Revelation 11:1

KJV

¶ And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} there was given {G1325} me {G3427} a reed {G2563} like {G3664} unto a rod {G4464}: and {G2532} the angel {G32} stood {G2476}, saying {G3004}, Rise {G1453}, and {G2532} measure {G3354} the temple {G3485} of God {G2316}, and {G2532} the altar {G2379}, and {G2532} them that worship {G4352} therein {G1722}{G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I was given a measuring rod like a stick and told, “Get up, and measure the Temple of God and the altar, and count how many people are worshipping there!

Berean Standard Bible

Then I was given a measuring rod like a staff and was told, “Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, and count the number of worshipers there.

American Standard Version

And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and one said, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 11:1 marks a pivotal moment in John's apocalyptic vision, introducing a divine mandate to measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who worship within. This symbolic act, initiated by an angel and executed by John with a measuring reed, signifies God's sovereign distinction, preservation, and ownership of His faithful people and sacred space amidst impending global tribulation. It underscores that even in times of chaos and judgment, God maintains meticulous control, identifying and protecting those who truly belong to Him.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the dramatic interlude of the mighty angel and the little scroll in [Revelation 10](/revelation/10 "Revelation 10 - The Mighty Angel and the Little Scroll"), where John is commanded to prophesy again about many peoples, nations, tongues, and kings. Specifically, it succeeds the declaration of the seventh trumpet's imminent sounding in [Revelation 10:7](/revelation/10-7 "Revelation 10:7 - The Mystery of God Finished"), which heralds the completion of God's mystery. The transition to measuring the temple in [Revelation 11:1](/revelation/11-1 "Revelation 11:1 - Measuring the Temple") serves as a crucial bridge, shifting focus from the general pronouncements of judgment to a specific, localized scene involving God's people and their sanctuary, setting the stage for the narrative of the two witnesses and the fate of Jerusalem in [Revelation 11:3-13](/revelation/11-3-13 "Revelation 11:3-13 - The Two Witnesses"). This act of measurement precedes the intense period of gentile trampling of the outer court, highlighting a divine separation between what is preserved and what is subjected to judgment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The act of measuring held significant meaning in ancient Near Eastern cultures, often signifying ownership, dedication, preparation for construction, or demarcation for preservation or judgment. Temples, as the focal points of religious life, were meticulously built and maintained according to divine specifications (e.g., the tabernacle and Solomon's temple). In the Greco-Roman world, measuring instruments like reeds or rods were common tools for surveyors and builders. For a Jewish audience, the concept of a temple was deeply ingrained, representing God's dwelling place and the center of worship. The distinction between the "naos" (inner sanctuary) and the "hieron" (broader temple complex) was well understood, with the "naos" signifying the most sacred space where God's presence was believed to reside. This cultural understanding informs the symbolic weight of John's vision, suggesting a divine act of assessment and setting apart.

* **Key Themes:** The command to measure in [Revelation 11:1](/revelation/11-1 "Revelation 11:1 - Measuring the Temple") contributes to several overarching themes in Revelation. Firstly, it powerfully emphasizes **Divine Preservation and Protection**. Just as God marked His people for protection in [Revelation 7:3-4](/revelation/7-3-4 "Revelation 7:3-4 - Sealing of God's Servants"), this measurement signifies a divine setting apart of what is sacred and precious to God, ensuring its security even amidst the tribulation. This echoes earlier prophetic visions like [Ezekiel's detailed measurement of the new temple](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel 40 - The Vision of the New Temple") and [Zechariah's vision of measuring Jerusalem](/zechariah/2-2 "Zechariah 2:2 - Measuring Jerusalem"), where measurement implies divine ownership and future restoration. Secondly, the measurement of "them that worship therein" highlights the **Identification of True Worshippers**. It underscores God's intimate knowledge of His faithful, distinguishing them from those who merely occupy religious space. This theme of divine discernment is crucial throughout Revelation, culminating in the separation of the righteous from the wicked. Finally, the meticulous nature of the measurement reinforces **God's Sovereignty and Control**. Despite the escalating judgments and chaotic events described in the preceding chapters, [Revelation 11:1](/revelation/11-1 "Revelation 11:1 - Measuring the Temple") asserts that God's plan is precise, intentional, and unfolding according to His perfect will, demonstrating that nothing occurs outside of His divine oversight.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **given (Greek, _dídōmi'_):** This verb signifies a divine bestowal or authorization. The passive voice ("there was given me") emphasizes that John is not acting on his own initiative but is receiving an instrument and a command from a higher authority, likely God through the angel. This highlights the divine origin and authoritative nature of the subsequent action.
* **measure (Greek, _metréō'_):** This term means to ascertain size by a fixed standard, to admeasure, or to estimate. In this context, it implies a precise, intentional divine action of assessment and demarcation. It is not a casual observation but a formal act of inventory, evaluation, and setting apart, often with implications for either preservation or judgment.
* **temple (Greek, _naós'_):** Crucially, this word refers specifically to the inner sanctuary or the holy place itself, where God's presence dwells, as opposed to the broader temple complex or precincts (_hieron_). This distinction is vital for interpretation, suggesting that the measurement is focused on the most sacred, spiritual essence of God's dwelling and, by extension, His true people.
* **worship (Greek, _proskynéō'_):** This verb describes the act of prostrating oneself in homage, doing reverence, or adoring. It implies a deep, reverent posture of submission and adoration towards a divine being. The measurement of "them that worship therein" emphasizes that God is concerned with the genuine, heartfelt devotion of His people, not merely their physical presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And there was given me a reed like unto a rod":** This opening phrase establishes the divine origin of the instrument and the authority behind John's subsequent action. The "reed" (_kálamos_) is a slender stalk, often used as a measuring stick, while "rod" (_rhábdos_) can signify authority or a scepter. The comparison "like unto a rod" suggests not just a measuring tool but one endowed with divine authority for its purpose.
* **"and the angel stood, saying":** An angel, a divine messenger, is present and gives the direct command to John. This reinforces the divine imperative and the seriousness of the task. The angel's standing posture might denote readiness for action or a position of authority in delivering God's message.
* **"Rise, and measure the temple of God":** John is commanded to "rise," indicating a call to action from a state of rest or prostration, preparing him for the significant task. The primary object of measurement is "the temple of God," specifically the inner sanctuary (_naós_), signifying God's most sacred dwelling place. This implies a divine assessment and demarcation of what belongs exclusively to God.
* **"and the altar":** The altar, likely the altar of incense (within the _naós_) or the altar of burnt offering (in the court), is also to be measured. The altar is central to worship, representing sacrifice and communion with God. Its inclusion in the measurement further emphasizes the sanctity and divine ownership of the means of worship.
* **"and them that worship therein":** This is a critical component of the command, extending the measurement beyond physical structures to include the people. It signifies that God's concern is not merely with a building but with the genuine worshippers who inhabit it. This implies a divine "census" or identification of those who truly belong to God and are marked for His protection and preservation, distinguishing them from those who are not.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 11:1 employs several significant **literary devices**. **Symbolism** is paramount, as the "reed like unto a rod" is not merely a physical tool but a symbol of divine authority and a standard of measurement for God's purposes. The "temple," "altar," and "them that worship therein" are also highly symbolic. While they can have literal interpretations, they primarily represent God's true dwelling place and His faithful people, particularly in the context of the New Covenant. The act of **measurement** itself is symbolic, signifying divine ownership, preservation, and discernment. It implies that what is measured is set apart, accounted for, and protected, contrasting with the unmeasured outer court that is given over to the Gentiles. The passage also utilizes **personification** through the angel, who stands and speaks, acting as a direct conveyer of God's will to John. The entire scene is presented as a **prophetic vision**, a common literary form in apocalyptic literature, where symbolic actions and figures convey profound theological truths about future events and God's ultimate plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 11:1 profoundly underscores God's meticulous care and sovereign distinction of His own, even amidst the escalating judgments of the tribulation. The act of measuring signifies divine ownership and protection, indicating that God knows precisely who belongs to Him and what sacred spaces are under His direct oversight. This is not a random act but a deliberate demarcation, separating the preserved from the profane, the true worshippers from those who are merely present. It assures believers that their spiritual identity and security in God are not subject to the world's chaos, but are divinely recognized and safeguarded. This divine census highlights God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people, ensuring that a remnant will endure and be preserved for His ultimate purposes.

* [Ezekiel 40:3](/ezekiel/40-3 "Ezekiel 40:3 - Measuring the Temple") – Ezekiel's vision of the detailed measurement of the temple, signifying its divine design and future restoration.
* [Zechariah 2:1-5](/zechariah/2-1-5 "Zechariah 2:1-5 - Measuring Jerusalem for Protection") – Zechariah sees a man with a measuring line, but God declares He will be a wall of fire around Jerusalem, signifying divine protection without human measurement.
* [Revelation 7:3-4](/revelation/7-3-4 "Revelation 7:3-4 - Sealing of God's Servants") – God's servants are sealed on their foreheads, marking them for protection from divine judgment, paralleling the concept of being "measured" or set apart.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 11:1 offers profound assurance and a call to introspection for believers today. In a world often characterized by uncertainty, chaos, and a sense of impending doom, this verse reminds us that God remains meticulously sovereign and active. The act of measuring the temple and its worshippers signifies that God knows precisely who His true people are and that they are under His divine protection, even when the world around them faces tribulation. This should instill a deep sense of security and peace, knowing that our spiritual standing before God, defined by genuine worship and faithfulness, is what truly matters and is what God recognizes and preserves. It challenges us to examine our own hearts: are we among "them that worship therein" in spirit and truth, or are we merely physically present? Our focus should be on cultivating authentic devotion and living lives that reflect our allegiance to Christ, trusting that God's watchful eye is upon His faithful, preserving them for eternity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of God "measuring" His temple and worshippers bring comfort or challenge to your faith?**
* **In what ways do you believe God "measures" or discerns true worship today?**
* **What does it mean for you to be among "them that worship therein" in a genuine and authentic way?**
* **How can the assurance of God's preservation of His faithful impact your response to present-day uncertainties or challenges?**

