Revelation 2:12

Authorized King James Version

And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges;

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
τῷ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
ἀγγέλῳ
G32
to the angel
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
#4
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#6
Περγάμῳ
G4010
Pergamos
fortified; pergamus, a place in asia minor
#7
ἐκκλησίας
G1577
of the church
a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth
#8
γράψον·
G1125
write
to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe
#9
Τάδε
G3592
These things
the same, i.e., this or that one (plural these or those); often used as a personal pronoun
#10
λέγει
G3004
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
#11
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ἔχων
G2192
he which hath
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#13
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
ῥομφαίαν
G4501
sword
a sabre, i.e., a long and broad cutlass (any weapon of the kind, literally or figuratively)
#15
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#16
δίστομον
G1366
with two edges
double-edged
#17
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
ὀξεῖαν·
G3691
the sharp
keen; by analogy, rapid

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