance was not a single, unified flame that then split, but rather distinct, individual manifestations that were distributed or apportioned to each person present. This emphasizes the individual reception of the Spirit.
* **tongues (Greek, _glōssa'_):** While literally meaning the physical organ of the mouth, _glōssa_ also refers to "a language," particularly one "naturally unacquired." Here, in conjunction with "cloven" and the subsequent events of speaking in various languages ([Acts 2:4](/acts/2-4 "Acts 2:4 - Speaking in Tongues")), it strongly signifies the capacity for speech and communication, particularly in diverse languages, as a direct empowerment for the global spread of the Gospel.
* **fire (Greek, _pŷr'_):** This primary word denotes "fire" literally or figuratively. In this context, the appearance was "like as of fire," indicating a visual resemblance rather than literal burning. Fire in biblical imagery often symbolizes the presence of God, purification, judgment, zeal, and divine illumination or revelation. Its appearance here signifies the powerful, purifying, and zealous nature of the Holy Spirit's advent.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire":** This phrase describes the initial, astonishing visual phenomenon. The disciples witnessed something that resembled "tongues" (shapes associated with speech) that were "cloven" or distributed, and these forms had the appearance "like as of fire." This imagery conveys a supernatural, divine manifestation that was both distinct and universally observed by those gathered, signaling the arrival of a powerful, purifying, and communicative presence.
* **"and it sat upon each of them":** This second clause describes the culmination of the phenomenon, emphasizing the personal and individual nature of the Spirit's indwelling. The singular "it" (referring to the manifestation, or implicitly the Spirit) "sat" or "settled" upon "each" person. This signifies not a general outpouring that merely hovered over the group, but a specific, personal endowment of the Holy Spirit to every single believer present, marking the beginning of the New Covenant reality where the Spirit indwells all believers.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 2:3 employs several powerful literary devices to convey the significance of the Holy Spirit's arrival. **Simile** is prominently used in the phrase "like as of fire," comparing the appearance of the tongues to fire without asserting they were literal flames. This allows for the rich symbolic associations of fire (divine presence, purification, zeal, judgment) to be invoked without implying physical combustion. **Symbolism** is central, with "tongues" representing speech, communication, and the diverse languages through which the Gospel would be proclaimed, while "fire" symbolizes the powerful, purifying, and zealous nature of the Holy Spirit. The act of "it sat upon each of them" can be seen as a form of subtle **Personification**, as an abstract or divine entity (the Holy Spirit, or its visible manifestation) is described as performing an action typically associated with a person or living being (sitting or settling), underscoring the Spirit's personal and intentional indwelling.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 2:3 is a foundational text for understanding the nature and work of the Holy Spirit in the New Covenant era. It marks the dramatic fulfillment of God's ancient promises to pour out His Spirit upon all flesh, signifying a radical shift from the Spirit's selective empowerment in the Old Testament to His universal indwelling of believers. This event inaugurates the church's mission, empowering ordinary people with supernatural abilities for witness and service. The visible manifestation of "cloven tongues like as of fire" underscores the Spirit's active, dynamic, and transformative presence, equipping believers not just for personal piety but for corporate proclamation and the expansion of God's kingdom.

* [Joel 2:28-29](/joel/2-28-29 "Joel 2:28-29 - Prophecy of the Spirit's Outpouring"): This Old Testament prophecy, quoted by Peter in Acts 2, directly foretells the outpouring of God's Spirit upon "all flesh," including sons, daughters, servants, and handmaids, leading to prophesying, dreams, and visions. Acts 2:3 is the dramatic fulfillment of this promise.
* [John 14:16-17](/john/14-16-17 "John 14:16-17 - Promise of the Helper"): Jesus promises His disciples that He would ask the Father to send "another Helper" (the Holy Spirit) who would "abide with you forever," dwelling "in you." Acts 2:3 visibly demonstrates this personal indwelling.
* [1 Corinthians 12:13](/1_corinthians/12-13 "1 Corinthians 12:13 - Baptism by the Spirit"): Paul explains that "by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body," whether Jew or Gentile, slave or free, and "have been all made to drink into one Spirit." This verse describes the Spirit's unifying work, which began with the individual indwelling seen in Acts 2:3.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The breathtaking scene in Acts 2:3 serves as a profound reminder of the Holy Spirit's active and personal presence in the lives of believers today. Just as the Spirit visibly and powerfully descended upon each disciple, He continues to indwell, empower, and equip every follower of Christ for their unique calling and for the collective mission of the church. This verse encourages us to recognize that the same divine power that launched the early church resides within us, enabling us to live lives of holiness, boldness in witness, and effective service. It challenges us to cultivate a deeper reliance on the Spirit, to discern His promptings, and to utilize the spiritual gifts He bestows, knowing that His presence is not merely a historical event but a living reality that transforms us and empowers us to participate in God's ongoing work in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of "cloven tongues like as of fire" shape your understanding of the Holy Spirit's nature and work?**
* **What does the phrase "it sat upon each of them" imply about the personal relationship God desires to have with every believer through the Spirit?**
* **In what practical ways can you seek to rely more fully on the Holy Spirit's empowerment for your daily life and witness?**
* **How might the visible and dramatic nature of the Spirit's arrival in Acts 2:3 encourage you to be more open to the Spirit's manifestations in your own life and in the church today?**

