Revelation 14:12

Authorized King James Version

Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὧδε
Here
in this same spot, i.e., here or hither
#2
ὑπομονὴ
the patience
cheerful (or hopeful) endurance, constancy
#3
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
ἁγίων
G40
of the saints
sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)
#5
ἐστίν·
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#6
ὧδε
Here
in this same spot, i.e., here or hither
#7
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
τηροῦντες
are they that keep
to guard (from loss or injury, properly, by keeping the eye upon; and thus differing from g5442, which is properly to prevent escaping; and from g2892
#9
τὰς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ἐντολὰς
the commandments
injunction, i.e., an authoritative prescription
#11
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
θεοῦ
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#13
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#14
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
πίστιν
the faith
persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ
#16
Ἰησοῦ
of Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to Revelation. The concept of faith reflects the ultimate establishment of divine rule over creation. The divine name or title here functions within apocalyptic literature revealing God's ultimate victory to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes pistis in Greek, encompassing both belief and faithfulness, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 faith in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection