Revelation 22:8

Authorized King James Version

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.

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

ἐγὼ

G1473

i, me

Ἰωάννης

G2491

John

joannes (i.e., jochanan), the name of four israelites

τοῦ

G3588

which

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

ἔβλεψα

G991

saw

to look at (literally or figuratively)

ταῦτα

G5023

these things

καὶ

G2532

And

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

ἤκουσα

G191

I had heard

to hear (in various senses)

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#10

ὅτε

G3753

when

at which (thing) too, i.e., when

#11

ἤκουσα

G191

I had heard

to hear (in various senses)

#12

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#13

ἔβλεψα

G991

saw

to look at (literally or figuratively)

#14

ἔπεσα

G4098

I fell down

to fall (literally or figuratively)

#15

προσκυνῆσαι

G4352

to worship

to fawn or crouch to, i.e., (literally or figuratively) prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore)

#16

ἔμπροσθεν

G1715

before

in front of (in place (literally or figuratively) or time)

#17

τοῦ

G3588

which

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

#18

ποδῶν

G4228

the feet

a "foot" (figuratively or literally)

#19

τοῦ

G3588

which

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

#20

ἀγγέλου

G32

of the angel

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

#21

τοῦ

G3588

which

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

#22

δεικνύοντός

G1166

shewed

to show (literally or figuratively)

#23

μοι

G3427

to me

#24

ταῦτα

G5023

these things

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

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?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?