Revelation 16:4

Authorized King James Version

And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountains of waters; and they became blood.

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
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
τρίτος
G5154
the third
third; neuter (as noun) a third part, or (as adverb) a (or the) third time, thirdly
#4
ἄγγελος
G32
angel
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
#5
ἐξέχεεν
G1632
poured out
to pour forth; figuratively, to bestow
#6
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
φιάλην
G5357
vial
a broad shallow cup ("phial")
#8
αὐτοῦ
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
#9
εἰς
G1519
upon
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#10
τοὺς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
ποταμοὺς
G4215
the rivers
a current, brook or freshet (as drinkable), i.e., running water
#12
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#13
εἰς
G1519
upon
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#14
τὰς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
πηγὰς
G4077
fountains
a fount (literally or figuratively), i.e., source or supply (of water, blood, enjoyment) (not necessarily the original spring)
#16
τῶν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
ὑδάτων
G5204
of waters
water (as if rainy) literally or figuratively
#18
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#19
ἐγένετο
G1096
they became
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#20
αἷμα
G129
blood
blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (the atoning blood of christ); by implication, bloodshed, also k

Analysis

Within the broader context of Revelation, this passage highlights kingdom of God through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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