The Lamb ( το αρνιον ). See 5:6; 7:17; 12:11; 13:8 and is in contrast with the anarthrous  αρνιον in 13:11. This proleptic vision of the Lamb "standing on the mount Zion" ( εστος επ το ορος Σιων, second perfect active participle neuter of  ιστημ with  επ and accusative) is reasoning after the visions of the two beasts. Mount Zion is the site of the new city of God (Heb 12:22), the Jerusalem above (Ga 4:26), the seat of the Messianic Kingdom whether heaven or the new earth (Re 21; 22). These victors have the name of the Lamb and God upon their foreheads as in 3:12; 22:4, in place of the mark of the beast above (13:16; 14:11). This seal protects them (9:4).

A hundred and forty and four thousand ( εκατον τεσσερακοντα τεσσαρες χιλιαδες ). "Thousands" literally ( χιλιας feminine word for a thousand and so  εχουσα feminine plural). For the 144,000 see 7:5,8, though some scholars seek a distinction somehow.

As a voice of many waters ( ως φωνην υδατων πολλων ). For which see 1:15.

Of a great thunder ( βροντης μεγαλης ). For which see 6:1; 19:6. For this voice out of heaven see 10:4; 14:15; 18:4 and note accusative with  ηκουσα.

As the voice of harpers harping with their harps ( ως κιθαρωιδων κιθαριζοντων εν ταις κιθαραις αυτων ). Triple use of  κιθαρα (5:8),  κιθαρωιδων (18:22),  κιθαριζοντων (old verb  κιθαριζω, in N.T. only here and 1Co 14:7). Wonderful melody in this chorus by the angels, not by the 144,000.

They sing as it were a new song ( αιδουσιν ως ωιδην καινην ). See 5:9 for this phrase (cognate accusative) save that here  ως (as if) is added. There the new song was sung by the four living creatures and the elders, but here "before" ( ενωπιον ) them and so apparently by the throng who were themselves redeemed by the Lamb.

No man could learn the song save ( ουδεις εδυνατο μαθειν την ωιδην ε μη ). Imperfect ( εδυνατο ) of  δυναμα and second aorist (ingressive) active infinitive of  μανθανω. In 5:9-12 the angels join in the song. In 15:3 it is the Song of Moses and the Lamb.

Even they that had been purchased out of the earth ( ο ηγορασμενο απο της γης ). Perfect passive articular participle of  αγοραζω, purchased by the blood of the Lamb (5:9), masculine plural in apposition with  χιλιαδες (thousands) feminine plural (7:5,8; 14:1).  Απο (from) here, though  εκ (out of) in 5:9. The 144,000 are not yet separated from the earth (Joh 17:15). Whether the 144,000 here are identical with that number in 7:4-8 or not, they must embrace both men and women.

Were not defiled with women ( μετα γυναικων ουκ εμολυνθησαν ). First aorist passive indicative of  μολυνω, old verb, to stain, already in 3:4, which see. The use of this word rules out marriage, which was not considered sinful.

For they are virgins ( παρθενο γαρ εισιν ).  Παρθενος can be applied to men as well as women. Swete takes this language "metaphorically, as the symbolical character of the Book suggests." Charles considers it an interpolation in the interest of celibacy for both men and women. If taken literally, the words can refer only to adultery or fornication (Beckwith). Jesus recognised abstinence only for those able to receive it (Mt 19:12), as did Paul (1Co 7:1,8,32,36). Marriage is approved by Paul in 1Ti 4:3 and by Heb 13:4. The New Testament exalts marriage and this passage should not be construed as degrading it.

Whithersoever he goeth ( οπου αν υπαγε ). Indefinite local clause with modal  αν and the present active indicative of  υπαγω. The Christian life is following the Lamb of God as Jesus taught (Mr 2:14; 10:21; Lu 9:59; Joh 1:43; 21:19, etc.) and as Peter taught (1Pe 2:21) and John (1Jo 2:6).

Were purchased from among men ( ηγορασθησαν απο των ανθρωπων ). First aorist passive indicative of  αγοραζω, repeating the close of verse 3.

First fruits ( απαρχη ). See for this word 1Co 16:15; Ro 11:16; 16:5. This seems to mean that the 144,000 represent not the whole, but only a portion of the great harvest to come (Mt 9:37), not only the first installment, but those marked by high spiritual service to God and the Lamb (Ro 12:1; Heb 13:15; 1Pe 2:5).

Was found no lie ( ουχ ευρεθη ψευδος ). First aorist passive indicative of  ευρισκω. In 1Pe 2:23 this passage (Isa 53:9) is quoted with  δολος (deceit, guile) instead of  ψευδος (lie), but the difference is not great.

