Then I watched
The phrase "Then I watched" indicates the Apostle John's active participation and attentive observation in the unfolding of the divine vision. The Greek word for "watched" is "eidon," which implies not just seeing but perceiving with understanding. This suggests that John is not merely a passive observer but is deeply engaged in the revelation being presented to him. Historically, this moment marks the transition from the heavenly worship scene in Revelation 4-5 to the commencement of the judgments on earth, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and spiritual awareness in the Christian life.

as the Lamb
The "Lamb" refers to Jesus Christ, depicted as the sacrificial Lamb who was slain for the sins of the world. The Greek word "arnion" is used here, emphasizing the innocence and sacrificial nature of Christ. This imagery is deeply rooted in the Passover lamb of the Old Testament, symbolizing deliverance and redemption. Theologically, it underscores the centrality of Christ's atoning work in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, reminding believers of the power and authority vested in the Lamb to execute divine judgment.

opened one of the seven seals
The act of opening the "seven seals" signifies the initiation of God's judgment and the revelation of His divine will. The number seven in biblical terms often represents completeness or perfection, indicating the totality of God's plan. The seals are part of a scroll, which in ancient times would contain important decrees or wills, suggesting that what is being revealed is of utmost significance. This act of opening by the Lamb highlights His unique authority and role as the executor of God's sovereign purposes.

and I heard
The phrase "and I heard" emphasizes the auditory aspect of John's visionary experience, indicating that revelation comes through both sight and sound. The Greek word "akouo" implies not just hearing but understanding and comprehending the message. This dual sensory experience underscores the vividness and reality of the vision, inviting believers to be attentive to God's voice in their own lives.

one of the four living creatures
The "four living creatures" are symbolic beings described earlier in Revelation 4, representing aspects of God's creation and His attributes. They are often interpreted as cherubim or seraphim, angelic beings that serve and worship God continually. Their involvement in the opening of the seals signifies the participation of all creation in the unfolding of God's plan, highlighting the interconnectedness of heaven and earth in the divine narrative.

say with a voice like thunder
The "voice like thunder" conveys authority, power, and the seriousness of the message being delivered. Thunder in biblical literature often accompanies divine revelation or judgment, as seen in the theophanies of the Old Testament. This powerful voice serves as a call to attention, urging believers to heed the significance of the events that are about to unfold.

'Come!'
The command "Come!" is an invitation or summons, possibly directed towards the rider of the first horse that appears in the subsequent verses. The Greek word "erchou" can also imply "go" or "proceed," indicating the initiation of action. This imperative highlights the active role of divine will in the progression of history, encouraging believers to trust in God's sovereign timing and purpose.

So I looked and saw
This phrase indicates the Apostle John's role as a visionary, receiving divine revelation. The Greek word for "looked" (ἐβλέπον) suggests an intentional and focused gaze, emphasizing the importance of what is being revealed. John's vision is not a mere dream but a purposeful unveiling of future events, underscoring the prophetic nature of the Book of Revelation.

a white horse
The color white in biblical symbolism often represents purity, victory, and righteousness. In the context of Revelation, the white horse can be seen as a symbol of conquest and triumph. Historically, white horses were associated with victorious Roman generals returning from battle. This imagery sets the stage for the rider's mission, which is one of conquest.

and its rider held a bow
The bow is a weapon of war, symbolizing military power and the ability to strike from a distance. In the ancient world, archers were formidable warriors, and the bow represents the rider's capacity to exert influence and control. The absence of arrows in the text has led some scholars to suggest that the conquest may be achieved through diplomacy or threat rather than outright war.

And he was given a crown
The crown (Greek: στέφανος, stephanos) is a symbol of authority and victory. Unlike a diadem, which signifies royal power, a stephanos is often associated with the laurel wreaths awarded to victors in athletic contests. This suggests that the rider's authority is granted for a specific purpose and time, aligning with the theme of divine sovereignty over earthly events.

and he rode out to overcome and conquer
The dual purpose of overcoming and conquering highlights the rider's mission. The Greek words νικᾷν (nikao) and κατακτᾶσθαι (kataktesthai) imply both victory and subjugation. This reflects the unfolding of God's plan, where earthly powers are used to fulfill divine purposes. The rider's conquest is part of the larger narrative of Revelation, where God's ultimate victory over evil is assured.

And when the Lamb
The "Lamb" refers to Jesus Christ, depicted as the sacrificial Lamb of God. This imagery is deeply rooted in the Passover lamb of Exodus, symbolizing deliverance and sacrifice. In Greek, "Lamb" is "ἀρνίον" (arnion), emphasizing innocence and purity. The Lamb's role in Revelation underscores His authority and worthiness to execute God's judgment and redemption plan.

opened the second seal
The act of opening the "second seal" signifies the continuation of divine revelation and judgment. Seals in ancient times were used to secure documents, indicating authenticity and authority. The opening of each seal reveals a new aspect of God's sovereign plan. The Greek word for "seal" is "σφραγίς" (sphragis), which conveys the idea of a mark or a sign of ownership, emphasizing God's control over the unfolding events.

I heard
The phrase "I heard" indicates the Apostle John's role as a witness to the heavenly vision. The Greek word "ἤκουσα" (ēkousa) implies attentive listening, suggesting that John is not merely a passive observer but an active participant in receiving and conveying the revelation. This highlights the importance of spiritual discernment and attentiveness to God's voice.

the second living creature
The "second living creature" is one of the four living beings described in Revelation 4:6-8, each representing different aspects of creation and God's attributes. These creatures are reminiscent of the cherubim in Ezekiel's visions, symbolizing God's majesty and omnipresence. The Greek term "ζῷον" (zōon) for "living creature" emphasizes life and vitality, reflecting the dynamic nature of God's creation.

say, 'Come!'
The command "Come!" is an invitation or a summons, possibly directed towards the horsemen of the apocalypse. The Greek word "ἔρχου" (erchou) is an imperative, indicating urgency and authority. This call initiates the next phase of judgment, reminding believers of the certainty and imminence of God's plans. The command also serves as a reminder of Christ's eventual return, urging readiness and faithfulness among His followers.

Then another horse went forth
The phrase "another horse" indicates a continuation of the vision of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. The Greek word for "another" (ἄλλος, allos) suggests a sequence or series, emphasizing that this horse is part of a larger divine plan. The imagery of horses in biblical prophecy often symbolizes swift action and power, drawing from ancient Near Eastern and Greco-Roman contexts where horses were associated with war and conquest.

It was bright red
The color "bright red" (πυρρός, pyrrhos) is significant, symbolizing bloodshed and war. In the ancient world, red was often associated with Mars, the Roman god of war, and it evokes the imagery of blood and fire. This vivid color sets the tone for the destructive mission of the rider, aligning with the biblical theme of divine judgment.

and its rider was granted permission
The phrase "granted permission" (ἐδόθη, edothē) underscores the sovereignty of God in the unfolding events. The passive voice indicates that the rider's authority is not inherent but bestowed, reflecting the biblical principle that all power is ultimately subject to God's will. This aligns with the broader scriptural narrative that God allows certain events to occur for the fulfillment of His divine purposes.

to take peace from the earth
The removal of "peace" (εἰρήνη, eirēnē) signifies a divinely sanctioned disruption of harmony. In the biblical context, peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a state of wholeness and well-being. The loss of peace suggests a period of chaos and turmoil, reminiscent of the prophetic warnings in the Old Testament about the consequences of turning away from God.

and to make men slay one another
The phrase "make men slay one another" (σφάξουσιν ἀλλήλους, sphaxousin allēlous) highlights the internal strife and violence that will characterize this period. The Greek verb "slay" (σφάζω, sphazō) conveys a sense of slaughter or butchery, indicating widespread and brutal conflict. This reflects the biblical theme of human depravity and the consequences of sin, as seen in the narratives of Cain and Abel and other scriptural accounts of fratricide.

And he was given a great sword
The "great sword" (μάχαιρα μεγάλη, machaira megalē) symbolizes the authority and means to execute judgment. In the ancient world, the sword was a symbol of power and authority, often associated with military might. The adjective "great" emphasizes the magnitude of the destruction that will ensue. This imagery resonates with the biblical portrayal of divine judgment as both righteous and inevitable, serving as a call to repentance and faithfulness.

