Revelation 4:5

Authorized King James Version

And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
ἐκ
G1537
out of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#3
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
θρόνου
G2362
the throne
a stately seat ("throne"); by implication, power or (concretely) a potentate
#5
ἐκπορεύονται
G1607
proceeded
to depart, be discharged, proceed, project
#6
ἀστραπαὶ
G796
lightnings
lightning; by analogy, glare
#7
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#8
βρονταί
G1027
thunderings
thunder
#9
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
φωναὶ
G5456
voices
a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language
#11
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
ἑπτὰ
G2033
the seven
seven
#13
λαμπάδες
G2985
lamps
a "lamp" or flambeau
#14
πυρὸς
G4442
of fire
"fire" (literally or figuratively, specially, lightning)
#15
καιόμεναι
G2545
burning
to set on fire, i.e., kindle or (by implication) consume
#16
ἐνώπιον
G1799
before
in the face of (literally or figuratively)
#17
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
θρόνου
G2362
the throne
a stately seat ("throne"); by implication, power or (concretely) a potentate
#19
αἵ
G3739
which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#20
εἰσιν
G1526
are
they are
#21
τὰ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#22
ἑπτὰ
G2033
the seven
seven
#23
πνεύματα
G4151
Spirits
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#24
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#25
θεοῦ
G2316
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

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 sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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