Revelation 9:13

Authorized King James Version

And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God,

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
τοῦ
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
ἕκτος
G1623
the sixth
sixth
#4
ἄγγελος
G32
angel
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
#5
ἐσάλπισεν·
G4537
sounded
to trumpet, i.e., sound a blast (literally or figuratively)
#6
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#7
ἤκουσα
G191
I heard
to hear (in various senses)
#8
φωνὴν
G5456
voice
a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language
#9
μίαν
G1520
one
#10
ἐκ
G1537
from
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#11
τοῦ
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
τεσσάρων
G5064
the four
four
#13
κεράτων
G2768
horns
a horn (literally or figuratively)
#14
τοῦ
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
θυσιαστηρίου
G2379
altar
a place of sacrifice, i.e., an altar (special or genitive case, literal or figurative)
#16
τοῦ
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
χρυσοῦ
G5552
of the golden
made of gold
#18
τοῦ
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#19
ἐνώπιον
G1799
is before
in the face of (literally or figuratively)
#20
τοῦ
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#21
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