Revelation 18:16

Authorized King James Version

And saying, Alas, alas, that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls!

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

λέγοντες,

G3004

saying

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

οὐαί,

G3759

Alas

woe

οὐαί,

G3759

Alas

woe

ἡ

G3588

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

πόλις

G4172

city

a town (properly, with walls, of greater or less size)

ἡ

G3588

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

μεγάλη,

G3173

that great

big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)

ἡ

G3588

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

#10

περιβεβλημένη

G4016

that was clothed in

to throw all around, i.e., invest (with a palisade or with clothing)

#11

βύσσινον

G1039

fine linen

made of linen (neuter a linen cloth)

#12

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#13

πορφυροῦν

G4210

purple

purpureal, i.e., bluish red

#14

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#15

κόκκινον,

G2847

scarlet

crimson-colored

#16

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#17

κεχρυσωμένη

G5558

decked

to gild, i.e., bespangle with golden ornaments

#18

ἐν

G1722

with

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

#19

χρυσῷ

G5557

gold

gold; by extension, a golden article, as an ornament or coin

#20

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#21

λίθῳ

G3037

stones

a stone (literally or figuratively)

#22

τιμίῳ

G5093

precious

valuable, i.e., (objectively) costly, or (subjectively) honored, esteemed, or (figuratively) beloved

#23

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#24

μαργαρίταις·

G3135

pearls

a pearl

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

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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from earthly theocracy through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about kingdom of God?
How does this verse's literary context within Revelation chapter 18 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?