Revelation 15:1

Authorized King James Version

And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.

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
εἶδον
G1492
I 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
#3
ἄλλο
G243
another
"else," i.e., different (in many applications)
#4
σημεῖον
G4592
sign
an indication, especially ceremonially or supernaturally
#5
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#6
τῷ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
οὐρανῷ
G3772
heaven
the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)
#8
μέγα
G3173
great
big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)
#9
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
θαυμαστόν
G2298
marvellous
wondered at, i.e., (by implication) wonderful
#11
ἀγγέλους
G32
angels
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
#12
ἑπτὰ
G2033
seven
seven
#13
ἔχοντας
G2192
having
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#14
πληγὰς
G4127
plagues
a stroke; by implication, a wound; figuratively, a calamity
#15
ἑπτὰ
G2033
seven
seven
#16
τὰς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
ἐσχάτας
G2078
last
farthest, final (of place or time)
#18
ὅτι
G3754
for
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#19
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#20
αὐταῖς
G846
them
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
#21
ἐτελέσθη
G5055
is filled up
to end, i.e., complete, execute, conclude, discharge (a debt)
#22
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#23
θυμὸς
G2372
the wrath
passion (as if breathing hard)
#24
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#25
θεοῦ
G2316
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Revelation, this passage highlights judgment and justice through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout 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 judgment and justice 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection