Revelation 7:6

Authorized King James Version

Of the tribe of Aser were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Nepthalim were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Manasses were sealed twelve thousand.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
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
#2
φυλῆς
G5443
the tribe
an offshoot, i.e., race or clan
#3
Ἀσὴρ
G768
of Aser
aser (i.e., asher), an israelite tribe
#4
ιβ'
G1427
twelve
two and ten, i.e., a dozen
#5
χιλιάδες
G5505
thousand
one thousand ("chiliad")
#6
ἐσφραγισμένοι·
G4972
were sealed
to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest
#7
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
#8
φυλῆς
G5443
the tribe
an offshoot, i.e., race or clan
#9
Νεφθαλείμ
G3508
of Nepthalim
nephthaleim (i.e., naphthali), a tribe in palestine
#10
ιβ'
G1427
twelve
two and ten, i.e., a dozen
#11
χιλιάδες
G5505
thousand
one thousand ("chiliad")
#12
ἐσφραγισμένοι·
G4972
were sealed
to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest
#13
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
#14
φυλῆς
G5443
the tribe
an offshoot, i.e., race or clan
#15
Μανασσῆ
G3128
of Manasses
mannasses (i.e., menashsheh), an israelite
#16
ιβ'
G1427
twelve
two and ten, i.e., a dozen
#17
χιλιάδες
G5505
thousand
one thousand ("chiliad")
#18
ἐσφραγισμένοι·
G4972
were sealed
to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest

Analysis

Within the broader context of Revelation, this passage highlights kingdom of God through simile or metaphorical language. 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 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