Revelation 4:6

Authorized King James Version

And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.

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

ἐνώπιον

G1799

before

in the face of (literally or figuratively)

τοῦ

G3588

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

θρόνου

G2362

of the throne

a stately seat ("throne"); by implication, power or (concretely) a potentate

θάλασσα

G2281

there was a sea

the sea (genitive case or specially)

ὑαλίνη

G5193

of glass

glassy, i.e., transparent

ὁμοία

G3664

similar (in appearance or character)

κρυστάλλῳ

G2930

unto crystal

ice, i.e., (by analogy) rock "crystal"

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#10

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#11

μέσῳ

G3319

the midst

middle (as an adjective or (neuter) noun)

#12

τοῦ

G3588

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

#13

θρόνου

G2362

of the throne

a stately seat ("throne"); by implication, power or (concretely) a potentate

#14

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#15

κύκλῳ

G2945

round about

i.e., in a circle (by implication, of g1722), i.e., (adverbially) all around

#16

τοῦ

G3588

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

#17

θρόνου

G2362

of the throne

a stately seat ("throne"); by implication, power or (concretely) a potentate

#18

τέσσαρα

G5064

were four

four

#19

ζῷα

G2226

beasts

a live thing, i.e., an animal

#20

γέμοντα

G1073

full

to swell out, i.e., be full

#21

ὀφθαλμῶν

G3788

of eyes

the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)

#22

ἔμπροσθεν

G1715

before

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

#23

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#24

ὄπισθεν

G3693

behind

from g3700) with enclitic of source; from the rear (as a secure aspect), i.e., at the back (adverb and preposition of place or time)

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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about kingdom of God?
How does this verse's literary context within Revelation chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?