Revelation 19:8

Authorized King James Version

And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.

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
ἐδόθη
G1325
was granted
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#3
αὐτῇ
G846
to her
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
#4
ἵνα
G2443
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#5
περιβάληται
G4016
she should be arrayed
to throw all around, i.e., invest (with a palisade or with clothing)
#6
βύσσινον
G1039
in fine linen
made of linen (neuter a linen cloth)
#7
καθαρόν·
G2513
clean
clean (literally or figuratively)
#8
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#9
λαμπρὸν
G2986
white
radiant; by analogy, limpid; figuratively, magnificent or sumptuous (in appearance)
#10
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
γὰρ
G1063
for
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#12
βύσσινον
G1039
in fine linen
made of linen (neuter a linen cloth)
#13
τὰ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
δικαιώματα
G1345
the righteousness
an equitable deed; by implication, a statute or decision
#15
ἐστίν
G2076
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#16
τῶν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
ἁγίων
G40
of saints
sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)

Analysis

This verse develops the judgment and justice theme central to Revelation. The concept of righteousness reflects the development of judgment and justice within biblical theology. 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 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