Revelation 10:3

Authorized King James Version

And cried with a loud voice, as when a lion roareth: and when he had cried, seven thunders uttered their voices.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
ἔκραξεν
G2896
cried
properly, to "croak" (as a raven) or scream, i.e., (genitive case) to call aloud (shriek, exclaim, intreat)
#3
φωνάς
G5456
voice
a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language
#4
μεγάλῃ
G3173
with a loud
big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)
#5
ὥσπερ
G5618
as
just as, i.e., exactly like
#6
λέων
G3023
when a lion
a "lion"
#7
μυκᾶται
G3455
roareth
to bellow (roar)
#8
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#9
ὅτε
G3753
when
at which (thing) too, i.e., when
#10
ἔκραξεν
G2896
cried
properly, to "croak" (as a raven) or scream, i.e., (genitive case) to call aloud (shriek, exclaim, intreat)
#11
ἐλάλησαν
G2980
uttered
to talk, i.e., utter words
#12
αἱ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
ἑπτὰ
G2033
seven
seven
#14
βρονταὶ
G1027
thunders
thunder
#15
τὰς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#16
ἑαυτῶν
G1438
their
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#17
φωνάς
G5456
voice
a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language

Analysis

Within the broader context of Revelation, this passage highlights kingdom of God through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Revelation.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within imperial persecution under Domitian's demand for emperor worship. The author writes to address persecuted Christians in Asia Minor facing pressure to compromise, making the emphasis on kingdom of God particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection