Revelation 12:8

Authorized King James Version

And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οὐκ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἴσχυσαν,

G2480

prevailed

to have (or exercise) force (literally or figuratively)

οὐτὲ

G3777

neither

not too, i.e., neither or nor; by analogy, not even

τόπος

G5117

was their place

a spot (general in space, but limited by occupancy; whereas g5561 is a large but participle locality), i.e., location (as a position, home, tract, etc

εὑρέθη

G2147

found

to find (literally or figuratively)

αὐτῶν

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ἔτι

G2089

any more

"yet," still (of time or degree)

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#10

τῷ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#11

οὐρανῷ

G3772

heaven

the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)

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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does the kingdom of God theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this verse's literary context within Revelation chapter 12 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?