Revelation 22:8
And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 24
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τοῦ
which
G3588
τοῦ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 24
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 24
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 24
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
12 of 24
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
προσκυνῆσαι
to worship
G4352
προσκυνῆσαι
to worship
Strong's:
G4352
Word #:
15 of 24
to fawn or crouch to, i.e., (literally or figuratively) prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore)
ἔμπροσθεν
before
G1715
ἔμπροσθεν
before
Strong's:
G1715
Word #:
16 of 24
in front of (in place (literally or figuratively) or time)
τοῦ
which
G3588
τοῦ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
17 of 24
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοῦ
which
G3588
τοῦ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
19 of 24
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀγγέλου
of the angel
G32
ἀγγέλου
of the angel
Strong's:
G32
Word #:
20 of 24
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
τοῦ
which
G3588
τοῦ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
21 of 24
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Revelation 19:10And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.Revelation 1:1The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:
Historical Context
First-century syncretism blurred lines between honoring and worshiping angels, saints, or other spiritual beings. Early Christian theology had to clearly distinguish veneration from worship. John's corrected mistake provided authoritative precedent that no created being, regardless of glory or role in revelation, should receive worship. This countered developing angel cults in Asia Minor.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you guard against subtle forms of idolatry—directing worship toward created things or people rather than God alone?
- What does John's repeated mistake teach about the persistence of idolatrous temptations even for mature believers?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
John's repeated attempt to worship the revealing angel (also in 19:10) demonstrates how easily even spiritually mature believers can misdirect worship. The angel's correction emphasizes that only God deserves worship—created beings, however glorious, must not be worshiped. Reformed theology affirms the second commandment's prohibition of idolatry. John's mistake warns that impressive displays of divine glory through created mediators can tempt worship of the mediator rather than God. The repetition emphasizes this temptation's persistence and the need for constant vigilance.