And when the Lamb opened the third seal
The "Lamb" refers to Jesus Christ, depicted as the sacrificial Lamb who is worthy to open the seals of the scroll, a symbol of divine authority and revelation. The opening of the "third seal" signifies the unfolding of God's plan and judgment upon the earth. In the context of Revelation, each seal represents a different aspect of the end times, with the third seal introducing a period of economic hardship and scarcity.

I heard the third living creature say, 'Come!'
The "third living creature" is one of the four living creatures described in Revelation 4:6-8, which are often interpreted as angelic beings or representations of God's creation. The command "Come!" is an invitation to witness the unfolding events, emphasizing the divine orchestration and the inevitability of God's plan. The living creatures serve as heralds of the apocalyptic visions, underscoring the heavenly authority behind the events.

Then I looked and saw a black horse
The "black horse" symbolizes famine and economic distress. In the ancient world, black was often associated with mourning and calamity. The imagery of the horse is consistent with the other horsemen of the apocalypse, each representing different forms of judgment. The color black, in this context, highlights the severity and somberness of the conditions that will prevail during this time.

and its rider held in his hand a pair of scales
The "pair of scales" is a symbol of commerce and trade, often used in the ancient world to measure and distribute food and goods. This imagery suggests a time of scarcity where resources are rationed and measured carefully, indicating economic imbalance and inflation. The scales imply that basic necessities will become precious and expensive, reflecting a period of great hardship and inequality. This aligns with the biblical theme of justice and the consequences of human sinfulness, as God allows these conditions to unfold as part of His divine judgment.

And I heard a voice
The phrase begins with John, the author of Revelation, emphasizing his role as a witness to the divine revelation. The Greek word for "heard" is "ἤκουσα" (ēkousa), which implies not just hearing but understanding and perceiving the significance of the message. This voice is authoritative, coming from the midst of the four living creatures, indicating a divine or heavenly origin. In the context of Revelation, voices often convey God's will or judgment, underscoring the seriousness of the message.

in the midst of the four living creatures
The "four living creatures" are described earlier in Revelation 4:6-8 as beings full of eyes and having the likeness of a lion, calf, man, and eagle. These creatures are symbolic of God's creation and His omniscience, omnipotence, and omnipresence. The voice coming from their midst suggests a message that is both divinely sanctioned and universally significant, reflecting God's sovereign control over the unfolding events.

saying, 'A quart of wheat for a denarius
A "quart" (Greek: "χοῖνιξ" - choinix) was a measure of dry volume, approximately equivalent to what a person would need for a day's sustenance. A "denarius" was a Roman silver coin, commonly understood as a day's wage for a laborer. This phrase indicates severe economic hardship, where a full day's work would only provide enough wheat for one person's daily needs. Historically, such conditions reflect famine or economic collapse, often seen as divine judgment in biblical contexts.

and three quarts of barley for a denarius
Barley was considered a less desirable grain, often used to feed animals or the poor. The fact that three quarts of barley could be purchased for the same price as one quart of wheat suggests a desperate situation where people might resort to consuming less nutritious food to survive. This reflects a time of scarcity and inflation, where basic necessities become luxuries, highlighting the severity of the tribulation period described in Revelation.

and do not harm the oil and wine
The command to "not harm" (Greek: "μὴ ἀδικήσῃς" - mē adikēsēs) the oil and wine is intriguing. Oil and wine were staples in the ancient Mediterranean diet, often associated with abundance and blessing. Their preservation amidst scarcity suggests a selective judgment, where certain luxuries remain available, possibly indicating a disparity between the rich and poor. This could symbolize God's mercy or a warning against complacency and reliance on material wealth. In a spiritual sense, oil and wine might also represent the Holy Spirit and the joy of salvation, which remain untouched by earthly tribulations.

And when the Lamb opened the fourth seal
The "Lamb" refers to Jesus Christ, depicted as the sacrificial Lamb who is worthy to open the seals of the scroll, a symbol of divine authority and revelation. The imagery of the Lamb is deeply rooted in the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, particularly the Passover lamb, which prefigures Christ's atoning sacrifice. The "fourth seal" is part of a series of judgments that unfold in the book of Revelation, each seal revealing a new aspect of God's plan for the end times. The opening of the seals signifies the unveiling of divine mysteries and the progression of God's redemptive history.

