What does Revelation 11:9 mean?

And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves. Revelation 11:9

Explanation

Revelation 11:9 describes an event where two witnesses of God have been killed and their bodies lie exposed in a public space. According to the text, people from various nations, tribes, languages, and social ranks are said to gaze upon the corpses without allowing them to be interred. The time span given is “three days and a half,” suggesting a limited and symbolic duration in which the bodies remain unburied. This scene is likely metaphorical and symbolic, with the “three days and a half” period potentially referring to a short time of apparent defeat before a reversal of fortune or resurrection, echoing the resurrection of Jesus Christ after three days.

Historical Context

Revelation, the last book of the New Testament, is traditionally attributed to John of Patmos and is understood to be an apocalyptic text that was written during a time of persecution, possibly during the late 1st century AD. During this era, Christians faced hostility from Roman authorities and society. The vivid imagery and symbolic language were typical of apocalyptic literature and were meant to convey hope to the faithful by assuring them that, despite their current suffering, God would ultimately triumph.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse can signify the temporary triumph of evil over good, and the eventual divine vindication of the righteous. The length of time the bodies are displayed without burial reflects disgrace, as burial was a significant concern in the ancient culture for honoring the deceased. Different theological interpretations could see these two witnesses as literal individuals, symbolic of the Old and New Testaments, or representative of the prophetic and priestly roles within the church.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of Revelation 11:9 might revolve around themes of perseverance, faith during times of persecution, and the ultimate justice of God. Believers might draw strength from the verse in times of personal trials, finding solace in the idea that even when righteousness seems to be defeated, a resurrection or vindication is forthcoming.

Cross-References

• Revelation 11:7-11 – “And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.”
• Revelation 11:11 – “And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.”
• Daniel 12:7 – “And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth forever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished.”

Language Study

Key terms in the original Greek text include:

• “kindreds” (φυλῶν, phylon): Refers to tribes or large family groups with common ancestry.
• “tongues” (γλωσσῶν, glosson): Languages or dialects spoken by different groups.
• “nations” (ἐθνῶν, ethnon): Commonly translated as “Gentiles,” referring to non-Jewish nations or people groups.
• “dead bodies” (πτώματα, ptomata): Corpses or fallen bodies. The use of these terms emphasizes the universal scope of the viewers, suggesting that the event has worldwide significance.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons might be drawn to ancient myths where heroes or gods die but are subsequently restored to life, signifying cycles of nature or hope for renewal. In the Egyptian mythology, the death and resurrection of Osiris is a prominent example. Similarly, within Greek mythology, the story of Phoenix rising from its ashes portrays resurrection. This establishes a cultural understanding of death and resurrection themes which resonate beyond Christianity.

Scientific Perspectives

The detail of people from all over the world being able to see these events could be seen to anticipate the modern era of global communication and media, where images and news travel instantaneously across the globe. Such a phenomenon was not possible in ancient times, but today, this type of universal observation is commonplace.

Commentaries

Scholars and theologians offer a range of interpretations of Revelation 11:9. Some view the two witnesses as historical figures who will appear in the end times, while others interpret them symbolically. Commentaries often stress the importance of the text’s apocalyptic genre, emphasizing its focus on cosmic struggle and ultimate redemption rather than providing a literal roadmap to the future. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary suggests that the refusal to bury these witnesses represents the ultimate insult and degradation by their enemies, which is meant to contrast sharply with their subsequent vindication by God.