### FAQ
**What does the "temple" in Revelation 11:1 represent?**

Answer: The "temple" (Greek: _naós_) in [Revelation 11:1](/revelation/11-1 "Revelation 11:1 - Measuring the Temple") is a subject of significant interpretive debate among scholars. Some interpret it literally as a rebuilt Jewish temple in Jerusalem during the end times, suggesting a future restoration of physical temple worship. Others view it symbolically, representing the spiritual temple of God, which is the Church—the community of believers (as seen in [1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - You are God's Temple") and [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built on the Foundation of Apostles and Prophets")). Given the highly symbolic nature of Revelation, and the specific use of _naós_ (inner sanctuary) rather than _hieron_ (the broader temple complex), the symbolic interpretation of God's true people, the Church, is often favored. The measurement of "them that worship therein" further supports this, emphasizing the people rather than just the physical structure.

**Why is the act of "measuring" significant in this context?**

Answer: The act of "measuring" in [Revelation 11:1](/revelation/11-1 "Revelation 11:1 - Measuring the Temple") is highly significant and carries multiple layers of meaning. Biblically, measuring often signifies divine ownership, demarcation, and preservation. It implies that what is measured is set apart by God for His specific purposes, often for protection or for a future rebuilding. In this apocalyptic context, it suggests that despite the impending tribulation and the trampling of the outer court by Gentiles ([Revelation 11:2](/revelation/11-2 "Revelation 11:2 - The Outer Court Trampled")), God meticulously identifies and safeguards His true spiritual temple and His faithful worshippers. It's an act of divine census and discernment, ensuring that God's chosen ones are recognized and preserved through the judgments.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 11:1, with its vision of measuring the temple and its worshippers, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant reality. While the Old Testament temple was a physical structure where God's presence dwelt, the New Testament reveals that believers themselves are now the [temple of the Holy Spirit](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit") and are [built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built on the Foundation of Apostles and Prophets"). Christ Himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," referring to [the temple of His body](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Speaks of His Body as the Temple"). Thus, the measurement in Revelation can be understood as God's divine assessment and preservation of those who are "in Christ"—the true spiritual temple. Jesus, as our [Great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), continually intercedes for His people at the heavenly altar ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - He Always Lives to Intercede")). The measurement of "them that worship therein" points to Christ's intimate knowledge of His own, as He is the [Good Shepherd who knows His sheep](/john/10-14 "John 10:14 - The Good Shepherd Knows His Sheep") and whose [foundation stands firm, having this seal: "The Lord knows those who are His"](/2_timothy/2-19 "2 Timothy 2:19 - The Lord Knows Those Who Are His"). Ultimately, the preservation promised in Revelation 11:1 is secured by Christ's finished work on the cross, His resurrection, and His ongoing intercession, which guarantees the eternal security of all who truly worship God through Him.

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

Revelation 21:15

And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof.

Ezekiel 42:15

¶ Now when he had made an end of measuring the inner house, he brought me forth toward the gate whose prospect [is] toward the east, and measured it round about.

Ezekiel 42:20

He measured it by the four sides: it had a wall round about, five hundred [reeds] long, and five hundred broad, to make a separation between the sanctuary and the profane place.

Zechariah 2:1

¶ I lifted up mine eyes again, and looked, and behold a man with a measuring line in his hand.

Zechariah 2:2

Then said I, Whither goest thou? And he said unto me, To measure Jerusalem, to see what [is] the breadth thereof, and what [is] the length thereof.

Ezekiel 40:1

¶ In the five and twentieth year of our captivity, in the beginning of the year, in the tenth [day] of the month, in the fourteenth year after that the city was smitten, in the selfsame day the hand of the LORD was upon me, and brought me thither.

Ezekiel 40:48

And he brought me to the porch of the house, and measured [each] post of the porch, five cubits on this side, and five cubits on that side: and the breadth of the gate [was] three cubits on this side, and three cubits on that side.