Revelation 21:17

Authorized King James Version

And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

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

ἐμέτρησεν

G3354

he measured

to measure (i.e., ascertain in size by a fixed standard); by implication, to admeasure (i.e., allot by rule)

τὸ

G3588

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

τεῖχος

G5038

the wall

a wall (as formative of a house)

αὐτῆς

G846

thereof

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

ἑκατὸν

G1540

an hundred

a hundred

τεσσαράκοντα

G5062

and forty

forty

τεσσάρων

G5064

and four

four

πηχῶν

G4083

cubits

the fore-arm, i.e., (as a measure) a cubit

#10

μέτρον

G3358

according to the measure

a measure ("metre"), literally or figuratively; by implication, a limited portion (degree)

#11

ἀνθρώπου

G444

of a man

man-faced, i.e., a human being

#12

ὅ

G3739

that

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

#13

ἐστιν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

#14

ἀγγέλου

G32

of the angel

compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor

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

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

How does the kingdom of God theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this verse's literary context within Revelation chapter 21 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?