Revelation 3:4

Authorized King James Version

Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἔχεις
G2192
Thou hast
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#2
ὀλίγα
G3641
a few
puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat
#3
ὀνόματα
G3686
names
a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)
#4
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#5
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#6
Σάρδεσιν
G4554
Sardis
sardis, a place in asia minor
#7
ἃ
G3739
which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#8
οὐκ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#9
ἐμόλυναν
G3435
defiled
to soil (figuratively)
#10
τὰ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
ἱμάτια
G2440
garments
a dress (inner or outer)
#12
αὐτῶν
G846
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
#13
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#14
περιπατήσουσιν
G4043
they shall walk
to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)
#15
μετ'
G3326
with
properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)
#16
ἐμοῦ
G1700
me
of me
#17
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#18
λευκοῖς
G3022
white
white
#19
ὅτι
G3754
for
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#20
ἄξιοί
G514
worthy
deserving, comparable or suitable (as if drawing praise)
#21
εἰσιν
G1526
they are
they are

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 literary and historical milieu of Jewish apocalyptic literature using symbolic imagery to convey hope shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of kingdom of God within the theological tradition of Revelation Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection