Revelation 16:5

Authorized King James Version

And I heard the angel of the waters say, Thou art righteous, O Lord, which art, and wast, and shalt be, because thou hast judged thus.

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

ἤκουσα

G191

I heard

to hear (in various senses)

ὁ

G3588

which

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

ἀγγέλου

G32

the angel

compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor

ὁ

G3588

which

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

ὑδάτων

G5204

of the waters

water (as if rainy) literally or figuratively

λέγοντος

G3004

say

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

Δίκαιος

G1342

righteous

equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)

Κύριε,

G2962

O Lord

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

#10

εἶ

G1488

Thou art

thou art

#11

ὁ

G3588

which

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

#12

ὢν

G5607

being

#13

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#14

ὁ

G3588

which

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

#15

ἦν

G2258

wast

i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

#16

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#17

ὁ

G3588

which

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

#18

ὅσιος

G3741

shalt be

properly, right (by intrinsic or divine character; thus distinguished from 1342, which refers rather to human statutes and relations; from g2413, whic

#19

ὅτι

G3754

because

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

#20

ταῦτα

G5023

thus

these things

#21

ἔκρινας

G2919

thou hast judged

by implication, to try, condemn, punish

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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Revelation.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within imperial persecution under Domitian's demand for emperor worship. The author writes to address persecuted Christians in Asia Minor facing pressure to compromise, making the emphasis on judgment and justice particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of judgment and justice, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
What practical applications emerge from understanding judgment and justice as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
How does this verse's literary context within Revelation chapter 16 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?