I heard the voice of the fourth living creature
The "voice" here is significant as it represents divine communication. The "fourth living creature" is one of the four living beings described in Revelation 4:6-8, which are often interpreted as angelic beings or representations of creation that surround the throne of God. These creatures are full of eyes, symbolizing their awareness and vigilance, and they play a role in the worship and execution of God's will. The number four often symbolizes universality or completeness in biblical numerology, suggesting that these creatures have a comprehensive role in God's creation.

say, 'Come!'
The command "Come!" is a summons that initiates the next phase of the apocalyptic vision. This imperative is not just a call to witness but an invitation to participate in the unfolding of God's plan. The Greek word used here, "ἔρχου" (erchou), is a present imperative, indicating an immediate and ongoing action. This call is both a directive to the rider of the fourth horse and an invitation to the reader to engage with the prophetic vision. The command underscores the authority of God over the events of history and the certainty of His purposes being fulfilled. Theologically, it reminds believers of the sovereignty of God and the assurance that, despite the chaos of the end times, God's ultimate plan is one of redemption and restoration.

Then I looked and saw
This phrase indicates a transition in John's vision, emphasizing the immediacy and vividness of the revelation. The Greek word for "looked" (ἐβλέπον) suggests an intense, focused gaze, indicating that what John is about to describe is of great significance. The act of seeing in apocalyptic literature often implies understanding or receiving divine insight, underscoring the importance of the vision that follows.

a pale horse
The color "pale" (χλωρός, chloros) in Greek can also mean greenish or ashen, evoking the color of a corpse. This imagery is stark and unsettling, symbolizing death and decay. In the context of the Four Horsemen, the pale horse represents the culmination of the previous judgments, bringing forth the ultimate consequence of sin and rebellion against God.

Its rider’s name was Death
The personification of Death as a rider emphasizes the inevitability and universality of death. In the biblical context, Death is not merely a cessation of life but a spiritual enemy, as seen in 1 Corinthians 15:26, where death is described as the last enemy to be destroyed. This rider signifies the power and reach of death over humanity, a reminder of the fallen state of the world.

and Hades followed close behind
Hades, in Greek mythology, is the realm of the dead, akin to Sheol in Hebrew thought. Its mention here signifies not just physical death but also the spiritual consequence of separation from God. The close following of Hades suggests that death is not the end but leads to a further state of existence, highlighting the urgency of repentance and faith in Christ for eternal life.

They were given authority over a fourth of the earth
The phrase "given authority" indicates that the power of Death and Hades is permitted by God, emphasizing His sovereignty even over judgment. The fraction "a fourth" suggests a limited but significant impact, serving as a warning and a call to repentance. It reflects God's mercy, as the judgment is not total, allowing time for humanity to turn back to Him.

to kill by sword, by famine, by plague, and by the beasts of the earth
These four methods of death echo the covenant curses found in Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28, where disobedience leads to such calamities. The "sword" represents war and violence, "famine" indicates scarcity and economic collapse, "plague" suggests disease and pestilence, and "beasts of the earth" imply chaos in creation. Together, they depict a comprehensive judgment, reminding believers of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption through Christ. This serves as a sobering reminder of the fallen world's reality and the hope of restoration through Jesus.

And when the Lamb opened the fifth seal
The "Lamb" refers to Jesus Christ, depicted as the sacrificial Lamb who is worthy to open the seals of the scroll, a symbol of divine authority and revelation. The opening of the "fifth seal" signifies a new phase in the unfolding of God's plan for the end times. The number five in biblical numerology often represents grace, and here it introduces a scene of martyrdom, highlighting the grace given to those who suffer for their faith.

