Revelation 8:4

Authorized King James Version

And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel's hand.

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
ἀνέβη
G305
ascended up
to go up (literally or figuratively)
#3
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
καπνὸς
G2586
the smoke
smoke
#5
τῶν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
θυμιαμάτων
G2368
of the incense
an aroma, i.e., fragrant powder burnt in religious service; by implication, the burning itself
#7
ταῖς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
προσευχαῖς
G4335
which came with the prayers
prayer (worship); by implication, an oratory (chapel)
#9
τῶν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ἁγίων
G40
of the saints
sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)
#11
ἐκ
G1537
out of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#12
χειρὸς
G5495
hand
the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)
#13
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
ἀγγέλου
G32
the angel's
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
#15
ἐνώπιον
G1799
before
in the face of (literally or figuratively)
#16
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
θεοῦ
G2316
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to Revelation. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the ultimate establishment of divine rule over creation. The divine name or title here functions within apocalyptic literature revealing God's ultimate victory to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection