What does Revelation 5:7 mean?

And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne. Revelation 5:7

Explanation

Revelation 5:7 is a crucial verse in the context of Christian eschatology, depicting a scene from John’s vision of the end times as recorded in the Book of Revelation. The verse reads, “And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.” Here, the “he” refers to the Lamb of God, who is widely understood to be a representation of Jesus Christ, embodying His role as the Redeemer and Savior. The “book” or scroll is often interpreted to contain God’s divine plans for judgment and redemption. The act of taking the scroll from “him that sat upon the throne,” who is God the Father, signifies the authority and worthiness of the Lamb to execute the plans written within it.

Historical Context

Revelation was written during a time when Christians faced persecution from the Roman Empire. Its author, traditionally believed to be John the Apostle, was addressing a Christian audience towards the end of the first century AD. The symbolic and apocalyptic nature of the text reflected the struggles of early Christians and provided hope and assurance that God would ultimately triumph over evil.

Theological Insights

Theological interpretations of Revelation 5:7 vary among different Christian denominations. Some view it literally as prophecy about future events, while others regard it as symbolic of the spiritual victory over sin through Jesus Christ. Theologically, this verse emphasizes the uniqueness and supremacy of Christ as the only one worthy to execute God’s plan for humanity. It also lays the foundation for the following “new song” praising the Lamb for his worthiness to open the scroll, which is linked to the idea of redemption through Christ’s sacrifice.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, this verse encourages believers to recognize and affirm the sovereignty of Jesus Christ in both the cosmos and their personal lives. It serves as a call to trust in the divine plan and the ultimate victory of good over evil. It can also inspire Christians to approach Christ with reverence and to acknowledge His unique role in the story of salvation.

Cross-References

• Revelation 4:2-3: “And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.”
• Revelation 5:5-6: “And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.”
• Revelation 5:9-10: “[They] sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of Revelation 5:7 merit attention:

• “Came” (ἦλθεν – ēlthen) conveys motion and action, emphasizing the Lamb’s initiative.
• “Took” (εἴληφεν – eilēphen) is a verb indicating possession or receiving with authority.
• “Book” (βιβλίον – biblion) refers to a scroll, in this context likely containing prophetic or divine content.
• “Hand” (δεξιά – dexia) often symbolizes power and authority, with the right hand signifying a place of honor.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons can be made with other ancient religions that use similar motifs. For example, in various mythologies, divine figures are often tasked with unsealing or revealing hidden wisdom or destiny (e.g., the ancient Mesopotamian god Enki/Ea and the Akashic Records in theosophy). The notion of the book or scroll in Revelation also parallels the Jewish concept of the “Book of Life,” where deeds are recorded.

Scientific Perspectives

While Revelation is a theological text rather than a scientific one, contemporary readers may interpret the symbols and actions metaphorically to contemplate the nature of the universe. The idea of a scroll containing the plan for the cosmos could prompt reflection on how science seeks to understand the laws that govern the physical world and the human condition.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators offer various insights into Revelation 5:7. Some, like Matthew Henry, emphasize the Lamb’s worthiness and the profound significance of the event in God’s redemptive history. Others, such as Craig S. Keener in “The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament”, highlight the Roman political background and how the imagery would resonate with an audience familiar with imperial cults and authority. Many agree that this verse sets the stage for the ensuing judgments and visions in the Book of Revelation, marking the Lamb’s central role in divine providence.