What does Revelation 19:2 mean?

For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand. Revelation 19:2

Explanation

Revelation 19:2 is a verse that contributes to the climax of the apocalyptic narrative found in the Book of Revelation. It expresses a declaration of the justice and truth of God’s judgments. The verse specifically mentions the judgment of “the great whore,” symbolically representing a corrupt system or entity that has led others astray, causing moral decay with her “fornication” – interpreted as idolatrous activities or alliances with the corrupt powers of the world. Moreover, this verse conveys a sense of vindication as God has avenged the blood of His servants, implying that those who have suffered persecution and martyrdom for their faithfulness to God have now received justice.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written in the late first century, traditionally attributed to John of Patmos. The text reflects the sociopolitical circumstances of the early Christian communities, who experienced persecution under the Roman Empire. The “great whore” or “Babylon” often symbolizes Rome or its imperial cult, which demanded worship of the emperor. It can also represent the broader concept of a corrupt and idolatrous society that opposes the ways of God.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Revelation 19:2 speaks to the righteous character of God and the assurance of his final justice. It emphasizes the idea of divine retribution against evil and vindication for the oppressed. This verse is interpreted variously among Christian denominations: some view it as a historical event, while others see it as a future, eschatological reality. Additionally, there are allegorical readings that understand the “great whore” as a metaphor for systemic sin and injustice throughout history.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse can inspire believers to maintain fidelity to their faith amidst a world that can be morally compromising. It serves as a reminder of the eventual triumph of God’s justice and the importance of aligning oneself with divine principles rather than societal norms that go against those principles. It may also encourage advocacy for justice and support for those who suffer persecution and oppression.

Cross-References

• Revelation 17:1-2 – “…Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters: With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication…”
• Revelation 18:20 – “Rejoice over her, thou heaven, and ye holy apostles and prophets; for God hath avenged you on her.”
• Revelation 16:5-7 – “…Thou art righteous, O Lord, which art, and wast, and shalt be, because thou hast judged thus.”

Language Study

The key terms in the original Greek text include:

• “True” (ἀληθιναί – alēthinai): connoting something that is genuine or authentic.
• “Righteous” (δίκαιαι – dikai) imply fair and just decisions, without bias or injustice.
• “Judgments” (κρίματα – krimata): signifies verdicts or decisions made after a trial.
• “Great whore” (πόρνης – pornēs): a metaphorical term for someone or something leading others into idolatry.
• “Corrupt” (έφθειρεν – ephtheiren) means to spoil or ruin, often moral decay.
• “Fornication” (πορνεύσασιν – porneusasin): typically used to mean sexual immorality, but in this context, it can refer to spiritual unfaithfulness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the context of other ancient myths and religious iterations, the image of a “great whore” as a corrupting influence is somewhat common. Several Mesopotamian, Greek, and Roman religions used prostitution metaphorically for religious unfaithfulness. Similarly, in ancient Near Eastern texts, cities or nations were often personified as women who could either be faithful brides or unfaithful prostitutes, reflecting the political and religious loyalty or betrayal.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific community generally does not intersect with the apocalyptic and symbolic language found in Revelation 19:2. The passage is viewed through the lens of theological, literary, and historical study rather than empirical scientific analysis, considering the metaphorical nature of the text and its apocalyptic genre.

Commentaries

Commentators offer varied insights into Revelation 19:2. Some, like Matthew Henry, focus on the comfort this assurance of divine justice gives to believers. Others, such as Craig S. Keener, might delve into the historical background of Roman persecution to contextualize the vindication theme. Futurist interpretations, like those by Hal Lindsey, would emphasize the future fulfillment of these prophecies. Each scholar agrees on the ultimate message that God’s judgments are fair and true, but they differ in how they apply this understanding to the past, present, and future.