Revelation 10:2

KJV

And he had in his hand a little book open: and he set his right foot upon the sea, and [his] left [foot] on the earth,

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} he had {G2192} in {G1722} his {G846} hand {G5495} a little book {G974} open {G455}: and {G2532} he set {G5087} his {G846} right {G1188} foot {G4228} upon {G1909} the sea {G2281}, and {G1161} his left {G2176} foot on {G1909} the earth {G1093},

Complete Jewish Bible

and he had a little scroll lying open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land,

Berean Standard Bible

He held in his hand a small scroll, which lay open. He placed his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land.

American Standard Version

and he had in his hand a little book open: and he set his right foot upon the sea, and his left upon the earth;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 10:2 vividly portrays a mighty angel, described in the preceding verse, holding a small, open scroll and demonstrating unparalleled dominion by placing one foot upon the sea and the other upon the earth. This scene serves as a pivotal interlude in John's apocalyptic vision, signaling a new phase of divine revelation and underscoring God's absolute sovereignty over all creation—both the chaotic forces of the sea and the inhabited dry land—as His ultimate purposes are about to be unveiled.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically positioned as an interlude between the cataclysmic events of the [sixth trumpet judgment](/revelation/9-13-21 "Revelation 9:13-21 - The Sixth Trumpet Judgment") and the eagerly anticipated [seventh trumpet](/revelation/11-15-19 "Revelation 11:15-19 - The Seventh Trumpet and God's Reign"). Similar to the pause found in [Revelation 7](/revelation/7 "Revelation 7 - The Sealing of the 144,000 and the Multitude"), this interlude offers a moment of respite from the unfolding judgments, providing crucial theological insight and preparing the reader for a deeper understanding of God's unfolding plan. The angel's appearance and authoritative stance introduce a shift in focus from sequential judgments to a specific, imminent revelation and a renewed call to prophetic witness.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient world, the sea often symbolized chaos, untamed forces, and the dwelling place of monstrous entities, contrasting with the ordered, inhabited land. For John's original audience, familiar with Old Testament imagery, God's dominion over the sea (e.g., [Psalm 89:9](/psalms/89-9 "Psalm 89:9 - God's Rule Over the Sea")) was a powerful testament to His absolute power. The act of placing feet on both sea and earth would immediately convey a universal claim of ownership and authority, echoing the imagery of conquering kings or divine beings establishing their dominion over all known realms. This gesture would have resonated deeply with a people living under Roman imperial rule, where emperors often claimed universal authority, but here, it is God's messenger asserting true, ultimate dominion.
* **Key Themes:** Revelation 10:2 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Revelation and biblical theology. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty**, powerfully conveyed by the angel's stance, which asserts God's ultimate control over all creation, both natural and human realms. This reinforces the truth that despite the chaos and suffering depicted in the judgments, God remains firmly in charge, orchestrating all events according to His perfect will, as declared in [Psalm 24:1](/psalms/24-1 "Psalm 24:1 - The Earth is the Lord's"). Another crucial theme is **Divine Revelation**. The "little book open" signifies that God's purposes, previously hidden or sealed (cf. [Revelation 5:1](/revelation/5-1 "Revelation 5:1 - The Sealed Scroll")), are now being unveiled. This points to the ongoing nature of God's communication with humanity and the progressive unfolding of His plan, particularly concerning the "mystery of God" mentioned later in [Revelation 10:7](/revelation/10-7 "Revelation 10:7 - The Mystery of God"). This scene also underscores the **Call to Prophetic Witness**, as John is subsequently commanded to take and eat the scroll, signifying his commission to further prophesy, a theme central to the book's purpose.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **little book (Greek, _bibliarídion'_):** From G974, a diminutive of _biblion_, meaning "a booklet" or "small scroll." This term distinguishes it from the larger, seven-sealed scroll in [Revelation 5](/revelation/5 "Revelation 5 - The Lamb and the Sealed Scroll"), suggesting its contents are more specific, perhaps pertaining to a particular phase of God's plan or a specific message to be delivered, rather than the entirety of divine destiny. Its diminutive size implies a focused, perhaps more immediate, revelation.
* **open (Greek, _anoígō'_):** From G455, meaning "to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications)." The state of the book being "open" is crucial. Unlike the sealed scroll of [Revelation 5](/revelation/5 "Revelation 5 - The Lamb and the Sealed Scroll"), which required the Lamb to open its seals, this scroll is already accessible. This signifies that its contents are revealed, ready to be read, understood, and enacted, emphasizing the imminence and clarity of the message it contains.
* **set (Greek, _títhēmi'_):** From G5087, meaning "to place (in the widest application, literally and figuratively; properly, in a passive or horizontal posture)." While the Strong's definition emphasizes a passive or horizontal posture, in this context, the angel's action of "setting" his feet implies a deliberate, authoritative, and firm placement. It conveys an act of establishing dominion and taking a resolute stand, signifying the angel's, and by extension God's, active assertion of control over the designated realms.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he had in his hand a little book open:"** This clause introduces the central object of this interlude. The angel, previously described as mighty and clothed with a cloud, now holds a small scroll that is already unrolled or unsealed. This "little book" (βιβλαρίδιον) is distinct from the seven-sealed scroll of destiny in [Revelation 5](/revelation/5 "Revelation 5 - The Lamb and the Sealed Scroll"), which only the Lamb was worthy to open. Its "open" state signifies that its contents are now accessible, revealed, and ready to be understood or enacted, indicating an imminent and specific divine message or set of events.
* **"and he set his right foot upon the sea,"** The angel's posture immediately conveys immense authority. Placing the right foot (traditionally associated with power, strength, and dominance) upon the sea is a profound symbolic act. The sea, in biblical and ancient thought, often represents chaos, the unruly nations, or even the abyss. By placing his foot upon it, the angel asserts God's absolute dominion over all chaotic forces and the vast, often turbulent, gentile world, bringing them under divine control.
* **"and [his] left [foot] on the earth,"** Completing the authoritative stance, the angel places his left foot upon the earth. The earth (γῆ) typically represents the inhabited dry land, the realm of humanity, and established kingdoms. This dual placement—right foot on sea, left foot on earth—symbolizes universal dominion. It proclaims God's ultimate sovereignty and ownership over every sphere of creation, encompassing both the wild, untamed elements and the structured, human-controlled world. The angel's stance is a visual declaration that God's authority extends to every corner and aspect of existence.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 10:2 is rich in **Symbolism**. The "little book open" symbolizes a specific, accessible divine revelation, distinct from the sealed mysteries of earlier chapters. Its openness signifies that God's purposes are no longer hidden but are now ready to be disclosed and acted upon. The angel's colossal stance, with one foot on the **sea** and the other on the **earth**, is a powerful symbol of **Universal Dominion**. The sea often represents chaos, the gentile nations, or unruly forces, while the earth represents the inhabited world and humanity. This posture visually communicates God's absolute sovereignty over all creation, both the natural elements and human affairs. The angel himself functions as a **Theophany** or **Angelophany**, a visible manifestation of God's presence or message, embodying divine power and authority. The entire scene acts as a **Dramatic Interlude**, pausing the sequence of trumpet judgments to introduce a new prophetic commission and emphasize the divine control underpinning all events. The description also employs **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human-like physical characteristics (feet, hand) and actions (holding, setting) to the angel to make his divine authority comprehensible to human understanding.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 10:2 powerfully reinforces the biblical truth of God's absolute and comprehensive sovereignty over all creation and history. The angel's authoritative stance, bridging both sea and land, serves as an undeniable visual declaration that no realm, no force, and no human endeavor lies outside of God's ultimate control. This divine dominion is not merely theoretical but active, as evidenced by the "open little book," which signifies that God's specific plans and mysteries are being actively revealed and brought to fruition. This interlude assures believers that even amidst the escalating judgments and global turmoil depicted in Revelation, God's purposes are unfolding precisely as He intends, leading to the ultimate establishment of His kingdom. It underscores that revelation is progressive, and God continuously unveils His will to His servants, preparing them for their role in His grand narrative.

