Lydia,

the first European convert of St. Paul, and afterward his hostess during his first stay at Philippi. ( Acts 16:14 Acts 16:15 ) also Acts 18:40 (A.D. 47.) She was a Jewish proselyte at the time of the apostles coming; and it was at the Jewish Sabbath-worship by the side of a stream ver 13, that the preaching of the gospel reached her heart. Her native place was Thyatira, in the province of Asia. ver. 14; ( Revelation 2:18 ) Thyatira was famous for its dyeing works; and Lydia wars connected with this trade, as a seller either of dye or of dyed goods. We infer that she was a person of considerable wealth.