What does Revelation 1:13 mean?

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And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. Revelation 1:13

Explanation

The verse Revelation 1:13 comes from the Book of Revelation, which is rich with symbolic imagery and apocalyptic language. This verse describes a vision of the glorified Christ amid seven candlesticks. The figure is “like unto the Son of man,” an epithet that often refers to Jesus Christ, and is especially reminiscent of the description of the Messiah in the book of Daniel. The clothing described, a garment down to the foot and a golden girdle (or sash) around the chest, is indicative of high priestly or royal attire. The image is one of authority and dignity, suggesting Jesus’ divine nature and His role as the high priest and king.

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Historical Context

Revelation was written during a time of persecution for early Christians, traditionally attributed to the reign of the Roman Emperor Domitian (AD 81-96). The imagery of Christ among the candlesticks, which represents the seven churches to whom the book is addressed, serves as an assurance of His presence and concern for these communities. This vision also offered hope and endurance, reminding believers that Christ is sovereign over history and the church.

Theological Insights

The vision of Christ in Revelation 1:13 has been interpreted from various theological perspectives. For Preterists, this vision affirms that Christ was with the early church during trials. Historically, Protestant theologians often view this vision as symbolic of Christ’s ongoing presence and guardianship of the church throughout all ages. For some Catholic and Orthodox theologians, the priestly imagery further points to Christ’s eternal role as a mediator between God and humanity.

Practical Applications

This verse can offer personal encouragement and comfort to believers, reminding them of Christ’s continual presence and His sovereign power over all circumstances. It also has implications for church communities, emphasizing the importance of remaining connected to Christ, the head of the church. The image of Christ among the candlesticks could remind believers of their visibility and role in the world as sources of light and truth.

Cross-References

Daniel 7:13: “I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven…”
Revelation 1:20: “The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks…”
Revelation 2:1: “Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;”

Language Study

Key words in this verse include:

“Son of man”: Translated from the Greek “υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου” (huios tou anthropou), it is a messianic title from Daniel 7:13 and often used by Jesus in the Gospels.
“Clothed”: Greek “περιβεβλημένον” (peribeblēmenon), implying being covered or wrapped, indicating dignity.
“Garment down to the foot”: Often symbolizes a garment of dignity and could imply priestly or royal status.
“Girt about the paps with a golden girdle”: The Greek term for “girdle” is “ζώνην χρυσᾶν” (zōnēn chrusan), indicating a belt or band made of gold which exemplifies royalty or high priesthood.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Similar to other ancient Near Eastern traditions, the attire described in this verse can be compared to the royal and priestly garments of high-ranking officials in cultures surrounding the early Christian community. The use of gold and elaborate clothing was common in descriptions of divine or semi-divine figures in ancient myths and religious art.

Scientific Perspectives

While Revelation is a book steeped in symbolic language and not concerned with scientific descriptions, modern readers often examine the psychology behind apocalyptic literature. The use of vivid imagery and symbolism can have a powerful effect on readers and may be intended to evoke emotional responses such as comfort, urgency, or conviction.

Commentaries

Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes Christ’s omniscience and the comprehensive care He has for the churches.
The Pulpit Commentary notes the majesty and authority of Christ as suggested by His attire and His centrality among the churches.
William Barclay remarks on the richness of symbolism in Revelation and how it would have spoken to the church in terms that were both comforting and challenging in a time of persecution.
The ESV Study Bible provides exegetical insight into the Old Testament echoes found in the description of Christ’s appearance and His significance for the seven churches.