What does Revelation 21:13 mean?

On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. Revelation 21:13

Explanation

Revelation 21:13, found in the New Testament of the Bible, is part of the vision given to John of Patmos, describing the New Jerusalem that descends from heaven at the end of times. The verse states: “On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.” It is a depiction of the city walls with twelve gates, divided equally on all four sides. The gates likely symbolize the openness and accessibility of God’s salvation to all people from every direction. With three gates on each side, the number twelve is present, often representing perfection and authority in biblical texts.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written in the late first century AD, during a time of significant persecution of Christians. The New Jerusalem is described as a perfect holy city, in contrast with the flawed and often hostile cities in which early Christians lived. This text provided hope to believers facing adversity, suggesting a restoration of divine order and realignment of earthly cities with the heavenly ideal.

Theological Insights

Different denominations may interpret Revelation 21:13 uniquely, but several key insights are consistent:

• Eschatological Fulfillment: This verse solidifies the eschatological hope of the believer, affirming that God will establish a perfect city with complete access to salvation.
• Inclusivity: Theologians might see the gates as a symbol of inclusivity, representing an invitation from God to all nations and peoples.
• Eternal Order: The emphasis on twelve, the number of gates, links to the idea of divine governance and eternal order in scripture.

Practical Applications

The teachings of Revelation 21:13 can be applied by encouraging inclusivity within communities of faith, symbolizing the open gates as a call to welcome others. Believers are reminded that God’s kingdom will offer hope and refuge for all directions, a principle that can be echoed in one’s daily practice of hospitality and acceptance.

Cross-References

• Ezekiel 48:30-34: Describes the gates of the city, each named after a tribe of Israel.
• Isaiah 60:18: References walls and gates connected to salvation and praise.
• Matthew 8:11: Jesus mentioning that many will come from the east and west to take their places in the kingdom of heaven.

Language Study

The original Greek words for “gates” (πυλῶνας) and “three” (τρεῖς) embody the structures of entry and the concept of Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit), reinforcing ideas of divine completeness and the Holy Trinity’s role in salvation.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The depiction of a perfect city with twelve gates has parallels in other ancient cultures. For example, the city of Babylon was known for its grandiose gates and the Mesopotamian myth of a paradise had a garden with four rivers, possibly influencing the biblical imagery used in Revelation.

Scientific Perspectives

Revelation 21:13 encompasses symbolic language, and as such, does not directly relate to scientific perspectives. Instead, it articulates a metaphysical reality rather than empirical observations.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse range from viewing it as a literal description of a future city to interpreting it symbolically. Matthew Henry’s Commentary mentions the “foundation” of the church, described with symbolic precious stones. Other scholars focus on the eschatological nature of the vision and what these symbols say about God’s final plan for humanity’s redemption.