I saw under the altar
The "altar" in this context is reminiscent of the altar of sacrifice in the Old Testament tabernacle and temple, where sacrifices were made to atone for sin. The imagery of souls "under the altar" suggests a place of honor and protection, indicating that their sacrifice is recognized and valued by God. This aligns with the ancient practice where the blood of sacrifices was poured at the base of the altar, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice of these martyrs.

the souls of those who had been slain
The "souls" here represent the immaterial essence of the martyrs, emphasizing their continued existence and consciousness after death. The phrase "had been slain" indicates that these individuals were killed for their faith, echoing the historical persecution of Christians throughout the ages. This martyrdom is a testament to their unwavering commitment to Christ, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the cost of discipleship.

for the word of God
This phrase underscores the reason for their martyrdom: their steadfast adherence to the "word of God." It highlights the centrality of Scripture in the life of a believer and the willingness to suffer for its truth. Historically, many have faced persecution for upholding biblical teachings, and this passage honors their sacrifice.

and for the testimony they had upheld
The "testimony" refers to the witness of their faith in Jesus Christ. To "uphold" this testimony means to maintain it with integrity and courage, even in the face of death. This phrase reflects the call for Christians to be faithful witnesses, as seen throughout the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to stand firm in their faith despite trials and tribulations.

And they cried out with a loud voice
The phrase "cried out" in the original Greek is "ekraxan," which conveys a sense of urgent, passionate pleading. This is not a mere whisper or quiet prayer; it is a loud, desperate cry that echoes the deep anguish and longing for justice. The "loud voice" signifies the intensity and unity of their plea, emphasizing the collective suffering and earnestness of the martyrs. Historically, this reflects the cries of the persecuted church throughout the ages, who have sought divine intervention and justice.

How long, O Lord
The question "How long" is a poignant expression found throughout Scripture, particularly in the Psalms, where the faithful cry out for God's intervention in times of distress. It reflects a deep yearning for God's righteous judgment and the fulfillment of His promises. The use of "O Lord" here is significant, as it acknowledges God's sovereignty and authority. The Greek word "Despotes" used for "Lord" implies a master or ruler, highlighting the martyrs' recognition of God's ultimate control over history and justice.

holy and true
These attributes of God, "holy and true," are central to His character. "Holy" denotes God's absolute purity and separation from sin, while "true" underscores His faithfulness and reliability. In the context of Revelation, these attributes assure the martyrs that God is both morally perfect and trustworthy. Historically, this assurance would have been a source of comfort to early Christians facing persecution, reminding them that God's nature guarantees the eventual triumph of justice.

until You avenge our blood
The plea for God to "avenge our blood" is a call for divine justice. In the ancient world, blood was seen as the life force, and the shedding of innocent blood cried out for retribution. The Greek word "ekdikeo" implies a legal vindication, a setting right of wrongs. This reflects the biblical principle that vengeance belongs to God (Deuteronomy 32:35, Romans 12:19). The martyrs' request is not for personal revenge but for God's righteous judgment to be enacted, affirming His justice and the moral order of the universe.

on those who dwell on the earth?
The phrase "those who dwell on the earth" is often used in Revelation to describe those who are opposed to God and His people. It signifies a worldly, rebellious mindset that stands in contrast to the heavenly citizenship of believers. This distinction highlights the tension between the kingdom of God and the kingdoms of this world. Historically, this would resonate with early Christians who faced hostility from earthly powers, reinforcing the hope that God's justice will ultimately prevail over all earthly opposition.

Then each of them was given a white robe
The "white robe" symbolizes purity, victory, and righteousness. In the Greek, the word for "white" is "λευκός" (leukos), which often signifies purity and holiness in biblical literature. The robe is a gift from God, representing the righteousness of the saints who have been martyred for their faith. Historically, white garments were worn by those who had triumphed in battle or games, signifying victory. In the context of Revelation, it underscores the spiritual triumph of the martyrs over evil, affirming their place in the heavenly realm.

and told to rest a little while longer
The phrase "rest a little while longer" indicates a period of waiting and patience. The Greek word for "rest" is "ἀναπαύω" (anapauō), which can mean to cease from labor or to be refreshed. This rest is not merely a cessation of activity but a divine assurance of peace and comfort. The martyrs are called to wait for God's perfect timing, reflecting the biblical theme of divine patience and the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan. This waiting period is a testament to God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His divine justice.

until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers
The "full number" suggests a predetermined plan and purpose in God's divine economy. The Greek term "πληρόω" (plēroō) implies completion or fulfillment. This indicates that God has a specific plan for the number of martyrs, emphasizing His omniscience and the meticulous unfolding of His will. The "fellow servants" and "brothers" refer to other believers who will also face persecution and martyrdom. This highlights the communal aspect of the Christian faith, where believers are united in their suffering and ultimate victory in Christ.

