Revelation 7:8
Of the tribe of Zabulon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Joseph were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Benjamin were sealed twelve thousand.
Original Language Analysis
ἐκ
Of
G1537
ἐκ
Of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
1 of 18
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
ἐσφραγισμένοι·
were sealed
G4972
ἐσφραγισμένοι·
were sealed
Strong's:
G4972
Word #:
6 of 18
to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest
ἐκ
Of
G1537
ἐκ
Of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
7 of 18
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
ἐσφραγισμένοι·
were sealed
G4972
ἐσφραγισμένοι·
were sealed
Strong's:
G4972
Word #:
12 of 18
to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest
ἐκ
Of
G1537
ἐκ
Of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
13 of 18
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
Historical Context
The sealing imagery would resonate with first-century believers familiar with official seals denoting authority and ownership. Roman legal documents, property deeds, and imperial decrees all bore seals. Christians facing persecution needed assurance that their true identity and destiny were secured by divine seal, not threatened by earthly powers.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your sealing by the Holy Spirit as God's possession provide confidence when your faith is tested?
- What does the completeness of the sealed tribes teach about God's plan of redemption—is it comprehensive or partial?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The final tribes sealed complete the picture of God's comprehensive redemption. The 144,000 symbolizes the church militant—still on earth, protected during tribulation. The seal (Greek 'sphragis') marks ownership and destination, like ancient shipping marks indicating cargo's owner and port. This sealing is the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14), guaranteeing believers' preservation until final redemption. Reformed theology emphasizes that God's decree and the Spirit's sealing work together—those predestined are called, justified, and preserved to glorification (Romans 8:29-30). None sealed are lost.