* [Psalm 24:1](/psalms/24-1 "Psalm 24:1 - The Earth is the Lord's")
* [Daniel 12:4](/daniel/12-4 "Daniel 12:4 - The Sealed Book of Prophecy")
* [Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 10:2 offers profound spiritual nourishment and practical guidance for believers navigating a world that often feels chaotic and out of control. The angel's majestic posture, with one foot on the sea and the other on the earth, serves as a powerful visual reminder that God's sovereignty is absolute and encompasses every aspect of existence—from the unpredictable forces of nature to the complex affairs of human nations. This truth should instill immense confidence and peace, knowing that no matter how turbulent world events become, God's hand is firmly upon all things, guiding them according to His eternal purpose. The "open little book" further calls us to attentiveness and readiness. It signifies that God is continually revealing His will and His plans, not keeping them hidden, but making them accessible to those who seek Him. This encourages us to remain vigilant in studying His Word, discerning His movements in the world, and being prepared to participate in His unfolding story. In a world prone to anxiety and despair, this verse anchors our hope in a God who is not only sovereign but also actively revealing His purposes, inviting us to trust in His comprehensive plan and to respond with faithful obedience.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of the angel's feet on the sea and earth impact your understanding of God's sovereignty in your personal life and in global events?**
* **What does the "open little book" signify for your approach to God's revelation and your readiness to receive new insights from Him?**
* **In what ways might God be calling you to be more attentive to His unfolding purposes in the world today, similar to John's commission?**
* **How can the assurance of God's ultimate dominion, as depicted here, strengthen your faith amidst uncertainty or fear?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "little book" being "open" in Revelation 10:2?**

