Revelation 9:6

In those days men will seek death and will not find it; they will long to die, but death will escape them.

Study Bible

In those days
This phrase refers to a specific period during the end times, often interpreted as the Great Tribulation. The context of "those days" is crucial, as it signifies a time of unprecedented suffering and divine judgment. Historically, this period is seen as a fulfillment of prophetic warnings throughout Scripture, where God's wrath is poured out upon a rebellious world. The phrase emphasizes the immediacy and intensity of the events described in Revelation.

men will seek death
The Greek word for "seek" (ζητέω, zēteō) implies an earnest, desperate search. This reflects the extreme anguish and torment that people will experience, driving them to desire death as an escape. The historical context of this phrase can be linked to the plagues and judgments described earlier in Revelation, which cause immense suffering. Theologically, this seeking of death underscores the severity of God's judgment and the hopelessness of those who reject Him.

and will not find it
This phrase highlights the futility of the search for death. Despite their desperate desire, death eludes them. Theologically, this can be seen as a divine intervention where God, in His sovereignty, withholds death as a form of judgment. It serves as a stark reminder of God's control over life and death, and the inescapable nature of His decrees during the end times.

they will long to die
The word "long" (ἐπιθυμέω, epithymeō) conveys a deep, intense yearning. This longing for death is not merely a wish but an overwhelming desire driven by the unbearable circumstances. Historically, this reflects the ultimate despair and hopelessness that will characterize humanity's experience during the tribulation. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God.

but death will escape them
The phrase "death will escape them" suggests an active avoidance, as if death itself is fleeing from those who seek it. This can be interpreted as a supernatural occurrence, where God prevents death as part of His judgment. Theologically, it underscores the idea that life and death are in God's hands, and even in their suffering, people cannot escape His sovereign will. This serves as a powerful reminder of the ultimate authority of God over all creation, even in times of judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Men
Refers to humanity, specifically those who are experiencing the torment described in the preceding verses. This is a time of great suffering during the tribulation period.

2. Death
Personified in this context, indicating a state or event that people desire but cannot attain. It highlights the severity of the torment that makes death seem preferable.

3. The Tribulation
A period of intense suffering and divine judgment on earth, as described in the book of Revelation. This verse is part of the description of the fifth trumpet judgment.

4. The Fifth Trumpet
An event in the series of judgments in Revelation, where locust-like creatures torment those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads.

5. The Abyss
The bottomless pit from which the tormenting locusts emerge, symbolizing a place of chaos and evil.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Divine Judgment
Revelation 9:6 serves as a stark reminder of the reality and severity of divine judgment. It challenges us to consider the seriousness of sin and the consequences of rejecting God.

The Futility of Seeking Escape from God’s Judgment
The inability to find death despite seeking it illustrates the futility of trying to escape God's judgment. It calls us to repentance and to seek refuge in Christ, who offers salvation.

The Importance of Spiritual Readiness
This verse underscores the importance of being spiritually prepared. Believers are called to live in readiness for Christ's return, ensuring that they are sealed by God and protected from His wrath.

The Hope of the Gospel
While this verse depicts a grim reality, it also points to the hope found in the Gospel. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we can be spared from the wrath to come and have eternal life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Revelation 9:6 challenge our understanding of life and death from a biblical perspective?

2. In what ways does the longing for death in this verse reflect the spiritual state of those who reject God?

3. How can we apply the message of Revelation 9:6 to encourage others to seek salvation in Christ?

4. What other biblical passages can help us understand the nature of God’s judgment and mercy?

5. How does this verse motivate us to live in readiness for Christ’s return and to share the Gospel with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Job 3:21
Job's lamentation where he longs for death but it does not come, paralleling the desire for death in Revelation 9:6.

Jeremiah 8:3
Describes a time when death is preferred over life, similar to the longing for death in Revelation 9:6.

Luke 23:30
Jesus speaks of a time when people will call for the mountains to fall on them, indicating a desire to escape suffering.

Revelation 6:16
People call to the mountains and rocks to hide them from the wrath of the Lamb, showing a desire to escape divine judgment.