only Acts mentions the specific trade (Acts 18:3). Paul and his family were “tentmakers.” Because of its fine harbor and its strategic location on the major trade route connecting Syria to Asia Minor, Tarsus was an important hub of commerce. The trade caravans that passed through the city required a steady production of tents, and the canopies that covered the caravan wagons would constantly require replacement or repair. Apparently the business thrived, and Paul’s family became moderately wealthy.