Answer: The "little book" (Greek: _bibliarídion_) being "open" is highly significant because it contrasts sharply with the seven-sealed scroll in [Revelation 5:1](/revelation/5-1 "Revelation 5:1 - The Sealed Scroll"), which only the Lamb was worthy to open. Its open state in [Revelation 10:2](/revelation/10-2 "Revelation 10:2 - The Angel with the Open Book") signifies that its contents are no longer hidden or mysterious but are now accessible, revealed, and ready to be understood or enacted. This implies an imminent and specific divine message or a new phase of God's prophetic plan that is about to unfold. It suggests a clarity and immediacy to the revelation, preparing John and the readers for a direct engagement with its contents, which are later revealed to be a call to prophesy (cf. [Revelation 10:9-11](/revelation/10-9-11 "Revelation 10:9-11 - John Eats the Scroll")).

**Why does the angel place one foot on the sea and one on the earth?**

Answer: The angel's colossal stance, with his right foot upon the sea and his left foot upon the earth, is a powerful symbolic gesture of **universal dominion and authority**. In ancient thought and biblical imagery, the sea often represented chaos, the unruly gentile nations, or the unknown, while the earth represented the inhabited dry land, the realm of humanity and established kingdoms. By placing a foot on each, the angel visually proclaims God's absolute sovereignty over all creation—both the wild, untamed forces and the ordered, human-controlled world. This posture asserts that no part of existence is outside of God's ultimate control and that His divine plan encompasses every sphere, preparing the way for the ultimate establishment of His kingdom over all things (cf. [Psalm 24:1](/psalms/24-1 "Psalm 24:1 - The Earth is the Lord's")).

**How does this interlude in Revelation 10 relate to the rest of the book's narrative?**

Answer: Revelation 10 serves as a crucial **interlude** between the [sixth trumpet judgment](/revelation/9-13-21 "Revelation 9:13-21 - The Sixth Trumpet Judgment") and the [seventh trumpet](/revelation/11-15-19 "Revelation 11:15-19 - The Seventh Trumpet and God's Reign"), similar to the interlude in [Revelation 7](/revelation/7 "Revelation 7 - The Sealing of the 144,000 and the Multitude"). These interludes provide a pause in the sequence of judgments to offer theological explanation, reinforce divine sovereignty, and prepare for subsequent events. Chapter 10 specifically introduces a new prophetic commission for John, symbolized by his eating of the "little book" (cf. [Revelation 10:9-11](/revelation/10-9-11 "Revelation 10:9-11 - John Eats the Scroll")). This prepares the reader for the detailed descriptions of the two witnesses and the measurement of the temple in [Revelation 11](/revelation/11 "Revelation 11 - The Two Witnesses and the Seventh Trumpet"), linking the angel's universal authority to the specific events and prophetic tasks that follow before the final trumpet sounds and the kingdom of God is declared.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 10:2, while depicting a mighty angel, ultimately points to the supreme authority and revelatory work of Jesus Christ. The angel's universal dominion, symbolized by his feet on sea and earth, foreshadows the ultimate and comprehensive authority given to Christ. As the resurrected Lord, Jesus declared, "[All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")" (Matthew 28:18). He is the true sovereign over all creation, both the chaotic forces and the inhabited world, having triumphed over sin and death. Furthermore, the "little book open" finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ as the supreme Revealer of God's mysteries. While the angel presents an open book, it is Christ, the [Lamb who was slain](/revelation/5-6-7 "Revelation 5:6-7 - The Lamb Takes the Scroll"), who alone was found worthy to open the seven-sealed scroll of destiny (Revelation 5). He is the embodiment of God's complete revelation, the [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), through whom all divine truth is communicated. The angel's commission to John to prophesy again (Revelation 10:11) is ultimately a call to bear witness to Christ, the one who holds the keys of death and Hades ([Revelation 1:18](/revelation/1-18 "Revelation 1:18 - Jesus Holds the Keys")). Thus, the scene in Revelation 10:2, with its powerful imagery of dominion and open revelation, serves as a profound testament to the unparalleled sovereignty and revelatory role of Jesus Christ, the Alpha and the Omega, who is [Lord of all](/acts/10-36 "Acts 10:36 - Jesus Christ is Lord of All").

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

Ezekiel 2:9

And when I looked, behold, an hand [was] sent unto me; and, lo, a roll of a book [was] therein;

Ezekiel 2:10

And he spread it before me; and it [was] written within and without: and [there was] written therein lamentations, and mourning, and woe.

Revelation 10:5

And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven,

Revelation 5:1

¶ And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.

Revelation 5:5

And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

Revelation 10:8

¶ And the voice which I heard from heaven spake unto me again, and said, Go [and] take the little book which is open in the hand of the angel which standeth upon the sea and upon the earth.

Revelation 10:10

And I took the little book out of the angel's hand, and ate it up; and it was in my mouth sweet as honey: and as soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter.