Jude 1:6

KJV

And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G5037} the angels {G32} which kept {G5083} not {G3361} their {G1438} first estate {G746}, but {G235} left {G620} their own {G2398} habitation {G3613}, he hath reserved {G5083} in everlasting {G126} chains {G1199} under {G5259} darkness {G2217} unto {G1519} the judgment {G2920} of the great {G3173} day {G2250}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And the angels that did not keep within their original authority, but abandoned their proper sphere, he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for the Judgment of the Great Day.

Berean Standard Bible

And the angels who did not stay within their own domain but abandoned their proper dwelling—these He has kept in eternal chains under darkness, bound for judgment on that great day.

American Standard Version

And angels that kept not their own principality, but left their proper habitation, he hath kept in everlasting bonds under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jude 1:6 delivers a solemn warning concerning the unwavering nature of God's judgment, even against powerful celestial beings who rebelled against His divine order. This verse, embedded within Jude's urgent plea for believers to contend for the faith, serves as a stark historical precedent, illustrating God's absolute sovereignty and the certain retribution awaiting all who abandon their divinely appointed roles and truth. It highlights that no creature, regardless of their original status or power, is exempt from accountability before the righteous Creator.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jude's concise epistle is a passionate and urgent appeal to contend for the faith against insidious false teachers who had infiltrated the early Christian communities. To underscore the severity of their apostasy and the inevitability of divine judgment, Jude employs a series of historical examples of God's swift and severe punishment for rebellion. Immediately preceding this verse, Jude references the Israelites who, despite being saved from Egypt, were later destroyed for their unbelief ([Jude 1:5](/jude/1-5 "Jude 1:5 - Judgment on Unbelieving Israelites")). Following the judgment of the angels, Jude continues with the example of Sodom and Gomorrah, which suffered eternal fire for their immorality ([Jude 1:7](/jude/1-7 "Jude 1:7 - Judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah")). This tripartite structure of historical judgments—Israel, angels, and the cities of the plain—forms a powerful rhetorical device, building an undeniable case for the certain doom awaiting the ungodly false teachers Jude condemns.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While Jude does not specify the exact angelic rebellion, the reference to "angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation" likely alludes to a well-known tradition within Second Temple Judaism concerning fallen angels. This tradition often drew from interpretations of [Genesis 6:1-4](/genesis/6-1-4 "Genesis 6:1-4 - The Sons of God and Nephilim"), where "sons of God" (often understood as angels) descended to earth, took human wives, and produced offspring (Nephilim). This act was seen as a profound transgression against their divinely appointed boundaries and roles, leading to their imprisonment. Texts like the Book of Enoch, widely circulated and influential in Jude's time, elaborate on this narrative, describing these angels being bound in darkness until a final judgment. Jude's audience would have been familiar with such interpretations, making this reference a potent and readily understood example of divine retribution for cosmic rebellion.
* **Key Themes:** Jude 1:6 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the epistle. Firstly, it emphasizes **Divine Judgment and Retribution**, demonstrating that God's justice is impartial and extends even to powerful spiritual beings who defy His authority. Secondly, it highlights the **Seriousness of Rebellion and Apostasy**, showing that abandoning one's God-given place or truth carries severe consequences, a direct warning to the false teachers and their followers. Thirdly, the verse reinforces the **Certainty of Future Accountability**, as these angels are "reserved...unto the judgment of the great day," assuring believers that ultimate justice will prevail against all forms of evil and unrighteousness, culminating in a final, definitive reckoning. This theme provides comfort to the faithful and a stern warning to the ungodly.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **first estate (Greek, _archḗ'_):** From G746, this word fundamentally means 'beginning,' 'origin,' 'rule,' 'dominion,' or 'principality.' In this context, it refers to the angels' original, divinely appointed position, rank, or sphere of authority and operation. By "kept not their first estate," these angels failed to maintain or abide within the boundaries of their proper place and God-given authority, initiating a profound act of rebellion against the divine order.
* **habitation (Greek, _oikētḗrion'_):** From G3613, this term denotes a 'residence,' 'dwelling place,' or 'abode.' It reinforces the idea that these angels abandoned their assigned spiritual or perhaps even physical realm. Their sin involved not merely a moral failing but a transgression of spatial and ontological boundaries established by God, forsaking the place where they were meant to dwell and function according to His design.
* **chains (Greek, _desmón'_)::** From G1199, this word signifies a 'band,' 'ligament,' or 'shackle' used to bind a prisoner. When combined with G126 (_aḯdios_, meaning 'everduring' or 'everlasting'), it conveys a state of secure, inescapable, and permanent confinement. These are not necessarily literal physical chains but represent an unbreakable bond of divine decree, a spiritual imprisonment that holds these angels captive in a state of darkness, awaiting their final judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the angels which kept not their first estate,"**: This clause introduces the subjects of God's judgment: a specific group of angels. The phrase "kept not their first estate" indicates a failure to maintain their original, divinely ordained position, authority, or sphere of operation. This implies a deliberate act of disobedience and a rejection of the boundaries God had set for them.
* **"but left their own habitation,"**: This second clause clarifies and intensifies the nature of their transgression. "Left their own habitation" signifies that these angels abandoned their assigned dwelling place or spiritual realm. This act reinforces the idea of a profound rebellion, not merely a lapse in duty but a willful departure from their divinely appointed sphere, often understood in relation to their interaction with humanity (e.g., in Genesis 6).
* **"he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness"**: This phrase describes the immediate consequence of their rebellion: God's active and decisive judgment. "He hath reserved" emphasizes God's sovereign action in their confinement. They are held "in everlasting chains," signifying a permanent and inescapable imprisonment, a divine restraint that binds them. This confinement is "under darkness," symbolizing their spiritual deprivation, isolation, and exclusion from God's light and presence, a state of profound misery and hopelessness.
* **"unto the judgment of the great day."**: This final clause specifies the purpose and duration of their reservation. Their current imprisonment is not their final punishment but a prelude to a definitive, ultimate sentencing. "The great day" refers to the eschatological day of God's final judgment, a climactic moment of divine reckoning when all unrighteousness, including that of these rebellious angels, will receive its just and ultimate condemnation.

