Athens

Acts xvii. 15, 16, & seq.ATHENS, a celebrated City of Greece, formerly a very powerful Commonwealth, which distinguished itself very much in war; but acquired still more glory, by the learning, eloquence and politeness, whereof its inhabitants made profession. It would be to little purpose to give here an historical account of Athens. We shall only observe, that St. Paul coming thither in the year of J.C. 52. found it deeply plunged in idolatry, taken up in hearing news, and spreading it, extremely curious to know every thing, and very much divided in opinions concerning true Religion, and supreme Happiness. St. Paul having taken an opportunity there to preach JESUS CHRIST, was carried before the Judges of the Areopagus, where he gave an illustrious testimony to Truth, and the Unity of God. There he converted Dionysius the Areopagite, and Damaris, who according to some of the Ancients¹, was this Senator’s Wife. Dionysius was ordained first Bishop of Athens; and it is believed that he ended his life there by an honourable Martyrdom.

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