Revelation 2:11

Authorized King James Version

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
ἔχων
He that hath
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#3
οὖς
an ear
the ear (physically or mentally)
#4
ἀκουσάτω
let him hear
to hear (in various senses)
#5
τί
what
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#6
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
πνεῦμα
the Spirit
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#8
λέγει
saith
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#9
ταῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ἐκκλησίαις
unto the churches
a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth
#11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
νικῶν
He that overcometh
to subdue (literally or figuratively)
#13
οὐ
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#14
μὴ
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#15
ἀδικηθῇ
G91
be hurt
to be unjust, i.e., (actively) do wrong (morally, socially or physically)
#16
ἐκ
of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#17
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
θανάτου
death
(properly, an adjective used as a noun) death (literally or figuratively)
#19
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#20
δευτέρου
the second
(ordinal) second (in time, place, or rank; also adverb)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Revelation, this passage highlights kingdom of God through universal language and absolute statements. 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