were killed, just as they had been
The phrase "were killed, just as they had been" underscores the reality of martyrdom in the early Christian church. The Greek word for "killed" is "ἀποκτείνω" (apokteinō), which means to put to death. This reflects the historical context of persecution faced by early Christians, who were often martyred for their unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. The phrase serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship and the call to remain faithful even unto death. It also points to the ultimate justice of God, who will vindicate His people and bring about His righteous judgment.

And when the Lamb opened the sixth seal
The "Lamb" refers to Jesus Christ, depicted as the sacrificial Lamb who is worthy to open the seals of the scroll (Revelation 5:5-7). This imagery is deeply rooted in the Passover lamb of Exodus, symbolizing deliverance and sacrifice. The "sixth seal" is part of a series of judgments that unfold in the book of Revelation. The number six often represents imperfection or incompleteness in biblical numerology, just short of the divine number seven, which signifies completion and perfection. The opening of this seal indicates a significant escalation in the divine judgments being revealed.

there was a great earthquake
Earthquakes in Scripture often symbolize God's powerful intervention in human affairs. The Greek word for earthquake, "seismos," can also mean a shaking or commotion, indicating a profound disturbance. Historically, earthquakes have been seen as acts of divine judgment or as signs of God's presence, as seen in Exodus 19:18 when Mount Sinai quaked. This "great earthquake" signifies a cataclysmic event, underscoring the severity of the judgment and the shaking of both the physical and spiritual realms.

the sun became black like sackcloth of goat hair
The sun turning black is a vivid apocalyptic image, symbolizing a dramatic change or judgment. Sackcloth, made from coarse goat hair, was traditionally worn in times of mourning or repentance (Genesis 37:34, Jonah 3:5). The blackening of the sun suggests a period of mourning and divine judgment, a cosmic sign that the natural order is being disrupted. This imagery echoes Old Testament prophecies, such as Joel 2:31, which speaks of the sun turning to darkness before the "great and dreadful day of the LORD."

and the whole moon turned blood red
The moon turning "blood red" is another apocalyptic sign, often associated with impending judgment or significant change. The color red, especially in the context of blood, can symbolize both life and death, sacrifice and judgment. This imagery is reminiscent of Joel 2:31 and Acts 2:20, where the moon turning to blood is a precursor to the "day of the Lord." The transformation of the moon into blood red serves as a stark warning of the severity and imminence of God's judgment, calling for repentance and readiness for the unfolding divine plan.

and the stars of the sky
The phrase "stars of the sky" in the original Greek is "ἀστέρες τοῦ οὐρανοῦ" (asteres tou ouranou). In biblical symbolism, stars often represent celestial beings or angels, as seen in Job 38:7 and Revelation 1:20. The imagery of stars falling suggests a cosmic disturbance, indicating a significant divine intervention or judgment. Historically, stars have been seen as fixed and constant, so their falling signifies a dramatic upheaval in the natural order, aligning with prophetic literature that speaks of end-times chaos.

fell to the earth
The Greek word for "fell" is "ἔπεσαν" (epesan), which conveys a sudden and forceful descent. This action implies a loss of position or status, often associated with judgment or calamity. In the context of Revelation, this falling is not merely a physical event but a symbolic act of divine retribution. The earth, in biblical terms, is often the stage for God's redemptive and judgmental acts, and the falling of stars to the earth signifies the impending judgment upon humanity.

like unripe figs dropping
The comparison to "unripe figs" uses the Greek "σῦκα ὄλυνθα" (syka olyntha), referring to figs that are not yet mature. In the ancient world, figs were a common fruit, and their premature falling was seen as a sign of a poor harvest or impending disaster. This imagery suggests suddenness and inevitability, as unripe figs fall easily when shaken. It reflects the unexpected and unavoidable nature of the events described, emphasizing the urgency of repentance and readiness for the coming judgment.

from a tree shaken by a great wind
The "tree" and "great wind" are powerful symbols. The Greek word for "shaken" is "σειόμενον" (seiomenon), indicating a violent disturbance. Trees, often representing nations or people in biblical literature (e.g., Daniel 4:10-12), when shaken by a "great wind" (μέγας ἄνεμος, megas anemos), suggest divine intervention. The "great wind" can be seen as a metaphor for God's powerful and sovereign will, which disrupts the established order to bring about His purposes. This imagery calls believers to recognize the sovereignty of God over creation and history, urging them to trust in His ultimate plan despite the apparent chaos.

