Revelation 1:7

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.

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}.

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!

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.

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

Revelation 1:7 KJV presents a powerful and dramatic prophecy regarding the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. This verse serves as a foundational statement for much of the apocalyptic vision that follows in the Book of Revelation, emphasizing the visible, universal, and undeniable nature of Christ's return.

Context

This verse is part of the opening salutation and introductory vision of the Book of Revelation, given to John on the island of Patmos. Following a blessing and a declaration of Christ's divine titles ("which is, and which was, and which is to come"), verse 7 immediately sets the stage for the book's central theme: the ultimate triumph and return of Jesus Christ. It echoes prophecies from both the Old and New Testaments, signaling a climactic event in human history.

Key Themes

  • The Visible and Glorious Return: The phrase "he cometh with clouds" directly alludes to Old Testament prophecies, particularly Daniel 7:13, and Jesus's own words concerning His return (Matthew 24:30). This signifies a divine, powerful, and unmistakable arrival, not a secret or hidden event.
  • Universal Witness: "Every eye shall see him" emphasizes the global scope of this event. His return will be undeniable and witnessed by all humanity, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. This stands in contrast to the initial, humble birth of Christ.
  • Accountability and Mourning: "And they also which pierced him" refers literally to those who crucified Jesus, but extends to all who have rejected or opposed Him throughout history. The "kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him" indicates a universal lamentation, born out of recognition, remorse, or dread, as the world confronts the reality of the King of Kings. This echoes the prophecy in Zechariah 12:10, which is also referenced in John 19:37 concerning the crucifixion.
  • Divine Affirmation: "Even so, Amen" is a strong affirmation of certainty. "Even so" (Greek: Nai) means "yes" or "certainly," and "Amen" (Greek: Amēn) means "so be it" or "truly." Together, they underscore the absolute certainty and divine decree of this prophesied event.

Linguistic Insights

The opening word, "Behold" (Greek: idou), is an interjection used to draw immediate attention, signifying the profound importance of what is about to be declared. The term "wail" (Greek: kopsontai) denotes a deep, mournful lamentation, often associated with grief, regret, or despair, highlighting the solemn nature of this universal recognition of Christ.

Practical Application

Revelation 1:7 serves as a powerful reminder of Christ's sovereignty and ultimate victory. For believers, it offers hope and assurance of a future where justice prevails and Christ's glory is fully revealed. It encourages faithfulness and readiness, knowing that His return is certain. For those who do not yet acknowledge Him, it serves as a profound call to reflection and repentance, emphasizing the universal accountability before the returning Lord. The verse compels every reader to consider their stance before Jesus Christ and to prepare for His glorious and undeniable appearing.

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Cross-References

  • Matthew 24:30 (57 votes)

    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 (47 votes)

    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 (33 votes)

    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 (26 votes)

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

  • Mark 14:62 (26 votes)

    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 (19 votes)

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

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:17 (17 votes)

    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.