Revelation 21:14

Authorized King James Version

And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

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
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
τεῖχος
G5038
the wall
a wall (as formative of a house)
#4
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
πόλεως
G4172
of the city
a town (properly, with walls, of greater or less size)
#6
ἔχον
G2192
had
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#7
θεμελίους
G2310
foundations
something put down, i.e., a substruction (of a building, etc.), (literally or figuratively)
#8
δώδεκα
G1427
of the twelve
two and ten, i.e., a dozen
#9
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#11
αὐτοῖς
G846
them
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#12
ὀνόματα
G3686
the names
a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)
#13
τῶν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
δώδεκα
G1427
of the twelve
two and ten, i.e., a dozen
#15
ἀποστόλων
G652
apostles
a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the gospel; officially a commissioner of christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers)
#16
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
ἀρνίου
G721
of the Lamb
a lambkin

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