Lydia
Who is Lydia? Lydia is a woman in Philippi who traded purple cloth; she believed Paul's message, was baptized, and opened her home to believers.
Lydia is known in the New Testament as one of the first named believers in Europe. A dealer in purple cloth living in Philippi, she was a worshiper of God who listened when Paul spoke. When the Lord opened her heart, she believed the message, was baptized with her household, and showed hospitality to the apostles. In this way, Lydia is significant both for her personal response and for opening her home to the community of believers. You can explore Lydia's story, the main chapter references, and frequently asked questions in the sections below.
Read the chapters
- Acts 16
The chapter where the message first reaches Europe — in Philippi, a home opened by a woman, a household coming to faith, and two prisoners who keep their hope even in jail.
Related topics
Related places
Related verse collections
- Bible Verses About Salvation
- Bible Verses About Repentance
- Bible Verses About Generosity
- Bible Verses About Witness
Reading plans
- The Early Church Through Acts — 28 Days
- The Bible in a Year — 365 Days from Cover to Cover
- 30 Days with the Gospel — An Introduction to the New Testament
Related guides
- What Is a Church (Kilise)?
What is a church, what does the word mean and what does it refer to in the Bible? A short, neutral guide to community vs. building, its origin and its different traditions.
Books
People in the Bible
Why is Lydia important in the Bible?
Lydia is mentioned as a woman in Philippi who believed and was baptized during Paul's ministry. By opening her home, she shows the importance of hospitality and support in the formation of the early church community.
What can be known with certainty about Lydia?
The text states that she lived in Philippi, sold purple cloth, was a worshiper of God, and responded positively to Paul's message. It also says that she was baptized with her household and hosted Paul in her home.