Revelation 2:20

Authorized King James Version

Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἀλλ'
G235
Notwithstanding
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#2
ἔχω
G2192
I have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#3
κατὰ
G2596
against
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#4
σοῦ
G4675
thee
of thee, thy
#5
ὀλίγα
G3641
a few things
puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat
#6
ὅτι
G3754
because
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#7
ἐᾷς
G1439
thou sufferest
to let be, i.e., permit or leave alone
#8
τὴν
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
γυναῖκα
G1135
that woman
a woman; specially, a wife
#10
Ἰεζάβηλ,
G2403
Jezebel
jezabel (i.e., jezebel), a tyrian woman (used as a synonym of a termagant or false teacher)
#11
τὴν
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
λέγουσαν
G3004
calleth
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#13
ἑαυτὴν
G1438
herself
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#14
προφῆτιν
G4398
a prophetess
a female foreteller or an inspired woman
#15
διδάσκειν
G1321
to teach
to teach (in the same broad application)
#16
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#17
πλανᾶσθαι
G4105
to seduce
to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue)
#18
ἐμοὺς
G1699
my
my
#19
δούλους
G1401
servants
a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)
#20
πορνεῦσαι
G4203
to commit fornication
to act the harlot, i.e., (literally) indulge unlawful lust (of either sex), or (figuratively) practise idolatry
#21
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#22
εἰδωλόθυτα
G1494
things sacrificed unto idols
an image-sacrifice, i.e., part of an idolatrous offering
#23
φαγεῖν
G5315
to eat
to eat (literally or figuratively)

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