Bible Dictionary
TEMPLES, ROBBERS OF
“Robbers of temples” describes those accused of taking valuable idols or ornaments from pagan sanctuaries for personal gain, rather than destroying them as Israel’s law required. The charge was raised against Paul’s companions at Ephesus.
Biblical Usage
At Ephesus, the town clerk declared Paul’s companions innocent of being robbers of temples. The charge was especially liable to fall upon Jews because their law required the destruction of heathen idols and their ornaments.