Revelation 11:14

Authorized King James Version

The second woe is past; and, behold, the third woe cometh quickly.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
οὐαὶ
woe
woe
#3
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
δευτέρα
The second
(ordinal) second (in time, place, or rank; also adverb)
#5
ἀπῆλθεν·
is past
to go off (i.e., depart), aside (i.e., apart) or behind (i.e., follow), literally or figuratively
#6
ἰδού,
and behold
used as imperative lo!
#7
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
οὐαὶ
woe
woe
#9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
τρίτη
the third
third; neuter (as noun) a third part, or (as adverb) a (or the) third time, thirdly
#11
ἔρχεται
cometh
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#12
ταχύ
quickly
shortly, i.e., without delay, soon, or (by surprise) suddenly, or (by implication, of ease) readily

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to Revelation. The concept of divine revelation reflects the ultimate establishment of divine rule over creation. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to apocalyptic literature revealing God's ultimate victory, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the Domitian persecution period (c. 95 CE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection