Revelation 21:17
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.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐμέτρησεν
he measured
G3354
ἐμέτρησεν
he measured
Strong's:
G3354
Word #:
2 of 14
to measure (i.e., ascertain in size by a fixed standard); by implication, to admeasure (i.e., allot by rule)
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτῆς
thereof
G846
αὐτῆς
thereof
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 14
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
μέτρον
according to the measure
G3358
μέτρον
according to the measure
Strong's:
G3358
Word #:
10 of 14
a measure ("metre"), literally or figuratively; by implication, a limited portion (degree)
ὅ
that
G3739
ὅ
that
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
12 of 14
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
Historical Context
Ancient city walls provided primary defense against enemies. Massive walls indicated security and strength. The relatively modest wall height (compared to the city's enormous dimensions) suggests symbolic rather than defensive purpose. The measurement's precision recalled Ezekiel's temple measurements, establishing continuity between prophetic vision and fulfillment.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the wall's measurement assure you of complete security in the new creation—no threat can penetrate God's protection?
- What does the human-accessible measurement (not divine or angelic only) teach about the new creation being comprehensible to redeemed humans?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The wall's measurement (144 cubits, about 216 feet) uses another multiple of 12 (12 × 12), symbolizing perfection and completion. The 'measure of a man, that is, of the angel' clarifies that though an angel measures, the standard is human-understandable. Reformed theology sees the wall representing security—the city needs no defensive fortification since enemies are absent, yet God's protection is complete. The specific measurement demonstrates that every detail of the new creation is ordained and perfect. Nothing is random or approximate.