### FAQ

**What does "cloven tongues" mean in Acts 2:3?**

Answer: The phrase "cloven tongues" (from the Greek _diamerízō_ and _glōssa_) signifies that what appeared was not a single, unified tongue of fire that then split, but rather distinct, individual, tongue-shaped manifestations that were distributed or apportioned to each person present. It emphasizes the individual reception of the Holy Spirit by every believer in the room, rather than a general, undifferentiated outpouring. These "tongues" were symbolic of speech and language, foreshadowing the miraculous speaking in other languages that immediately followed in [Acts 2:4](/acts/2-4 "Acts 2:4 - Speaking in Tongues").

**Why is the Holy Spirit described as being "like as of fire"?**

Answer: The description "like as of fire" (Greek _hōseí pŷr_) indicates a visual resemblance rather than literal burning. Fire is a powerful biblical symbol frequently associated with the presence of God, as seen in the burning bush ([Exodus 3:2](/exodus/3-2 "Exodus 3:2 - The Burning Bush")) or on Mount Sinai ([Exodus 19:18](/exodus/19-18 "Exodus 19:18 - God's Presence on Sinai")). In this context, the fiery appearance symbolizes the Holy Spirit's purifying power, His zealous and consuming nature, His illuminating presence, and His role in empowering and energizing believers for divine service. It conveys the intensity and transformative power of His arrival.

**What is the significance of "it sat upon each of them"?**

Answer: This phrase is profoundly significant because it highlights the personal and individual indwelling of the Holy Spirit in every believer. Unlike the Old Testament, where the Spirit might "come upon" or "fill" select individuals for specific tasks (e.g., prophets, kings, craftsmen), the Pentecost event marks a new era where the Spirit permanently "sits upon" or "settles" within every follower of Christ. This signifies an intimate, personal, and abiding relationship, fulfilling Jesus's promise that the Helper would "abide with you forever" and "be in you" ([John 14:16-17](/john/14-16-17 "John 14:16-17 - Promise of the Helper")). It underscores that every believer is personally empowered and gifted by the Spirit for life and ministry within the body of Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 2:3, depicting the visible descent of the Holy Spirit, represents the glorious Christ-centered fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. This event is not merely an isolated miracle but the promised consequence of Jesus's completed work on the cross and His triumphant ascension. Before His departure, Jesus explicitly commanded His disciples to wait for the "promise of the Father," which He identified as the Holy Spirit, whom He would send from the Father ([Luke 24:49](/luke/24-49 "Luke 24:49 - Promise of Power from on High"); [John 15:26](/john/15-26 "John 15:26 - The Spirit of Truth")). The "cloven tongues like as of fire" settling "upon each of them" is the tangible evidence that Christ, now glorified at the right hand of God, has poured out the Spirit, thereby inaugurating the new covenant age and establishing His church. The Spirit's arrival empowers believers to be Christ's witnesses "unto the uttermost part of the earth" ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "The Great Commission")), enabling them to proclaim the Gospel of His death and resurrection. Thus, the Pentecost event in [Acts 2](/acts/2 "Acts 2 - The Day of Pentecost") is the indispensable fulfillment of Christ's promise, ensuring His continued presence and power through the Spirit within His body, the church, until His return ([John 14:18](/john/14-18 "John 14:18 - Jesus Will Not Leave Them Orphaned")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 3:11

I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and [with] fire:

John 1:32

And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him.

John 1:33

And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.

Jeremiah 23:29

[Is] not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer [that] breaketh the rock in pieces?

Isaiah 11:2

And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;

Isaiah 11:3

And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:

Acts 2:4

And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.