What does Revelation 19:17 mean?

And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God; Revelation 19:17

Explanation

Revelation 19:17 presents a vision of an angel standing in the sun, who calls to all the birds flying in the sky to come and participate in “the supper of the great God.” This imagery is part of a series of visions depicting the events leading up to and including the final battle between good and evil, known as Armageddon. The verse symbolizes the prophesied defeat of the forces of evil by God. The “supper” metaphorically refers to the birds feasting on the slain bodies of God’s enemies, evoking scenes of a battlefield after a decisive victory. This image contrasts with the previous notion of the “Marriage Supper of the Lamb” (Revelation 19:9), which symbolizes the celebration of the union between Christ (the Lamb) and His church.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation is traditionally believed to have been written by John of Patmos towards the end of the first century AD. The Roman Empire was the dominant power at the time, and early Christians often faced persecution. The apocalyptic imagery found in Revelation served as both a form of coded language to avoid overt scrutiny from Roman authorities and as a source of hope for oppressed believers. It reassured them that despite their present suffering, God would ultimately triumph over evil.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse carries different interpretations within Christian thought. A premillennialist might see this as a literal future event preceding Christ’s thousand-year reign on earth. An amillennialist may interpret it symbolically, considering the narrative as ongoing spiritual warfare rather than a physical future battle. Postmillennialists might view this as a scene that will occur after the Christian faith has significantly influenced the world. Throughout these perspectives, the common thread is the ultimate victory of good over evil.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can encourage believers to maintain hope and faith despite adversity. It reassures them of divine justice and the ultimate triumph of righteousness. Furthermore, it serves as a warning against aligning with systems and powers deemed opposed to God’s will. In a practical sense, it motivates action based on long-term consequences rather than immediate benefits, emphasizing moral and spiritual integrity.

Cross-References

• Revelation 19:21: “And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh.”
• Ezekiel 39:17-20: “And, thou son of man, thus saith the Lord God; Speak unto every feathered fowl, and to every beast of the field, Assemble yourselves, and come; gather yourselves on every side to my sacrifice that I do sacrifice for you, even a great sacrifice upon the mountains of Israel, that ye may eat flesh, and drink blood.”
• Revelation 19:9: “And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.”

Language Study

Key words in this verse from the original Greek include:

• “Angel” (ἄγγελος, angelos): Typically a messenger of God.
• “Sun” (ἥλιος, helios): Often symbolizing glory or divine presence.
• “Fowls” (ὄρνις, ornis): Referring to birds, but here more specifically scavengers that consume carrion.
• “Supper” (δεῖπνον, deipnon): The main meal of the day, indicating a significant event or feast.
• “Great God” (θεὸς μέγας, theos megas): Emphasizing the power and sovereignty of God.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Cultures throughout history have depicted deities or divine beings as wielding power over life and death using elemental forces, which is reflective of Revelation’s symbolic language. For instance, in Norse mythology, the notion of ‘Ragnarök’ shares some similarities with the apocalyptic visions of Revelation, with a battle leading to the deaths of gods and men. Similarly, some ancient near eastern religions had rituals involving animal sacrifices that could be compared symbolically with the feast of divine victory presented in Revelation.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, the verse can be analyzed as using metaphorical language since the events portrayed do not align with natural phenomena or ecological behaviors of birds. The imagery in Revelation often operates on a symbolic or allegorical level rather than a literal or scientific one. This emphasizes the importance of understanding the genre and purpose of biblical text when considering its content in light of modern scientific knowledge.

Commentaries

Commentators offer varied interpretations of Revelation 19:17. Some conservative scholars might argue for a literal interpretation, while others suggest it is entirely symbolic. Matthew Henry’s commentary notes this verse as a preparation for the final defeat of the forces of evil, contrasting it with the joyful celebration of the righteous. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary suggests that the vision illustrates the complete and unequivocal victory that God will have over His enemies. Different commentators often emphasize the importance of the broader narrative of Revelation – God’s ultimate justice and the fulfillment of His prophetic promises.