Revelation 22:16

Authorized King James Version

I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἐγώ

G1473

i, me

Ἰησοῦς

G2424

Jesus

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

ἔπεμψα

G3992

have sent

to dispatch (from the subjective view or point of departure, whereas ???? (as a stronger form of ????) refers rather to the objective point or <i>term

τὸν

G3588

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

ἄγγελόν

G32

angel

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

μου

G3450

mine

of me

μαρτυρῆσαι

G3140

to testify

to be a witness, i.e., testify (literally or figuratively)

ὑμῖν

G5213

unto you

to (with or by) you

ταῦτα

G5023

these things

#10

ἐπὶ

G1909

properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re

#11

ταῖς

G3588

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

#12

ἐκκλησίαις·

G1577

the churches

a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth

#13

ἐγώ

G1473

i, me

#14

εἰμι

G1510

i exist (used only when emphatic)

#15

ἡ

G3588

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

#16

ῥίζα

G4491

the root

a "root" (literally or figuratively)

#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

γένος

G1085

the offspring

"kin" (abstract or concrete, literal or figurative, individual or collective)

#20

τοῦ

G3588

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

#21

Δαβίδ,

G1138

of David

david, the israelite king

#22

ὁ

G3588

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

#23

ἀστὴρ

G792

star

a star (as strown over the sky), literally or figuratively

#24

ὁ

G3588

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

#25

λαμπρὸς

G2986

and the bright

radiant; by analogy, limpid; figuratively, magnificent or sumptuous (in appearance)

#26

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#27

ὀρθρινός

G3720

morning

relating to the dawn, i.e., matutinal (as an epithet of venus, especially brilliant in the early day)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Revelation, this passage highlights kingdom of God through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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

How does this verse's literary context within Revelation chapter 22 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?
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?