Revelation 20:15

Authorized King James Version

And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

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
εἴ
G1487
if, whether, that, etc
#3
τις
G5100
some or any person or object
#4
οὐχ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#5
εὑρέθη
G2147
found
to find (literally or figuratively)
#6
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#7
τῇ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
βίβλῳ
G976
the book
a scroll
#9
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ζωῆς
G2222
of life
life (literally or figuratively)
#11
γεγραμμένος
G1125
written
to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe
#12
ἐβλήθη
G906
was cast
to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense)
#13
εἰς
G1519
into
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#14
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
λίμνην
G3041
the lake
a pond (large or small)
#16
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
πυρός
G4442
of fire
"fire" (literally or figuratively, specially, lightning)

Analysis

The kingdom of God theme here intersects with the progressive revelation of God's rule from creation to consummation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of development from creation mandate through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment. The phrase emphasizing life contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's reign from creation through the millennial kingdom.

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 life in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection