What does Revelation 9:20 mean?

And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk: Revelation 9:20

Explanation

Revelation 9:20 provides a glimpse into humanity’s response to the catastrophic events described in the preceding verses of the chapter, including plagues and torments brought about by the sounding of the fifth and sixth trumpets. Despite the severity of these judgments, the verse underscores the refusal of the remaining survivors to repent for their idolatries and sinful behaviors. It reflects a hardened state of the human heart against divine warning and intervention, emphasizing a continued practice of demonology and idolatry. This unrepentant attitude indicates a deep-seated rebellion against God, where people prefer the worship of inanimate idols made of various materials over the worship of the living God, despite experiencing profound tribulations.

Historical Context

Revelation, attributed to the apostle John, is an apocalyptic text written toward the end of the 1st century A.D., in a time where early Christians faced persecution under Roman rule. The Roman Empire was steeped in polytheism and the practice of emperor worship, where idols made from precious metals were common in religious practices. Revelation uses symbolic language to communicate God’s sovereignty and the ultimate triumph of good over evil, which would have resonated with Christians facing oppression for their monotheistic beliefs and refusal to engage in idol worship.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Revelation 9:20 is a sober reminder of human stubbornness and sin. Christian tradition interprets the refusal to repent as spiritual blindness or a deliberate choice to reject God’s sovereignty. Some see the verse as an illustration of the just nature of God’s judgments—a consequence of ongoing rebellion. Others might perceive it as a call to repentance, showing God’s mercy by allowing more time for people to turn away from sin even amidst suffering.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Revelation 9:20 can be taken as a warning against complacency and idolatry in one’s own life. It challenges individuals to examine what they prioritize and worship—be it wealth, power, pleasure, or other ‘idols’—over their relationship with God. It encourages self-reflection on personal repentance and the need to turn away from practices or beliefs that are contrary to a life of faith.

Cross-References

• Revelation 16:9 – “And men were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the name of God, which hath power over these plagues: and they repented not to give him glory.”
• Revelation 2:21 – “And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not.”
• Deuteronomy 4:28 – “And there ye shall serve gods, the work of men’s hands, wood and stone, which neither see, nor hear, nor eat, nor smell.”
• Psalm 115:4-7 – “Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands. They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have they, but they see not: They have ears, but they hear not: noses have they, but they smell not: They have hands, but they handle not: feet have they, but they walk not: neither speak they through their throat.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, notable words include:

• ἔργα (erga): Translated as “works,” typically referring to deeds or actions, often associated with human efforts in contrast with divine activity.
• δαιμόνια (daimonia): Translated as “devils” or “demons,” indicating spiritual beings associated with evil influences or false gods.
• μετενόησαν (metenohesan): From the root μετανοέω (metanoeo), meaning “to repent,” to change one’s mind or turn away from sin.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The worship of idols made from gold, silver, brass, stone, and wood is common in ancient religions, such as those of Egypt, Babylon, Greece, and Rome. This contrasted sharply with the Hebrew monotheistic tradition, which strictly prohibited idolatry. The mention of these materials reflects the cultural and religious practices of the time and aims to draw a clear line between the worship of the true Creator and the false gods of surrounding nations.

Scientific Perspectives

While Revelation 9:20 does not directly relate to scientific discourse, the concepts of human behavior, belief systems, and societal responses to catastrophes can be studied through the lenses of psychology, sociology, and anthropology. The verse might inspire research into why certain communities maintain specific beliefs or practices despite adverse circumstances or authoritative directives, which could parallel contemporary studies on resistance to change, cognitive dissonance, or group dynamics.

commentaries

Commentators often interpret Revelation 9:20 through the lens of eschatology—the study of the end times. Matthew Henry’s commentary highlights the grave folly of mankind in not repenting even after such severe judgments. John Gill discusses the obstinacy of human nature and the justness of God’s retribution. Other modern commentaries focus on the thematic elements of Revelation, emphasizing the spiritual battle between good and evil, and the challenge this presents to contemporary faith and practice. Generally, scholars agree that this verse serves as a caution against idolatry and a call to genuine repentance.