Revelation 1:16 Meaning and Explanation
“And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →He holds seven stars in His right hand, a sharp two-edged sword comes from His mouth, and His face shines like the sun at full strength.
What Does Revelation 1:16 Mean?
The description of the glorified Christ reaches its climax. In His right hand He holds seven stars, the place of honor and safekeeping. From His mouth comes a sharp two-edged sword, and His face blazes like the sun shining in full strength. The meaning of the seven stars is given at the chapter's close.
The right hand that holds the stars is the hand of protection, keeping His own secure. The sword from His mouth pictures the power of His word, which both judges and saves, cutting through every pretense. His shining face recalls moments when His glory was unveiled, too bright to gaze upon. Here is no distant deity but the living Lord, radiant, armed with truth, and holding His people fast. Small wonder that the next verse records John falling down before Him.
Revelation 1:16 in the Original Language
rhomphaia (ῥομφαία), 'sword' -- a large broad sword, here picturing the piercing power of Christ's spoken word.
Frequently Asked Questions About Revelation 1:16
What does Revelation 1:16 mean?
He holds seven stars in His right hand, a sharp two-edged sword comes from His mouth, and His face shines like the sun at full strength.