Without blemish ( αμωμο ). Alpha privative and  μωμος (blemish, spot). As Christ the Paschal Lamb is (1Pe 1:19; Heb 9:14), so the followers of the Lamb are to be in the end (Php 2:15).

Another angel ( αλλον αγγελον ). A new turn in the drama comes with each angel (7:2; 8:3,13; 10:1). Here the angel is seen "flying in mid heaven" ( πετομενον εν μεσουρανηματ ), while in 8:13 John heard him "flying in mid heaven" (genitive case of same participle, which see). This one is in the sight and hearing of all.

Having ( εχοντα ). Accusative singular agreeing with  αγγελον like  πετομενον (flying), but  λεγων in verse 7 is nominative, as if a new sentence like  λεγων in 4:1.

An eternal gospel ( ευαγγελιον αιωνιον ). The only use of  ευαγγελιον in John's writings, though the verb  ευαγγελισα (first aorist active infinitive epexegetical with  εχοντα like Joh 16:12) occurs here and in 10:7. Here it is not  το ευαγγελιον (the gospel), but merely a proclamation of God's eternal ( αιωνιος here alone in the Apocalypse, though common in the Fourth Gospel and I John) purpose. Origen even took this "eternal gospel" to be another book to be written! Note the double use of  επ (with accusative after  ευαγγελισα and the genitive with  γης ). See 5:9 for the races, etc.

And he saith ( λεγων ). See above.

Fear God ( φοβηθητε τον θεον ). First aorist passive (deponent) imperative of  φοβεομα, here transitive with the accusative as in Lu 12:5. It is a call to judgment with no hope offered except by implication (Ac 14:15ff.).

Give him glory ( δοτε αυτω δοξαν ). Second aorist active indicative of  διδωμ. For the phrase see 11:13.

The hour is come ( η ωρα ηλθεν ). Second aorist (prophetic use) active indicative of  ερχομα. Common idiom in John's Gospel (2:4; 4:21,23; 5:25,28; 7:30, etc.).

Worship ( προσκυνησατε ). First aorist active imperative of  προσκυνεω with the dative case. Solemn call to the pagan world to worship God as Creator (4:11; 10:6), as in Ps 96:6; Ac 14:15. For "the fountains of waters" see 8:10.

Another, a second angel ( αλλος δευτερος αγγελος ). This second angel "followed" ( ηκολουθησεν, first aorist active indicative of  ακολουθεω ) and interpreted in part the first one.

Fallen, fallen ( επεσεν, επεσεν ). Prophetic aorist active indicative of  πιπτω, repeated as a solemn dirge announcing the certainty of the fall. The English participle "fallen, fallen" is more musical and rhythmical than the literal rendering "fell, fell." The language is an echo of Isa 21:9, though B in the LXX has  πεπτωκεν, πεπτωκεν (perfect).

Babylon the great ( Βαβυλων η μαγαλη ). The adjective  μεγαλη occurs with  Βαβυλων each time in the Apocalypse (14:8; 16:19; 17:5; 18:2,10,21) as a reminder of Nebuchadrezzar. There is no doubt that Rome is meant by Babylon, as is probably seen already in 1Pe 5:13. As a prisoner in Patmos John can speak his mind by this symbolism.

Hath made to drink ( πεποτικεν ). Perfect active indicative of  ποτιζω, old causative verb (from  ποτος drinking, 1Pe 4:3), as in Mt 25:35. The remarkable phrase that follows seems based on Jer 51:8 (Jer 25:15). It is a combination also of Re 14:10 (the wine of God's wrath, also in 16:19; 19:15) and 17:2. There is no doubt of the dissoluteness of the old Babylon of Jeremiah's day as of the Rome of John's time. Rome is pictured as the great courtesan who intoxicates and beguiles the nations to fornication (17:2,4,6), but the cup of God's wrath for her and her paramours is full (14:10; 16:19; 18:2).

A third ( τριτος ). "The third of this succession of herald angels denounces the Caesar-worshippers" (Swete). Cf. 13:12ff. This counter proclamation (verses 9-12) warns those tempted to yield to the threats of the second beast about boycott and death (13:11-17).

If any man worshippeth the beast and his image ( ε τις προσκυνε το θηριον κα την εικονα αυτου ). Condition of first class challenging those afraid of the beast. Note accusative ( θηριον ) after  προσκυνε, not dative as in verse 7.

And receiveth a mark ( κα λαμβανε χαραγμα ). Carries on the same condition and picks up the very language of 13:16. These Caesar-worshippers are guilty of an "eternal sin" (Mr 3:29).

