Revelation 1:7

KJV

Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they [also] which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold {G2400}, he cometh {G2064} with {G3326} clouds {G3507}; and {G2532} every {G3956} eye {G3788} shall see {G3700} him {G846}, and {G2532} they also which {G3748} pierced {G1574} him {G846}: and {G2532} all {G3956} kindreds {G5443} of the earth {G1093} shall wail {G2875} because {G1909} of him {G846}. Even so {G3483}, Amen {G281}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Look! He is coming with the clouds!
Every eye will see him,
including those who pierced him;
and all the tribes of the Land will mourn him.

Yes! Amen!

Berean Standard Bible

Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him—even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen.

American Standard Version

Behold, he cometh with the clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they that pierced him; and all the tribes of the earth shall mourn over him. Even so, Amen.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 1:7 powerfully declares the dramatic and universal return of Jesus Christ, portraying a visible and undeniable advent where every person on earth, including those historically responsible for His crucifixion and all who have rejected Him, will witness His glorious appearance. This climactic event will evoke a profound, widespread lamentation across all humanity, serving as a solemn affirmation of His ultimate sovereignty and the certainty of divine justice, underscored by John's emphatic "Even so, Amen."

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the opening salutation and introductory vision of the Book of Revelation, immediately following a doxology to Christ and a declaration of His eternal and sovereign titles (e.g., "the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth" in [Revelation 1:5](/revelation/1-5 "Revelation 1:5 - Christ's Titles")). It serves as a foundational prophetic statement, setting the eschatological tone for the entire book by announcing the central event—the Second Coming of Jesus Christ—before delving into the detailed apocalyptic visions. This immediate declaration grounds the subsequent intricate symbolism in the concrete reality of Christ's future triumph and judgment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Revelation was written by John to seven churches in Asia Minor during a period of intense Roman persecution, likely under Emperor Domitian, who demanded emperor worship. Christians faced immense pressure to compromise their faith, enduring imprisonment and martyrdom. In this context, apocalyptic literature, prevalent in both Jewish and early Christian traditions, served to offer hope, encouragement, and a divine perspective on suffering. The imagery of Christ "coming with clouds" would resonate deeply with Old Testament prophecies of divine manifestation and judgment, providing assurance of God's ultimate victory over oppressive earthly powers and a call to steadfast endurance for the faithful.

