What does Revelation 11:4 mean?

These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth. Revelation 11:4

Explanation

Revelation 11:4 states, “These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.” This verse occurs in the context of the description of two witnesses who prophesy during the end times. The imagery of olive trees and candlesticks (or lampstands) has deep symbolic meaning. Olive trees are often symbols of peace, prosperity, and divine blessing in the Bible, while lampstands symbolize light and testimony.

In a literal sense, the verse is saying that the two witnesses are like olive trees and lampstands in front of God, which implies they have a role in providing spiritual sustenance (like olive oil) and illumination (like the light from lamps). Deeper interpretations might suggest that these witnesses are channels of God’s light and His Spirit, tasked with sharing God’s truth in a time of darkness.

Historical Context

Revelation, the last book of the New Testament, is traditionally attributed to John the Apostle and is believed to have been written during a time of intense persecution of Christians in the late 1st century A.D. The book is apocalyptic literature, full of prophetic visions and symbolic language. It often used imagery familiar to its first-century readers, drawing from the Old Testament, especially the prophetic books like Zechariah and Daniel.

Theological Insights

Theologically, opinions vary on who or what the two olive trees and candlesticks represent. Some interpret them as symbols of the Old and New Testaments, while others see them as historical figures or institutions that bear witness to God’s truth. Preterist, Futurist, Historicist, and Idealist views of Revelation offer different interpretations of the symbols based on their overarching understanding of Revelation’s prophecies.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse may inspire believers to stand firm in their faith and to be sources of light to the world, maintaining their testimony even in the face of opposition. It encourages the faithful to be nurturers of peace (like olive trees) and to shine with truth and righteousness (like lampstands).

Cross-References

• Zechariah 4:3, 11-14: Zechariah also speaks of two olive trees by a lampstand, which are interpreted as two anointed ones.
• Matthew 5:14-16: Jesus calls his followers the light of the world, a city set on a hill that cannot be hidden.
• Psalm 52:8: The psalmist speaks of being like a green olive tree in the house of God.

Language Study

The Greek words used in Revelation 11:4, such as “elaia” (olive), “luchnia” (lampstand/candlestick), and “histemi” (stand), bring out the significance of the symbols. “Elaia” (olive) is suggestive of anointing and healing, while “luchnia” (lampstand) is a source of light, guidance, and possibly, the presence of the Holy Spirit. “Histemi” (stand) indicates a position of readiness and authority.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient Greek and Roman culture, olive branches were symbols of peace and victory. In the Jewish faith, the menorah (lampstand) was a central feature in the Temple and symbolized the eternal light of God. This intertwining of symbols from different backgrounds enriches the interpretive possibilities.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives may be less directly related to this verse, except insofar as they might illuminate how actual olive trees and lampstands function. For example, the biology of olive trees can be studied to understand the essence of what makes them enduring symbols of peace and nourishment.

Commentaries

Various experts and biblical scholars offer different interpretations of Revelation 11:4. Some see the two witnesses as literal historical figures—possibly Enoch and Elijah—who will return, while others view them as symbolic. Matthew Henry’s commentary sees them as representative of the church’s faithful testimony. The Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary suggests that the two witnesses symbolize “the twofold aspect of the Church’s witness, legal and prophetic,” possibly linked to Moses and Elijah. Many scholars cross-reference Zechariah 4 to draw parallels between the symbols in both the Old and New Testaments.