He also shall drink ( κα αυτος πιετα ). Future middle of  πινω. Certainty for him as for Babylon and her paramours (16:17).

Of the wine of the wrath of God ( εκ του οινου του θυμου του θεου ). Note  εκ (partitive) after  πιετα. In 16:19; 19:15 we have both  θυμου and  οργης (wrath of the anger of God). The white heat of God's anger, held back through the ages, will be turned loose.

Prepared unmixed ( του κεκερασμενου ακρατου ). A bold and powerful oxymoron, "the mixed unmixed."  Ακρατος is an old adjective (alpha privative and  κεραννυμ to mix) used of wine unmixed with water (usually so mixed), here only in N.T. So it is strong wine mixed (perfect passive participle of  κεραννυμ ) with spices to make it still stronger (cf. Ps 75:9).

In the cup of his anger ( εν τω ποτηριω της οργης αυτου ). Both  θυμος (vehement fury) and  οργη (settled indignation).

He shall be tormented ( βασανισθησετα ). Future passive of  βασανιζω. See 9:5; 11:10.

With fire and brimstone ( εν πυρ κα θειω ). See 9:17 for fire and brimstone and also 19:20; 20:10; 21:8. The imagery is already in Ge 19:24; Isa 30:33; Eze 38:22.

In the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb ( ενωπιον αγγελων αγιων κα ενωπιον του αρνιου ). This holy environment adds to the punishment.

The smoke of their torment ( ο καπνος του βασανισμου αυτων ). See 9:5 for  βασανισμος, only there it was a limited penalty, here it is "for ever and ever" ( εις αιωνας αιωνων, unto ages of ages). See also 18:9; 19:3; 20:10.

They have no rest ( ουκ εχουσιν αναπαυσιν ). The very language used in 4:8 of the four living creatures in praising God. "Those who desert Christ for Caesar will be the victims of a remorse that never dies or sleeps" (Swete). The rest of the verse repeats the solemn challenge of verse 9.

Here is the patience of the saints ( Hωδε η υπομονη των αγιων εστιν ). John's own comment as in 13:10; 17:9. In this struggle against emperor worship lay their opportunity (Ro 5:3). It was a test of loyalty to Christ.

They that keep ( ο τηρουντες ). In apposition with  των αγιων (genitive), though nominative, a frequent anacoluthon in this book (2:20, etc.). Cf. 12:17.

The faith of Jesus ( την πιστιν Ιησου ). "The faith in Jesus" (objective genitive) as in 2:13; Mr 11:22; Jas 2:1.

Write ( Γραψον ). First aorist active imperative of  γραφω as in 1:11. John's meditation is broken by this command. This new beatitude ( μακαριο, Blessed) for the Christian dead goes farther than Paul's words (1Th 4:14-16; 1Co 15:18). Probably "from henceforth" ( απ' αρτ ) goes with "those who die in the Lord," giving comfort to those facing persecution and death.

That they may rest ( ινα αναπαησοντα ). Purpose clause with  ινα and the second future passive of  αναπαυω.

From their labours ( εκ των κοπων αυτων ). From the toils, the wearinesses, but not from the activities ( εργα ), for these "follow with them." There is this to comfort us for all our growth here. Even if cut short, it can be utilized in heaven, which is not a place of idleness, but of the highest form of spiritual service.

A white cloud ( νεφελη λευκη ). Like the "bright cloud" of Mt 17:5 (Transfiguration), a familiar object in the Mediterranean lands. See Da 7:13; Mt 24:30; 26:64; Ac 1:9,11 for the picture of Christ's return.

I saw one sitting ( καθημενον ). No  ειδον here, but the accusative follows the  ειδον at the beginning, as  νεφελη is nominative after  ιδου, as in 4:1,4.

Like unto a son of man ( ομοιον υιον ανθρωπου ). Accusative here after  ομοιον as in 1:13, instead of the usual associative instrumental (13:4).

Having ( εχων ). Nominative again after the  ιδου construction, just before, not after,  ειδον.

A golden crown ( στεφανον χρυσουν ). Here a golden wreath, not the diadems of 19:12.

A sharp sickle ( δρεπανον οξυ ). Old form  δρεπανη (from  δρεπω, to pluck), pruning-hook, in N.T. only in this chapter and Mr 4:29. Christ is come for reaping this time (Heb 9:28) for the harvesting of earth (verses 15-17). The priesthood of Christ is the chief idea in 1:12-20 and "as the true Imperator" (Swete) in chapter Re 19.

Send forth ( πεμψον ). First aorist (urgency) active imperative of  πεμπω. "Thrust in thy sickle now," this angel urges Christ.

