What does Revelation 6:11 mean?

And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled. Revelation 6:11

Explanation

Revelation 6:11 speaks to us from the vision of the Apostle John on the isle of Patmos, as he describes the opening of the fifth seal in the book of Revelation. In his vision, John sees the souls of martyrs—those who had been slain for their testimony and the word of God—under the altar in heaven.

These martyrs are asking how long until their blood is avenged and divine justice is served upon those who dwell on the earth. In response to their plea, white robes are given to each of them. The white robes symbolize purity and righteousness, as well as the victory and vindication they have in the presence of God. They are then told to rest a little while longer until their fellow servants and brothers, who are to be martyred as they were, have their number completed. This verse captures the expectation of vindication for the wrongs suffered by God’s people and the assurance that God is in control of the timeline of events.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written by the Apostle John while he was in exile on the island of Patmos, around the end of the first century A.D. during the reign of Emperor Domitian. Christians during this time were undergoing persecution at the hands of the Roman Empire, and martyrdom was a very real and present reality for the early Christian community. This apocalyptic book served to offer hope and encouragement to those suffering, as well as a promise that God’s justice would ultimately prevail.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse brings forth several key insights:

1. Martyrdom – The early Christian understanding that to die for one’s faith is a noble act, leading to a special place of honor in the afterlife.
2. Divine Justice – There’s an assurance of ultimate divine reckoning for injustices suffered by the righteous.
3. Patience in Suffering – God’s people are called to endure and trust in God’s timing, even in the face of suffering and persecution.
4. Eschatology (study of the end times) – This verse is also important in discussions on the Christian belief in the second coming of Christ and the final judgment.

Practical Applications

This verse can be practically applied in various ways:

1. Perseverance in Faith – Believers facing trials are encouraged to stand firm in their convictions, knowing they are righteous in God’s eyes.
2. Comfort in Mourning – Those who have lost loved ones to acts of faith may find solace in the promise of justice and reunification.
3. Advocacy for Justice – Christians may feel inspired to advocate for the oppressed and work towards a world where divine principles of justice are enacted.

Cross-References

• Revelation 20:4 – This verse also talks about the souls of the martyrs and their reward in heaven.
• Matthew 5:10 – Jesus speaks about the blessing for those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake.
• 2 Timothy 2:12 – This verse talks about enduring and reigning with Christ, which is related to the theme of martyrdom and reward.
• Hebrews 11:40 – Alludes to the idea of completeness and waiting for others, similar to the martyrs waiting for their numbers to be fulfilled.

Language Study

The key phrases in this passage, when examined in their original Koine Greek, carry deeper meanings:

• White robes (ἐσθῆτας λευκάς) – “White” in Greek (λευκάς) carries connotations of brightness and purity, and the “robe” (ἐσθῆτας) is often a symbol of one’s status or righteousness.
• Rest (ἀναπαύσωνται) – This word suggests a cessation of labor or trouble, offering a period of peace and comfort.
• Little season (μικρὸν χρόνον) – The specificity of a small or brief period of time implies that the waiting of the martyrs is temporary and limited by divine decree.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient cultures and religions, the idea of righteous suffering leading to reward or vindication in the afterlife is prevalent. However, what is distinctive in this Christian text is the personal relationship that the martyrs have with their divine advocate, God or Christ, and the personalized nature of retributive justice.

Scientific Perspectives

While the language of Revelation is highly symbolic and the concept of martyrdom is primarily theological and historical rather than scientific, modern psychology can lend insight into the coping mechanisms found in religious belief during times of extreme stress or trauma, such as persecution.

Commentaries

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary – Henry views this as divine consolation to the martyrs, a confirmation of their faith and sufferings, and sees the “little season” as the time between their death and the overthrow of their persecutors.
• The Interpreter’s Bible – This source elaborates on the necessity of the completion of the number of martyrs, suggesting that there is a divine plan or fullness to be achieved which the martyrs look forward to.
• Barnes’ Notes on the Bible – Barnes emphasizes the patience and faith required of martyrs, acknowledging that their reward is certain and the justice of God will be meted out in due time.