#### Literary Devices
Jude 1:6 employs several powerful literary devices. **Imagery** is prominent, particularly in phrases like "everlasting chains under darkness," which conjures a vivid picture of secure, inescapable, and miserable confinement. This imagery is not merely literal but functions as **Symbolism**, where "chains" represent an unbreakable divine decree of restraint, and "darkness" symbolizes spiritual isolation, deprivation, and separation from God's light and favor. The verse also utilizes **Allusion**, referring to a specific angelic rebellion that was likely well-known to Jude's audience through Jewish tradition (e.g., the "sons of God" in [Genesis 6](/genesis/6 "Genesis 6 - The Sons of God and Nephilim")). Furthermore, there is a clear **Parallelism** with [2 Peter 2:4](/2_peter/2-4 "2 Peter 2:4 - God's Judgment on Angels Who Sinned"), indicating a shared theological understanding and perhaps a common source of tradition regarding this specific angelic fall and its consequences.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jude 1:6 serves as a profound theological anchor, affirming God's absolute sovereignty and unyielding justice. It underscores that divine judgment is not arbitrary but a righteous response to rebellion, applicable to all beings regardless of their power or original status. The reservation of these angels in "everlasting chains under darkness" demonstrates that God maintains perfect control over all spiritual forces, even those that have rebelled, ensuring that evil is ultimately contained and will face a final reckoning. This provides immense comfort to believers, assuring them that God is just and that all unrighteousness will eventually be brought to account, reinforcing the certainty of His ultimate triumph over all opposition.

