What does Revelation 16:5 mean?

And I heard the angel of the waters say, Thou art righteous, O Lord, which art, and wast, and shalt be, because thou hast judged thus. Revelation 16:5

Explanation

The verse from the Book of Revelation, “And I heard the angel of the waters say, Thou art righteous, O Lord, which art, and wast, and shalt be, because thou hast judged thus,” is a proclamation of praise to God for His righteous judgment. In this particular passage, one of the angels acknowledges God’s fairness and eternal nature in the context of the judgments being poured out on the earth. The phrase “angel of the waters” suggests that this is the angel with authority over the waters, speaking in light of the plagues that have affected the waters, as described in the previous verses of Revelation 16. The declaration “which art, and wast, and shalt be” emphasizes God’s timeless existence and sovereignty.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written by the Apostle John, who is said to have received visions while exiled on the island of Patmos. The historical setting is circa AD 95, during Roman Emperor Domitian’s reign, a time when Christians faced severe persecution. Revelation is apocalyptic literature, filled with prophetic symbolism about the end times and God’s final judgment. This verse is part of a series describing the seven bowls of God’s wrath, which are judgments upon an unrepentant world.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints offer varied insights on this verse. Preterists interpret the judgments as events that occurred in the first century, while Futurists see them as future global events. Some interpret “angel of the waters” as a literal angelic being; others see it as symbolic of divine authority over the natural world. Scholars debate whether the judgments are God’s direct actions or a withdrawal of His protection. The timeless nature of God, acknowledged in this verse, is widely recognized in Christian theology as His eternal sovereignty.

Practical Applications

This verse can teach individuals about the importance of recognizing the righteousness and sovereignty of God in all circumstances, including suffering and judgment. It can inspire believers to trust in God’s eternal nature and His plan for justice, and it encourages the acknowledgment of His authority over all creation, thus leading to worship and reverence.

Cross-References

• Revelation 4:8 – “And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.”
• Revelation 11:17 – “Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.”
• Psalm 145:17 – “The LORD is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.”

Language Study

The phrase “which art, and wast, and shalt be” reflects the Greek words ὢν (ōn – being), ἦν (ēn – was), and ὁ ἐρχόμενος (ho erchomenos – the one coming). These terms encapsulate the concept of God’s existence in the present, past, and future, suggesting His immutability and eternal nature. Additionally, “Thou art righteous,” translates from the Greek “δίκαιος εἶ” (dikaios ei), which ascribes the quality of righteousness or justice to God.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Ancient cultures often attributed control over natural elements to various gods. In this biblical context, the angel of the waters can be compared to figures in other religions who oversaw certain aspects of the natural world. The verse’s acknowledgment of God’s eternal nature also mirrors the concepts of eternal deities found in various ancient mythologies.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse does not directly intersect with modern scientific understandings, as it speaks to matters of faith and divine attributes rather than empirical observations. However, its mention of the “angel of the waters” touches upon themes of environmental authority that can be conceptually likened to modern discussions on environmental stewardship.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators note that Revelation 16:5 is part of the broader narrative on God’s justice. Matthew Henry’s Commentary reflects on God’s infinite wisdom and justice in executing judgment. The Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary emphasizes the importance of God’s character as holy and true in the context of His judgments. Many commentaries agree that this verse and the surrounding context underscore the righteous and eternal nature of God’s character.