Topical Encyclopedia
The Seven Trumpets are a series of apocalyptic events described in the Book of Revelation, chapters 8 through 11. These trumpets are sounded by seven angels and herald a sequence of divine judgments upon the earth, serving as a call to repentance and a demonstration of God's sovereign power over creation. The imagery of trumpets in the Bible often signifies important announcements or divine interventions, and in the context of Revelation, they are part of the larger narrative of the end times.
First Trumpet (Revelation 8:7): The first angel sounds his trumpet, and there is a catastrophic event involving hail and fire mixed with blood, which is thrown upon the earth. This results in a third of the earth being burned up, along with a third of the trees and all green grass. This judgment echoes the plagues of Egypt and signifies a partial but severe destruction of the natural world.
Second Trumpet (Revelation 8:8-9): The second trumpet brings about a great mountain burning with fire being cast into the sea. A third of the sea turns to blood, a third of the living creatures in the sea die, and a third of the ships are destroyed. This judgment affects the maritime world, symbolizing economic and ecological disaster.
Third Trumpet (Revelation 8:10-11): Upon the sounding of the third trumpet, a great star named Wormwood falls from heaven, poisoning a third of the rivers and springs of water. Many people die from the bitter waters. The name "Wormwood" suggests bitterness and sorrow, indicating a judgment that brings widespread suffering and death.
Fourth Trumpet (Revelation 8:12): The fourth trumpet results in a third of the sun, moon, and stars being struck, causing a third of the day and night to be without light. This celestial darkening signifies a disruption of the natural order and serves as a forewarning of the intensified judgments to come.
Fifth Trumpet (First Woe) (Revelation 9:1-12): The fifth trumpet, also known as the first woe, releases a star fallen from heaven, which is given the key to the abyss. From the abyss comes smoke and locusts with the power to torment those without the seal of God on their foreheads for five months. These locusts are described with terrifying imagery, symbolizing a demonic invasion that brings intense suffering.
Sixth Trumpet (Second Woe) (Revelation 9:13-21): The sixth trumpet releases four angels bound at the great river Euphrates, who lead an army of 200 million horsemen. A third of mankind is killed by plagues of fire, smoke, and sulfur. Despite the severity of this judgment, the rest of humanity does not repent of their sins, highlighting the hardness of human hearts.
Seventh Trumpet (Third Woe) (Revelation 11:15-19): The seventh trumpet signals the final woe and the culmination of God's kingdom. Loud voices in heaven proclaim, "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever" (
Revelation 11:15). This trumpet marks the transition to the final victory of God, the opening of the temple in heaven, and the revelation of the ark of His covenant. It is accompanied by lightning, rumblings, thunder, an earthquake, and a great hailstorm, signifying the majesty and power of God's ultimate reign.
The Seven Trumpets serve as a pivotal part of the eschatological narrative in Revelation, illustrating the progressive nature of divine judgment and the call for repentance. They underscore the themes of God's justice, the reality of spiritual warfare, and the hope of redemption for those who remain faithful.