Revelation 2:9

Authorized King James Version

I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Οἶδά

G1492

I know

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

σου

G4675

thy

of thee, thy

τοῦ

G3588

of them which

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

ἔργα

G2041

works

toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

καὶ

G2532

and

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

τοῦ

G3588

of them which

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

θλῖψιν

G2347

tribulation

pressure (literally or figuratively)

καὶ

G2532

and

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

τοῦ

G3588

of them which

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

#10

πτωχείαν

G4432

poverty

beggary, i.e., indigence (literally or figuratively)

#11

πλούσιος

G4145

rich

wealthy; figuratively, abounding with

#12

δὲ

G1161

(but

but, and, etc

#13

εἶ

G1488

thou art

#14

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#15

τοῦ

G3588

of them which

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

#16

βλασφημίαν

G988

I know the blasphemy

vilification (especially against god)

#17

τοῦ

G3588

of them which

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

#18

λεγόντων

G3004

say

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

#19

Ἰουδαίους

G2453

Jews

judaean, i.e., belonging to jehudah

#20

εἶναι

G1511

are

to exist

#21

ἑαυτούς

G1438

they

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

#22

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#23

οὐκ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#24

εἰσὶν

G1526

are

they are

#25

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#26

συναγωγὴ

G4864

are the synagogue

an assemblage of persons; specially, a jewish "synagogue" (the meeting or the place); by analogy, a christian church

#27

τοῦ

G3588

of them which

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

#28

Σατανᾶ

G4567

of Satan

the accuser, i.e., the devil

Analysis

Within the broader context of Revelation, this passage highlights kingdom of God through simile or metaphorical language. 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 historical context of the Domitian persecution period (c. 95 CE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding kingdom of God as presented in this verse, particularly in light of providing hope in times of political and social upheaval?