The sky receded like a scroll being rolled up
This phrase evokes a powerful image of cosmic transformation. The Greek word for "sky" here is "οὐρανός" (ouranos), which can refer to the heavens or the firmament. In ancient Jewish cosmology, the sky was seen as a solid dome over the earth, and the imagery of it "receding" suggests a dramatic unveiling or revelation of divine realities. The metaphor of a "scroll being rolled up" is significant; scrolls were the primary medium for written communication in the ancient world, and rolling them up signified the conclusion of a message or the concealment of its contents. This imagery suggests the end of an era or the completion of God's revelation, aligning with the apocalyptic nature of Revelation. It signifies the transition from the current world order to the new creation promised in Scripture.

and every mountain and island was moved from its place
Mountains and islands are often symbols of stability and permanence in the Bible. The Greek word for "mountain" is "ὄρος" (oros), and for "island," it is "νῆσος" (nēsos). The movement of these seemingly immovable objects signifies a profound upheaval in the natural order. Historically, mountains were seen as places of divine encounter, such as Mount Sinai or Mount Zion, and their displacement indicates a shift in the spiritual landscape. Islands, often isolated and self-contained, represent the far reaches of the earth. The phrase "moved from its place" suggests a divine intervention that disrupts the status quo, emphasizing God's sovereignty over creation. This upheaval is a precursor to the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom, where all creation is renewed and restored. The imagery serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly things and the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Then the kings of the earth
The phrase "kings of the earth" refers to the rulers and leaders who hold power and authority over nations. In the Greek, "basileis" (kings) signifies those who are sovereigns or monarchs. Historically, kings have been seen as the ultimate earthly authority, often considered as representatives of divine will. In the context of Revelation, these kings are depicted as being subject to the ultimate authority of God, highlighting the theme that no earthly power can withstand the divine judgment.

the nobles
The term "nobles" refers to those of high birth or rank, often associated with aristocracy. The Greek word "megistanes" is used here, indicating individuals of significant influence and status. This inclusion emphasizes that social standing and human honor will not exempt anyone from the coming judgment. It serves as a reminder that all are equal before God, regardless of earthly titles.

the commanders
"Commanders" translates from the Greek "chiliarchoi," meaning leaders of a thousand soldiers, or military leaders. This highlights the military might and strategic power that will be rendered powerless in the face of divine wrath. Historically, military leaders have been seen as protectors and enforcers of a nation's will, yet here they are depicted as unable to protect even themselves.

the rich
The "rich" are those who possess wealth and material abundance. The Greek word "plousioi" is used, which denotes affluence and prosperity. In biblical terms, wealth is often seen as a potential barrier to spiritual humility and dependence on God. This phrase underscores the futility of relying on material wealth for security in the face of God's judgment.

the mighty
"Mighty" refers to those with great power or strength, translated from the Greek "ischyroi." This term encompasses both physical strength and influential power. Historically, the mighty have been revered and feared, yet Revelation reveals that true power belongs to God alone, and human strength is insufficient against His will.

and every slave and free man
This phrase includes all individuals, regardless of social status, emphasizing the universality of the coming judgment. The Greek words "doulos" (slave) and "eleutheros" (free) highlight the comprehensive nature of God's reach. In the ancient world, these terms defined one's social and economic status, yet here they illustrate that divine justice is impartial and all-encompassing.

hid in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains
The act of hiding "in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains" symbolizes the desperation and fear that will grip humanity. The Greek "kryptein" (to hide) conveys a sense of seeking refuge or concealment. Throughout history, mountains and caves have been seen as places of safety and refuge. However, in this context, they represent the futility of trying to escape God's presence. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder that there is no hiding from divine judgment, and it calls believers to seek refuge in God alone.

And they said to the mountains and the rocks
This phrase captures a moment of desperation and fear. The Greek word for "said" (εἶπαν) indicates a plea or a command, reflecting the urgency and terror of those speaking. The invocation of "mountains and the rocks" is symbolic, representing the natural world as a refuge. Historically, mountains and caves have been places of hiding and protection, especially in times of war or divine judgment. This imagery is consistent with Old Testament passages, such as Hosea 10:8, where people call upon the mountains to cover them in times of distress.

Fall on us
The plea for the mountains and rocks to "fall on us" is a vivid expression of the desire to escape the impending wrath. The Greek word for "fall" (πέσετε) conveys a sense of suddenness and finality. This reflects the overwhelming fear of those facing divine judgment, preferring physical destruction over facing the wrath of God. It echoes the human instinct to seek any form of escape when confronted with the reality of divine justice.

and hide us
The desire to be "hidden" underscores the shame and terror of those who are unprepared to face God. The Greek word for "hide" (κρύψατε) suggests a deep yearning for concealment, akin to Adam and Eve hiding from God in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:8). This reflects the universal human condition of sin and the instinct to hide from the holiness of God when confronted with our own unworthiness.

from the face of Him who sits on the throne
This phrase identifies the source of the fear: the presence of God Himself. The "face" (προσώπου) of God is a powerful biblical motif, representing His presence and glory. In the Old Testament, seeing God's face was often associated with judgment or blessing. Here, it is a source of terror for those who are not in right standing with Him. The "throne" (θρόνου) signifies God's sovereign authority and the inevitability of His righteous judgment.

and from the wrath of the Lamb
The juxtaposition of "wrath" (ὀργῆς) with "the Lamb" (τοῦ Ἀρνίου) is striking. The Lamb, typically a symbol of gentleness and sacrifice, here embodies righteous anger. This reflects the dual nature of Christ as both Savior and Judge. The wrath of the Lamb is not capricious but is a just response to sin and rebellion. It serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the necessity of repentance and faith in Christ for salvation.

For the great day
The phrase "the great day" refers to a specific time of divine intervention and judgment. In the Greek, "ἡ ἡμέρα ἡ μεγάλη" (hē hēmera hē megalē) emphasizes the magnitude and significance of this day. Historically, the "great day" is often associated with the "Day of the Lord," a concept found throughout the Old Testament, particularly in prophetic books like Joel and Zephaniah. This day is characterized by God's direct action in human history, bringing both judgment and salvation. It is a culmination of God's plan, a day anticipated by believers as a time of ultimate justice and redemption.

of their wrath
The term "wrath" in Greek is "ὀργή" (orgē), which signifies a strong, passionate anger. In the context of Revelation, this wrath is not arbitrary but is a righteous response to sin and rebellion against God. The "their" refers to the Lamb and the One who sits on the throne, indicating a shared divine judgment. This wrath is consistent with God's holy nature and His commitment to justice. Throughout Scripture, God's wrath is portrayed as a necessary aspect of His love and holiness, ensuring that evil is addressed and righteousness is upheld.

has come
The phrase "has come" in Greek is "ἦλθεν" (ēlthen), indicating an arrival or a point in time that has been reached. This suggests the inevitability and certainty of God's judgment. The use of the perfect tense in Greek implies that this event is not only imminent but has already been set in motion. It reflects the fulfillment of prophetic promises and the culmination of God's redemptive plan. The arrival of this day is a pivotal moment in the narrative of Revelation, marking a transition from grace to judgment.

and who is able to withstand it?
The question "who is able to withstand it?" is rhetorical, emphasizing the overwhelming power and authority of God's judgment. The Greek word for "withstand" is "ἵστημι" (histēmi), which means to stand firm or resist. This question underscores the futility of opposing God's will and the absolute nature of His sovereignty. In the broader biblical context, this echoes themes found in the Psalms and the Prophets, where the might of God is contrasted with human frailty. It serves as a sobering reminder of the need for repentance and reliance on God's mercy. The implied answer is that no one, apart from those who are in Christ, can withstand the righteous judgment of God. This calls believers to a posture of humility and trust in the saving work of Jesus, who alone provides refuge from the coming wrath.