Revelation 11:3

Authorized King James Version

And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.

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
δώσω
G1325
I will give
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#3
τοῖς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
δυσὶν
G1417
two
"two"
#5
μάρτυσίν
G3144
witnesses
a witness (literally (judicially) or figuratively (genitive case)); by analogy, a "martyr"
#6
μου
G3450
power unto my
of me
#7
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#8
προφητεύσουσιν
G4395
they shall prophesy
to foretell events, divine, speak under inspiration, exercise the prophetic office
#9
ἡμέρας
G2250
days
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
#10
χιλίας
G5507
a thousand
a thousand
#11
διακοσίας
G1250
two hundred
two hundred
#12
ἑξήκοντα
G1835
and threescore
sixty
#13
περιβεβλημένοι
G4016
clothed in
to throw all around, i.e., invest (with a palisade or with clothing)
#14
σάκκους
G4526
sackcloth
"sack"-cloth, i.e., mohair (the material or garments made of it, worn as a sign of grief)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Revelation, this passage highlights kingdom of God through universal language and absolute statements. 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

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish apocalyptic literature using symbolic imagery to convey hope shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of kingdom of God within the theological tradition of Revelation Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection