Revelation 8:1

Authorized King James Version

And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour.

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
ὅτε
G3753
when
at which (thing) too, i.e., when
#3
ἤνοιξεν
G455
he had opened
to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications)
#4
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
σφραγῖδα
G4973
seal
a signet (as fencing in or protecting from misappropriation); by implication, the stamp impressed (as a mark of privacy, or genuineness), literally or
#6
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
ἑβδόμην
G1442
the seventh
seventh
#8
ἐγένετο
G1096
there was
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#9
σιγὴ
G4602
silence
silence
#10
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#11
τῷ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
οὐρανῷ
G3772
heaven
the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)
#13
ὡς
G5613
about the space of
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#14
ἡμιώριον
G2256
half an hour
a half-hour

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to Revelation. The concept of divine revelation reflects the ultimate establishment of divine rule over creation. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to apocalyptic literature revealing God's ultimate victory, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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