Revelation 20:6 Meaning and Explanation
“Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Those who share in the first resurrection are called blessed and holy; the second death has no power over them, and they serve as priests and reign with Christ.
What Does Revelation 20:6 Mean?
This is one of the seven beatitudes scattered through Revelation. John pronounces blessed and holy all who have part in the first resurrection. Over them the second death -- the final ruin described later in the chapter -- has no power. Instead they are made priests of God and of Christ, and they reign with Him.
Here the threat that hangs over the lost is lifted entirely from the redeemed. To be a priest is to stand near God and to draw others toward Him; to reign is to share Christ's own life and rule. This is the high calling held out to the faithful: not bare survival, but nearness to God and shared royal life with the Son. Blessedness is not merely escape from death but participation in the life of Christ.
Revelation 20:6 in the Original Language
hiereus (ἱερεύς), 'priest' -- one who serves in God's presence and mediates between God and people.
Frequently Asked Questions About Revelation 20:6
What does Revelation 20:6 mean?
Those who share in the first resurrection are called blessed and holy; the second death has no power over them, and they serve as priests and reign with Christ.