Revelation 16:8

Authorized King James Version

And the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the sun; and power was given unto him to scorch men with fire.

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

ὁ

G3588

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

τέταρτος

G5067

the fourth

fourth

ἄγγελος

G32

angel

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

ἐξέχεεν

G1632

poured out

to pour forth; figuratively, to bestow

τὴν

G3588

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

φιάλην

G5357

vial

a broad shallow cup ("phial")

αὐτῷ

G846

unto him

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

ἐπὶ

G1909

upon

properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re

#10

τὸν

G3588

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

#11

ἥλιον

G2246

the sun

the sun; by implication, light

#12

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#13

ἐδόθη

G1325

power was given

to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)

#14

αὐτῷ

G846

unto him

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

#15

καυματίσαι

G2739

to scorch

to burn

#16

τοὺς

G3588

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

#17

ἀνθρώπους

G444

men

man-faced, i.e., a human being

#18

ἐν

G1722

with

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

#19

πυρί

G4442

fire

"fire" (literally or figuratively, specially, lightning)

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

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 kingdom of God 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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address the apparent delay of Christ's return and God's justice, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about kingdom of God?
What practical applications emerge from understanding kingdom of God as presented in this verse, particularly in light of providing hope in times of political and social upheaval?