Revelation 6:17

Authorized King James Version

For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὅτι
G3754
For
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#2
ἦλθεν
G2064
is come
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#3
ἡ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
ἡμέρα
G2250
day
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
#5
ἡ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
μεγάλη
G3173
the great
big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)
#7
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
ὀργῆς
G3709
wrath
properly, desire (as a reaching forth or excitement of the mind), i.e., (by analogy), violent passion (ire, or (justifiable) abhorrence); by implicati
#9
αὐτοῦ,
G846
of his
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
#10
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#11
τίς
G5101
who
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#12
δύναται
G1410
shall be able
to be able or possible
#13
σταθῆναι
G2476
to stand
to stand (transitively or intransitively), used in various applications (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Revelation, this passage highlights judgment and justice through universal language and absolute statements. 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

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish apocalyptic literature using symbolic imagery to convey hope shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of judgment and justice 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