* **Key Themes:** Revelation 1:7 encapsulates several pivotal themes that permeate the entire book. Firstly, it highlights the **Sovereignty and Triumph of Christ**, asserting His ultimate authority over all earthly powers and His undeniable return as King of Kings. Secondly, it underscores **Universal Accountability**, emphasizing that His coming will be witnessed by "every eye" and will elicit a response from "all kindreds of the earth," signaling a global reckoning. Thirdly, the verse introduces the theme of **Divine Justice and Judgment**, particularly through the "wailing" of those who rejected Him, signifying the consequences of unbelief and rebellion. Finally, the concluding "Even so, Amen" powerfully conveys the **Certainty of Prophecy**, assuring believers of the absolute truth and fulfillment of God's promises, providing a firm foundation for hope amidst tribulation, a theme echoed in [Revelation 22:20](/revelation/22-20 "Revelation 22:20 - Jesus's Promise to Return").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Behold (Greek, _idoú_):** G2400 - This interjection functions as a command, "lo!" or "see!" It is used to draw immediate and emphatic attention to the profound and dramatic declaration that follows, signaling the immense importance and certainty of Christ's impending arrival. It demands a posture of readiness and anticipation from the reader.
* **Cometh (Greek, _érchomai_):** G2064 - This verb signifies a dynamic, active coming or going. In the context of Revelation 1:7, it denotes a powerful, deliberate, and unstoppable arrival of Christ, emphasizing His initiative and sovereign control over this climactic event, rather than a passive or forced appearance.
* **Pierced (Greek, _ekkentéō_):** G1574 - Meaning "to transfix," this word is a direct and poignant reference to the crucifixion of Jesus, specifically recalling the soldier piercing His side with a spear (as recorded in [John 19:34](/john/19-34 "John 19:34 - The Piercing of Jesus's Side")). Its inclusion here highlights the continuity between Christ's suffering and His glorious return, ensuring that His identity as the crucified Messiah is central to His triumphant second advent.
* **Wail (Greek, _kóptō_):** G2875 - This verb means "to chop," and specifically, "to beat the breast in grief" or "to lament." It describes a deep, public, and mournful expression of sorrow, often associated with intense regret, despair, or fear. In this context, it signifies the universal anguish and dread that will seize humanity upon recognizing the true identity of the One they rejected, as He returns in glory and judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold, he cometh with clouds":** This opening phrase serves as a dramatic announcement, demanding attention to the imminent and visible return of Jesus. The imagery of "clouds" is deeply significant, recalling Old Testament depictions of divine presence, glory, and judgment (e.g., [Exodus 19:9](/exodus/19-9 "God's Presence on Mount Sinai") and [Daniel 7:13](/daniel/7-13 "Daniel's Vision of the Son of Man")), as well as Jesus's own prophecies of His return (e.g., [Matthew 24:30](/matthew/24-30 "Jesus's Prophecy of His Return")). It signifies a powerful, supernatural, and unmistakable arrival, not a secret or hidden event.
* **"and every eye shall see him":** This clause emphasizes the universal and undeniable nature of Christ's return. His advent will not be confined to a specific region or group; rather, it will be a globally witnessed event, transcending all geographical and cultural boundaries. This universal visibility underscores the absolute authority and inescapable reality of His coming.
* **"and they [also] which pierced him":** This phrase directly references those who were historically responsible for Jesus's crucifixion. However, in a broader theological sense, it extends to all who have rejected, opposed, or metaphorically "pierced" Christ through their unbelief and sin throughout history. It highlights a particular aspect of the universal witness: even His enemies will be forced to acknowledge His identity and authority.
* **"and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him":** This clause describes the universal response to Christ's return. "All kindreds" (or tribes/families) signifies every ethnic group and nation on earth. Their "wailing" indicates a profound lamentation, stemming from a mixture of recognition, regret, fear, and despair as they confront the glorious reality of the One they scorned or ignored. This echoes the prophecy in [Zechariah 12:10](/zechariah/12-10 "Prophecy of Mourning for the Pierced One"), which speaks of mourning for the one who was pierced.
* **"Even so, Amen.":** This concluding affirmation, spoken by John, underscores the absolute certainty and divine decree of the prophesied event. "Even so" (Greek: _Nai_) is a strong affirmative ("yes," "certainly"), and "Amen" (Greek: _Amēn_) signifies "so be it" or "truly," a powerful declaration of agreement and certainty. Together, they seal the prophetic truth, assuring the reader that this event is not merely a possibility but a divinely guaranteed reality.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 1:7 is rich in literary devices that enhance its dramatic impact and theological depth. The opening word, **Interjection** "Behold" (Greek: _idou_), immediately grabs the reader's attention, signaling the profound importance of the declaration that follows. The phrase "he cometh with clouds" employs **Allusion**, directly referencing Old Testament prophecies of divine appearance and the Son of Man (e.g., [Daniel 7:13](/daniel/7-13 "Daniel's Vision of the Son of Man")), which would be instantly recognizable to a Jewish audience. The "clouds" themselves serve as **Symbolism** for divine glory, power, and presence, often associated with judgment. The phrases "every eye shall see him" and "all kindreds of the earth" utilize **Hyperbole** and **Universality** to emphasize the global and undeniable nature of Christ's return, leaving no one untouched or unwitnessing. The specific mention of "they also which pierced him" is a poignant **Allusion** to Christ's crucifixion, creating **Dramatic Irony** as those who inflicted His suffering will be forced to witness His ultimate triumph. Finally, the concluding "Even so, Amen" acts as a powerful **Affirmation** and **Doxology**, sealing the prophecy with divine certainty and inviting the reader's assent.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 1:7 serves as a foundational declaration for the entire apocalyptic vision, powerfully articulating the eschatological hope and warning central to Christian theology. It establishes Christ's ultimate sovereignty and His role as the returning King and Judge, emphasizing that His second advent will be a visible, universal, and undeniable event that elicits a profound response from all humanity. This universal witness and the accompanying lamentation underscore themes of divine justice, accountability, and the ultimate triumph of God's redemptive plan, reminding believers of their blessed hope while serving as a stark warning to those who reject Him. The verse encapsulates the culmination of history, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess, whether in adoration or in dread, that Jesus Christ is Lord.