And reap ( κα θερισον ). First aorist (urgency) active imperative of  θεριζω, old verb (from  θερος, summer), as in Mt 6:26. See verse 7 for "the hour is come."  Θερισα (to reap) is epexegetical infinitive (first aorist active of  θεριζω ).

The harvest ( ο θερισμος ). Old, but rare word (from  θεριζω, to harvest), as in Mt 13:30; Joh 4:35, here only in Revelation.

Is over-ripe ( εξηρανθη ). First aorist (prophetic as in 10:17; 15:1) passive of  ξηραινω (cf. Jas 1:11), to wither, to dry up. Perhaps just "ripe," not "over-ripe." Cf. Joe 1:17.

Cast ( εβαλεν ). Second aorist active indicative of  βαλλω. No violence by the use of  εβαλεν as is seen in Mt 10:34 ( βαλειν ειρηνην, to bring peace).

Was reaped ( εθερισθη ). First aorist passive indicative of  θεριζω. Both prophetic aorists again. Christ puts in the sickle as he wills with his own agents (Mt 9:37f.; 13:39,41).

He also ( κα αυτος ). As well as the Reaper on the cloud. This is the fifth angel who is God's messenger from heaven (temple where God dwells). This fifth angel with his sharp sickle is to gather the vintage (18-20) as Christ did the wheat.

Another angel ( αλλος αγγελος ). The fifth angel above Swete terms "the Angel of vengeance." He responds to the call of the sixth angel here as Christ does to the call of the fourth angel in verse 15.

Out from the altar ( εκ του θυσιαστηριου ). From the altar of incense where he is in charge of the fire ( εξουσιαν επ του πυρος ). If it is the altar of burnt offering (6:9; 11:1), we are reminded of the blood of the martyrs (Swete), but if the altar of incense (8:3,5; 9:13; 16:7), then of the prayers of the saints.

The sharp sickle ( το δρεπανον το οξυ ). Useful for vintage as for harvesting. So "send forth" ( πεμψον ) as in verse 15.

Gather ( τρυγησον ). First aorist active imperative of  τρυγαω, old verb (from  τρυγη dryness, ripeness), in N.T. only Re 15:18f. and Lu 6:44.

The clusters ( τους βοτρυας ). Old word  βοτρυς, here only in N.T. (Ge 40:10).

Her grapes ( α σταφυλα αυτης ). Old word again for grapes, bunch of grapes, in N.T. only here, Mt 7:16; Lu 6:44.

Are fully ripe ( ηκμασαν ). Old and common verb (from  ακμη, Mt 15:16), to come to maturity, to reach its acme, here only in N.T.

Cast ( εβαλεν ). As in verse 16.

Gathered ( ετρυγησεν ). Like  εθερισθη in verse 16, in obedience to the instructions in verse 18 ( τρυγησον ).

The vintage of the earth ( την αμπελον της γης ). "The vine of the earth." Here  αμπελος is used for the enemies of Christ collectively pictured.

And cast it ( εβαλεν ). Repeating  εβαλεν and referring to  αμπελον (vintage) just before.

Into the winepress the great winepress ( εις την ληνον τον μεγαν ).  Ληνος is either feminine as in verse 20; 19:15, or masculine sometimes in ancient Greek. Here we have both genders, a solecism frequent in the Apocalypse (21:14  το τειχος εχων ). See Mt 21:33. For this metaphor of God s wrath see 14:10; 15:1,7; 16:1,19; 19:15.

Was trodden ( επατηθη ). First aorist passive indicative of  πατεω, to tread. The image of treading out the grapes is a familiar one in the East. Perhaps Isa 63:3 is in mind.

Without the city ( εξωθεν της πολεως ). Ablative case with  εξωθεν (like  εξω ). This was the usual place (Heb 13:12). See  εξωθεν in 11:2. Joel (Joe 3:12) pictures the valley of Jehoshaphat as the place of the slaughter of God's enemies. Cf. Zec 14:4.

Blood from the winepress ( αιμα εκ της ληνου ). Bold imagery suggested by the colour of the grapes.

Unto the bridles ( αχρ των χαλινων ). Old word (from  χαλαω to slacken), in N.T. only here and Jas 3:3. Bold picture.

As far as a thousand and six hundred furlongs ( απο σταδιων χιλιων εξακοσιων ). A peculiar use of  απο, for "distance from (of)" as also in Joh 11:18; 21:8, somewhat like the use of  προ in Joh 12:1. The distance itself covers the length of Palestine, but it is more likely that "the metaphor is worked out with the exuberance of apocalyptic symbolism" (Swete) for the whole earth.