Revelation 21:22

Authorized King James Version

And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.

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

ναὸς

G3485

temple

a fane, shrine, temple

οὐκ

G3756

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

εἶδον

G1492

I saw

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

ἐν

G1722

therein

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

αὐτῆς

G846

of it

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

ὁ

G3588

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

γὰρ

G1063

for

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

κύριος

G2962

the Lord

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

#10

ὁ

G3588

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

#11

θεὸς

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

#12

ὁ

G3588

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

#13

παντοκράτωρ

G3841

Almighty

the all-ruling, i.e., god (as absolute and universal sovereign)

#14

ναὸς

G3485

temple

a fane, shrine, temple

#15

αὐτῆς

G846

of it

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

#16

ἐστιν

G2076

are

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

#17

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#18

τὸ

G3588

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

#19

ἀρνίον

G721

the Lamb

a lambkin

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to Revelation. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the ultimate establishment of divine rule over creation. The divine name or title here functions within apocalyptic literature revealing God's ultimate victory to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within imperial persecution under Domitian's demand for emperor worship. The author writes to address persecuted Christians in Asia Minor facing pressure to compromise, making the emphasis on kingdom of God particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address the apparent delay of Christ's return and God's justice, and how should the church respond?