Revelation 7:13

Authorized King James Version

And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?

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
ἀπεκρίθη
G611
answered
to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)
#3
εἷς
G1520
one
one
#4
ἐκ
G1537
of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#5
τὰς
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
πρεσβυτέρων
G4245
the elders
older; as noun, a senior; specially, an israelite sanhedrist (also figuratively, member of the celestial council) or christian "presbyter"
#7
λέγων
G3004
saying
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#8
μοι,
G3427
unto me
to me
#9
Οὗτοι
G3778
these
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#10
τὰς
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
περιβεβλημένοι
G4016
are arrayed in
to throw all around, i.e., invest (with a palisade or with clothing)
#12
τὰς
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
στολὰς
G4749
robes
equipment, i.e., (specially), a "stole" or long-fitting gown (as a mark of dignity)
#14
τὰς
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
λευκὰς
G3022
white
white
#16
τίνες
G5101
What
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#17
εἰσὶν
G1526
are
they are
#18
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#19
πόθεν
G4159
whence
from which (as interrogative) or what (as relative) place, state, source or cause
#20
ἦλθον
G2064
came they
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Revelation, this passage highlights kingdom of God through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. 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 historical context of the Domitian persecution period (c. 95 CE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection