Revelation 9:15

Authorized King James Version

And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men.

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
ἐλύθησαν
G3089
were loosed
to "loosen" (literally or figuratively)
#3
τῶν
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
τέσσαρες
G5064
the four
four
#5
ἄγγελοι
G32
angels
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
#6
τῶν
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
ἡτοιμασμένοι
G2090
were prepared
to prepare
#8
εἰς
G1519
for
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#9
τῶν
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ὥραν
G5610
an hour
an "hour" (literally or figuratively)
#11
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
ἡμέραν
G2250
a day
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
#13
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#14
μῆνα
G3376
a month
a month
#15
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#16
ἐνιαυτόν
G1763
a year
a year
#17
ἵνα
G2443
for to
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#18
ἀποκτείνωσιν
G615
slay
to kill outright; figuratively, to destroy
#19
τῶν
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#20
τρίτον
G5154
the third part
third; neuter (as noun) a third part, or (as adverb) a (or the) third time, thirdly
#21
τῶν
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#22
ἀνθρώπων
G444
of men
man-faced, i.e., a human being

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