The phrase "Seven Thousand Killed" refers to a specific event mentioned in the Book of Revelation, a prophetic text in the New Testament of the Bible. This event is part of the apocalyptic visions revealed to the Apostle John while he was on the island of Patmos. The context of this event is found in Revelation 11, which describes the ministry, death, and resurrection of the two witnesses, as well as the subsequent judgment upon the city where they were killed.

Biblical Context

In Revelation 11:3-13, the two witnesses are described as prophesying for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth. These witnesses are endowed with divine authority and power, enabling them to perform miraculous signs and to defend themselves against their enemies. After their testimony is completed, the beast that ascends from the abyss makes war against them, overcomes them, and kills them. Their bodies lie in the street of the great city, which is symbolically called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified.

After three and a half days, the breath of life from God enters them, and they stand on their feet, causing great fear to fall upon those who see them. A loud voice from heaven calls them to ascend, and they rise to heaven in a cloud while their enemies watch.

The Earthquake and the Seven Thousand

Following the ascension of the two witnesses, Revelation 11:13 states: "And in that hour there was a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city collapsed. Seven thousand people were killed in the quake, and the rest were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven" . This earthquake serves as a divine judgment and a sign of God's power, leading to a moment of recognition and fear among the survivors.

Symbolic Interpretation

The number seven thousand, like many numbers in the Book of Revelation, is often interpreted symbolically. In biblical numerology, the number seven frequently represents completeness or perfection, suggesting that the judgment is both complete and divinely ordained. The specific mention of seven thousand people being killed may symbolize a significant, yet limited, judgment intended to provoke repentance and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the event of the seven thousand killed underscores the themes of divine justice and mercy. The destruction serves as a warning and a call to repentance for those who witness it. The survivors' response—giving glory to the God of heaven—indicates a moment of turning towards God, highlighting the possibility of redemption even amidst judgment.

This passage also reflects the broader eschatological themes present in Revelation, where God's ultimate victory over evil and the establishment of His kingdom are assured. The narrative of the two witnesses and the subsequent earthquake illustrate the tension between divine judgment and the opportunity for repentance, a recurring motif throughout the apocalyptic literature of the Bible.