* [Daniel 7:13](/daniel/7-13 "Daniel's Vision of the Son of Man")
* [Matthew 24:30](/matthew/24-30 "Jesus's Prophecy of His Return")
* [Zechariah 12:10](/zechariah/12-10 "Prophecy of Mourning for the Pierced One")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 1:7 is not merely a distant prophecy but a profound call to present-day reflection and action. For believers, it offers immense hope and assurance, reminding us that our King will return to establish His perfect reign, bringing justice and peace. This certainty should fuel our perseverance in faith, our commitment to holiness, and our passion for sharing the Gospel, knowing that the time is short and the stakes are eternal. It encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, prioritizing what truly matters in light of His imminent return. For those who have not yet acknowledged Christ, this verse serves as a solemn warning and a gracious invitation. The universal wailing signifies a moment of undeniable truth and reckoning, urging all to consider their standing before the returning Lord and to embrace His offer of salvation before that day arrives. Ultimately, Revelation 1:7 compels every individual to examine their heart, repent of sin, and prepare for the glorious and undeniable appearing of Jesus Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the certainty of Christ's visible and universal return impact your daily living and priorities?**
* **In what ways does the concept of "every eye shall see him" challenge or affirm your understanding of divine justice and mercy?**
* **Considering that "all kindreds of the earth shall wail," what is your personal response to the prospect of Christ's return, and how might this shape your evangelistic efforts or personal testimony?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "he cometh with clouds"?**

Answer: The imagery of "coming with clouds" is deeply rooted in Old Testament theology, signifying a divine, powerful, and glorious manifestation of God's presence and authority. It recalls instances like God's appearance on Mount Sinai in [Exodus 19:9](/exodus/19-9 "God's Presence on Mount Sinai") and the vision of the "Son of Man" coming with the clouds of heaven in [Daniel 7:13](/daniel/7-13 "Daniel's Vision of the Son of Man"). Jesus Himself used this imagery to describe His Second Coming (e.g., [Matthew 24:30](/matthew/24-30 "Jesus's Prophecy of His Return")). Furthermore, it connects to His ascension, where He was "taken up into a cloud" (as described in [Acts 1:9-11](/acts/1-9-11 "Jesus's Ascension and Promise of Return")), with the promise that He would return "in like manner." Thus, it signifies a visible, supernatural, and undeniable return in divine glory and power.

**Who are "they also which pierced him"?**

Answer: This phrase primarily refers to those who were directly involved in the crucifixion of Jesus, specifically recalling the Roman soldier who pierced His side with a spear (as mentioned in [John 19:37](/john/19-37 "John's Account of Jesus's Pierced Side"), which quotes [Zechariah 12:10](/zechariah/12-10 "Prophecy of Mourning for the Pierced One")). However, its theological scope extends beyond the historical participants. It symbolically includes all who have rejected, scorned, or opposed Jesus throughout history, effectively "piercing" Him anew through their unbelief and sin (a concept echoed in [Hebrews 6:6](/hebrews/6-6 "Crucifying the Son of God A fresh")). This highlights the profound irony and justice that those who once rejected Him will be compelled to witness His glorious return.

**Why will "all kindreds of the earth... wail"?**

Answer: The universal "wailing" signifies a profound and widespread lamentation that will sweep across all humanity ("all kindreds" or tribes/families) upon Christ's return. This wailing is not necessarily a sign of repentance for all, but rather a multifaceted response of grief, fear, and despair. It stems from the sudden, undeniable realization of Christ's true identity and absolute authority, and the recognition of their own rebellion or neglect. For some, it may be the sorrow of missed opportunity or the terror of impending judgment, as the world confronts the King of Kings whom they rejected. This echoes the prophetic mourning described in [Zechariah 12:10](/zechariah/12-10 "Prophecy of Mourning for the Pierced One"), where the people will look upon the one they have pierced and mourn.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 1:7 stands as a powerful Christ-centered declaration, asserting that the culmination of all history is inextricably linked to the person and work of Jesus Christ. His "coming with clouds" directly fulfills Old Testament messianic prophecies, presenting Him not merely as a historical figure but as the divine Son of Man, the sovereign Lord of all. While His first coming was in humility, as the suffering servant who was indeed "pierced" for the sins of the world (as foretold in [Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - Pierced for Our Transgressions")), His second coming will be in undeniable glory and power. This verse confirms that the One who suffered and died, conquering sin and death through His resurrection, is the very One who will return as King and Judge. His return ensures that every eye will behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), and every knee will ultimately bow before Him, whether in worship or in judgment ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). Thus, Revelation 1:7 is the ultimate vindication of Christ's redemptive work, bringing to completion the cosmic drama of salvation and judgment, and establishing His eternal reign over all creation ([Colossians 1:15-20](/colossians/1-15-20 "Colossians 1:15-20 - The Supremacy of Christ")).

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

Matthew 24:30

And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.

Zechariah 12:10

And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for [his] only [son], and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for [his] firstborn.

Daniel 7:13

I saw in the night visions, and, behold, [one] like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him.

John 19:37

And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced.

Mark 14:62

And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

Luke 21:27

And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.

1 Thessalonians 4:17

Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.