Revelation 22:13

Authorized King James Version

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἐγώ

G1473

i, me

εἰμι

G1510

i exist (used only when emphatic)

τὸ

G3588

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

Alpha

the first letter of the alphabet; figuratively, only (from its use as a numeral) the first

καὶ

G2532

and

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

τὸ

G3588

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

G5598

Omega

the last letter of the greek alphabet, i.e., (figuratively) the finality

ἀρχὴ

G746

the beginning

(properly abstract) a commencement, or (concretely) chief (in various applications of order, time, place, or rank)

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#10

τέλος

G5056

the end

properly, the point aimed at as a limit, i.e., (by implication) the conclusion of an act or state (termination (literally, figuratively or indefinitel

#11

ὁ

G3588

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

#12

πρῶτος

G4413

the first

foremost (in time, place, order or importance)

#13

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#14

ὁ

G3588

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

#15

ἔσχατος

G2078

the last

farthest, final (of place or time)

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 historical context of the Domitian persecution period (c. 95 CE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address the apparent delay of Christ's return and God's justice, and how should the church respond?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of kingdom of God, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of eschatology and the doctrine of last things?