Revelation 12:13

Authorized King James Version

And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.

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
ὅτε
G3753
when
at which (thing) too, i.e., when
#3
εἶδεν
G1492
saw
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#4
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
δράκων
G1404
the dragon
a fabulous kind of serpent (perhaps as supposed to fascinate)
#6
ὅτι
G3754
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#7
ἐβλήθη
G906
he was cast
to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense)
#8
εἰς
G1519
unto
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#9
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
γῆν
G1093
the earth
soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)
#11
ἐδίωξεν
G1377
he persecuted
compare the base of g1169 and g1249); to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute
#12
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
γυναῖκα
G1135
the woman
a woman; specially, a wife
#14
ἥτις
G3748
which
which some, i.e., any that; also (definite) which same
#15
ἔτεκεν
G5088
brought forth
to produce (from seed, as a mother, a plant, the earth, etc.), literally or figuratively
#16
τὸν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
ἄῤῥενα
G730
the man
male (as stronger for lifting)

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

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