What does Revelation 5:11 mean?

Explanation

Revelation 5:11 describes a vision in which the Apostle John sees a vast assembly of angels surrounding the throne of God.

The term "beasts" in this context refers to living creatures that are often interpreted to be cherubim, a type of angelic being.

The "elders" are generally seen as representatives of the redeemed people of God, possibly the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles, symbolizing the Old and New Testaments.

John emphasizes the sheer number of angels, using an expression "ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands" to convey an innumerable multitude.

The vision implies worship and adoration towards the Godhead and acknowledges Christ's worthiness to open the scroll mentioned earlier in the chapter.

This verse highlights the majesty and exaltation of God, as well as the acknowledgment of His sovereignty by celestial beings.

Historical Context

The book of Revelation was written by the Apostle John while he was in exile on the island of Patmos, around 95 AD. This was a period of persecution for Christians under the Roman Empire.

The book is apocalyptic literature, common at the time for its symbolic and visionary language. It provided encouragement and hope to the persecuted followers of Christ by depicting the ultimate triumph of God over evil.

Theological Insights

In Christian theology, this verse contributes to the conceptualization of the heavenly worship that takes place around God's throne, with the multitudes of angels serving as both attendants and worshipers.

This particular scene in Revelation 5 is linked to the prevailing belief in the ultimate authority of Christ (the Lamb) who is worthy to judge and redeem creation.

This passage is often cited in support of trinitarian doctrine, where Christ is venerated alongside God the Father in heaven.

Practical Applications

Revelation 5:11 can inspire believers to reflect on the grandeur of God and the dedication we should aspire to emulate in our worship and daily conduct. It encourages Christians to be part of the community that acknowledges God's sovereignty, not just in the afterlife but in the present world.

This verse also serves as a reminder for believers to maintain a humble and worshipful posture towards God, recognizing that they are part of a larger cosmic chorus praising God's majesty.

Cross-References

• Daniel 7:10: "A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened."
• Hebrews 12:22: "But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels."
• Psalm 68:17: "The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels: the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text include:

• "myriad" (μυριάδες, myriades): An ancient Greek term meaning ten thousand, often used to describe a number beyond counting.
• "voice" (φωνή, phone): Here, it doesn't simply mean sound but a proclamation indicative of a message or declaration.
• "angels" (ἄγγελοι, aggeloi): Messengers or spiritual beings in service to God.
• "elders" (πρεσβυτέρους, presbyterous): Probably symbolizing leaders or those with authority among God's people.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures, large assemblies of beings in the heavenly realm are common.

For instance, in the Greco-Roman pantheon, there are numerous gods and demigods surrounding the figure of Zeus.

In Norse mythology, the gods convene in Asgard.

In many of these traditions, these gatherings reflect a structured cosmology and social order.

In terms of religious comparison, Islam also features scenes of innumerable angels praising God, as seen in the Quran.

Scientific Perspectives

The language used in Revelation 5:11 is not meant to be scientific but symbolic, depicting an innumerable quantity implying infinity or a concept that is beyond human comprehension.

Science suggests that the universe is vast and potentially infinite, with billions of stars in myriad galaxies, which could be seen as a parallel to the countless angels in the verse.

These connections are often used to illustrate God's omnipotence and grandeur.

Commentaries

Various commentators have given their insights on Revelation 5:11.

Matthew Henry's commentary emphasizes the universality of Christ's kingdom and that the number of angels signifies that they are more than can be numbered by humans.

The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges suggests the number is hyperbolic, expressing an indefinitely great number of angels praising God.

Albert Barnes notes in his "Notes on the Bible" that the words may be designed to show that the host of heaven is indefinite and that John sought to express the idea of an innumerable company.