The Fifth Seal, as described in the Book of Revelation, is a significant event in the apocalyptic vision given to the Apostle John. This seal is part of a series of seven seals that secure a scroll in the right hand of God, which only the Lamb, Jesus Christ, is worthy to open. The opening of each seal reveals a new aspect of God's divine plan for the end times.

Scriptural Reference:
The account of the Fifth Seal is found in Revelation 6:9-11 : "When the Lamb opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony they had upheld. And they cried out in a loud voice, 'How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You avenge our blood and judge those who dwell upon the earth?' Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to rest a little while longer, until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers, were killed, just as they had been."

Interpretation and Significance:
The opening of the Fifth Seal reveals a scene of profound spiritual and eschatological importance. The souls under the altar are identified as martyrs who have been slain for their steadfast commitment to the word of God and their unwavering testimony of faith. This imagery draws from the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, where the blood of sacrifices was poured out at the base of the altar (Exodus 29:12; Leviticus 4:7). The altar in this vision symbolizes the place of sacrifice and divine justice.

The cry of the martyrs, "How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You avenge our blood and judge those who dwell upon the earth?" reflects a deep yearning for divine justice and the fulfillment of God's promises. This plea is not one of personal vengeance but a call for God's righteous judgment against evil and the vindication of His faithful servants.

In response, each martyr is given a white robe, symbolizing purity, victory, and the righteousness of Christ imputed to believers. The white robe serves as a token of honor and assurance of their ultimate vindication. They are instructed to "rest a little while longer," indicating that God's timing is perfect and that His plan will unfold according to His divine wisdom.

The mention of a "full number" of fellow servants and brothers who are to be killed suggests that there is a predetermined number of martyrs who will complete the testimony of faith through their sacrifice. This concept underscores the sovereignty of God in the unfolding of history and the ultimate triumph of His kingdom.

Theological Themes:
1. Perseverance and Faithfulness: The Fifth Seal highlights the call for believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even unto death. The martyrs serve as exemplars of unwavering commitment to Christ, encouraging the faithful to endure trials and persecution.

2. Divine Justice and Sovereignty: The cry for justice and the assurance of God's righteous judgment affirm the belief in God's ultimate authority and His commitment to righting the wrongs of this world. The delay in judgment serves to fulfill God's redemptive purposes and the completion of His divine plan.

3. Hope and Assurance: The white robes given to the martyrs symbolize the hope of resurrection and eternal life. This assurance provides comfort to believers, reminding them that their suffering is not in vain and that they will be rewarded in God's eternal kingdom.

The Fifth Seal, therefore, serves as a powerful reminder of the cost of discipleship, the certainty of divine justice, and the hope of eternal glory for those who remain faithful to the end.