Revelation 19:14

Authorized King James Version

And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.

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

τῷ

G3588

which were

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

στρατεύματα

G4753

the armies

an armament, i.e., (by implication) a body of troops (more or less extensive or systematic)

ἐν

G1722

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

τῷ

G3588

which were

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

οὐρανῷ

G3772

heaven

the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)

ἠκολούθει

G190

followed

properly, to be in the same way with, i.e., to accompany (specially, as a disciple)

αὐτῷ

G846

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

ἐφ'

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

ἵπποις

G2462

horses

a horse

#11

λευκὸν

G3022

white

#12

ἐνδεδυμένοι

G1746

clothed

to invest with clothing (literally or figuratively)

#13

βύσσινον

G1039

in fine linen

made of linen (neuter a linen cloth)

#14

λευκὸν

G3022

white

#15

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#16

καθαρόν

G2513

clean

clean (literally or figuratively)

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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?
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?