Revelation 5:7
And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἦλθεν
he came
G2064
ἦλθεν
he came
Strong's:
G2064
Word #:
2 of 14
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐκ
out of
G1537
ἐκ
out of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
7 of 14
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
δεξιᾶς
the right hand
G1188
δεξιᾶς
the right hand
Strong's:
G1188
Word #:
9 of 14
the right side or (feminine) hand (as that which usually takes)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καθημένου
of him that sat
G2521
καθημένου
of him that sat
Strong's:
G2521
Word #:
11 of 14
and ???? (to sit; akin to the base of g1476); to sit down; figuratively, to remain, reside
ἐπὶ
upon
G1909
ἐπὶ
upon
Strong's:
G1909
Word #:
12 of 14
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
Historical Context
Ancient sealed scrolls represented official decrees, wills, or contracts. Seven seals indicated complete security; only the authorized party could open them. In Roman law, wills were sealed by seven witnesses. This imagery would communicate Christ's legal authority to execute God's eternal decree of redemption and judgment.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's position—worthy to take the scroll—assure you that history unfolds according to divine purpose, not chaos?
- What does the Lamb's movement from throne to taking the scroll reveal about His active role in governing redemption's outworking?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The Lamb taking the scroll demonstrates Christ's unique qualification as Mediator to execute God's redemptive plan. His position—from the throne yet moving to take the scroll—pictures His dual nature as God and man. The act of taking ('elaben') signifies authorization to open history's seals, revealing His sovereignty over all events. Reformed theology emphasizes Christ's mediatorial kingship; having accomplished redemption, He now governs all things toward consummation. Only the slain-yet-living Lamb bridges heaven and earth, God and humanity.