* [2 Peter 2:4](/2_peter/2-4 "2 Peter 2:4 - God's Judgment on Angels Who Sinned")
* [Matthew 25:41](/matthew/25-41 "Matthew 25:41 - Eternal Fire for the Devil and His Angels")
* [Revelation 20:10](/revelation/20-10 "Revelation 20:10 - The Devil Cast into the Lake of Fire")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jude 1:6 offers a sobering yet encouraging truth for believers today. It reminds us that God's holiness demands justice, and His justice is impartial, extending to the highest of created beings. This should instill a profound reverence for God's authority and a deep seriousness about our own obedience. If angels, with their exalted status and proximity to God, faced such severe consequences for rebellion, how much more should humanity, recipients of God's grace, take heed of His commands? This verse also provides immense assurance that evil, though seemingly rampant, is ultimately under God's control. The "everlasting chains" and the "judgment of the great day" signify that God has already decreed the end of all rebellion. For those who contend for the faith, this means that our struggles against spiritual darkness and false teachings are not in vain; God will ultimately prevail, and justice will be served. This truth should embolden us to stand firm in the truth, knowing that our God is sovereign over all.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the judgment of these angels reinforce your understanding of God's absolute sovereignty and justice?**
* **What practical implications does the "seriousness of disobedience" have for your own walk of faith and commitment to God's truth?**
* **In what ways does the certainty of a future "great day" of judgment provide comfort or challenge to your perspective on current global or personal struggles?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "angels which kept not their first estate" mentioned in Jude 1:6?**

Answer: While Jude does not explicitly name them, this verse, along with its parallel in [2 Peter 2:4](/2_peter/2-4 "2 Peter 2:4 - God's Judgment on Sinning Angels"), is widely understood to refer to a specific group of angels who engaged in a profound act of rebellion against God's established order. Many biblical scholars and ancient Jewish traditions connect this event to the narrative in [Genesis 6:1-4](/genesis/6-1-4 "Genesis 6:1-4 - The Sons of God and Nephilim"), where "the sons of God" (often interpreted as angels) descended to earth, took human wives, and produced offspring. This act was considered a violation of their divinely appointed boundaries and roles, leading to their unique imprisonment. It is distinct from the general fall of Satan and his angels, though it shares the principle of rebellion against God's authority.

**What is meant by "everlasting chains under darkness"?**

Answer: The phrase "everlasting chains under darkness" describes the state of secure and inescapable confinement for these rebellious angels. "Everlasting chains" ([Greek: _desmón_](/jude/1-6 "Jude 1:6 - Everlasting Chains")) are not necessarily literal physical chains but symbolize an unbreakable, permanent bond of divine decree that holds them captive. This signifies a judgment that is eternal in its effect and duration. The "darkness" ([Greek: _zóphos_](/jude/1-6 "Jude 1:6 - Under Darkness")) symbolizes their spiritual and literal deprivation, a state of profound misery, isolation, and exclusion from God's light, presence, and favor. It represents their complete separation from the divine realm they once inhabited.

**What is "the judgment of the great day"?**

Answer: "The judgment of the great day" refers to the ultimate, climactic day of God's final reckoning for all unrighteousness. This eschatological event is often associated with the [Great White Throne Judgment](/revelation/20-11-15 "Revelation 20:11-15 - The Great White Throne Judgment") described in [Revelation 20:11-15](/revelation/20-11-15 "Revelation 20:11-15 - The Great White Throne Judgment"), or the final definitive sentencing for all who have rebelled against God. For these angels, their current imprisonment is a prelude to this final, public, and irreversible condemnation. It assures believers that divine justice will ultimately prevail, and all evil, both human and angelic, will face its just and final punishment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jude 1:6, while depicting God's severe judgment on rebellious angels, ultimately points to the supreme authority and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The very act of God reserving these angels in "everlasting chains under darkness" highlights His absolute sovereignty over all creation, including spiritual forces of evil. This divine control is fully vested in Christ, who, as the [Son of God](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), has all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). He is the one who [triumphed over principalities and powers](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers") through His death and resurrection, disarming them. The "judgment of the great day" to which these angels are reserved is ultimately administered by Christ Himself, for the Father "has given him authority to execute judgment because he is the Son of Man" ([John 5:27](/john/5-27 "John 5:27 - Jesus Given Authority to Judge")). Thus, the fate of these fallen angels underscores the ultimate victory of Christ over all evil and rebellion, securing the eternal salvation of those who trust in Him and assuring His followers that no power, visible or invisible, can thwart His divine plan or escape His final, righteous judgment. His triumph guarantees the ultimate defeat of all who oppose God, providing profound assurance and hope for believers.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Peter 2:4

For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast [them] down to hell, and delivered [them] into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;

Matthew 25:41

Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:

Ephesians 6:12

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places].

Matthew 8:29

And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?

2 Peter 2:9

The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:

Hebrews 10:27

But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

John 8:44

Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.