Revelation 11:13

KJV

And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand: and the remnant were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of heaven.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} the same {G1722}{G1565} hour {G5610} was there {G1096} a great {G3173} earthquake {G4578}, and {G2532} the tenth part {G1182} of the city {G4172} fell {G4098}, and {G2532} in {G1722} the earthquake {G4578} were slain {G615}{G3686} of men {G444} seven {G2033} thousand {G5505}: and {G2532} the remnant {G3062} were {G1096} affrighted {G1719}, and {G2532} gave {G1325} glory {G1391} to the God {G2316} of heaven {G3772}.

Complete Jewish Bible

In that hour there was a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city collapsed. Seven thousand people were killed in the earthquake, and the rest were awestruck and gave glory to the God of heaven.

Berean Standard Bible

And in that hour there was a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city collapsed. Seven thousand were killed in the quake, and the rest were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven.

American Standard Version

And in that hour there was a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell; and there were killed in the earthquake seven thousand persons: and the rest were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of heaven.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 11:13 vividly portrays a climactic moment of divine judgment immediately following the miraculous resurrection and ascension of the two witnesses. As a powerful earthquake strikes Jerusalem, a tenth of the city collapses, and seven thousand people perish. This catastrophic event instills terror in the survivors, compelling them to acknowledge the supreme power and authority of God, a significant shift from the widespread defiance seen elsewhere in the apocalyptic narrative.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the dramatic conclusion to the narrative segment concerning the two witnesses, which began in [Revelation 11:3](/revelation/11-3 "Revelation 11:3 - The Two Witnesses Prophesy"). Having completed their prophetic ministry, been slain by the beast, and then publicly resurrected and ascended into heaven (as described in [Revelation 11:7-12](/revelation/11-7-12 "Revelation 11:7-12 - Death, Resurrection, and Ascension of the Witnesses")), the earthquake and subsequent human response in [Revelation 11:13](/revelation/11-13 "Revelation 11:13 - Earthquake and Response") mark God's immediate vindication of His servants and a direct divine intervention. It precedes the sounding of the seventh trumpet in [Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Seventh Trumpet Sounds"), which announces the establishment of God's eternal kingdom, underscoring the escalating intensity of God's judgments as the end-time events unfold. The sequence emphasizes cause and effect: the witnesses' ascension directly precipitates this judgment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "city" mentioned is widely interpreted as Jerusalem, a city with profound historical and prophetic significance, central to both Old Testament prophecy and the unfolding events of Revelation. Its designation as the place where "their Lord was crucified" in [Revelation 11:8](/revelation/11-8 "Revelation 11:8 - The Great City") further solidifies this understanding. Earthquakes were recognized in the ancient world as powerful, often terrifying, natural phenomena, frequently associated with divine wrath or significant divine interventions (e.g., [Exodus 19:18](/exodus/19-18 "Exodus 19:18 - Mount Sinai Trembles") at Mount Sinai; [Matthew 27:51](/matthew/27-51 "Matthew 27:51 - Earthquake at the Crucifixion")). The specific number "seven thousand" is likely symbolic, representing a significant, divinely determined portion rather than a literal census, reflecting the biblical use of numbers to convey completeness or divine action. The response of "giving glory to the God of heaven" echoes Old Testament instances where pagan rulers or nations, after experiencing God's power, were compelled to acknowledge His supremacy, even if not truly converting (e.g., [Daniel 2:47](/daniel/2-47 "Daniel 2:47 - Nebuchadnezzar Praises God")).

* **Key Themes:** [Revelation 11:13](/revelation/11-13 "Revelation 11:13 - Earthquake and Response") powerfully reinforces several overarching themes within the Book of Revelation. Firstly, **Divine Judgment** is unequivocally displayed, demonstrating God's active involvement in human affairs and His righteous retribution against those who oppose His will and harm His servants. Secondly, the theme of **God's Sovereignty** is paramount; despite widespread rebellion and the apparent triumph of evil, God remains in absolute control, orchestrating events to fulfill His purposes. The earthquake is not random but a precise, timed act of God. Thirdly, the verse highlights the **Human Response to Divine Power**. While many in Revelation harden their hearts and blaspheme God even amidst judgment (as seen in [Revelation 9:20-21](/revelation/9-20-21 "Revelation 9:20-21 - Those Who Did Not Repent") and [Revelation 16:9](/revelation/16-9 "Revelation 16:9 - Men Blaspheme God")), here, a "remnant" is "affrighted" into acknowledging God's glory. This nuanced response suggests that even forced acknowledgment can be a precursor to, or at least a recognition of, divine authority, offering a glimmer of hope for some amidst the pervasive spiritual darkness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **affrighted (Greek, _émphobos'_):** From _en_ (in) and _phobos_ (fear), meaning "in fear" or "alarmed." This word describes a state of intense terror or dread. In the context of Revelation 11:13, it signifies that the survivors were not merely surprised or shocked, but utterly terrified by the magnitude and divine origin of the earthquake, leading to a compelled acknowledgment of God's power.
* **gave (Greek, _dídōmi'_):** A primary verb meaning "to give," "to bestow," or "to grant." While it can imply a willing act, its wide application allows for various nuances. Here, combined with "glory," it denotes the act of rendering or attributing glory to God. The preceding terror suggests this "giving" was not a spontaneous act of worship but a forced recognition, a compelled tribute to a power they could not deny or resist.
* **glory (Greek, _dóxa'_):** From the base of _dokéō_ (to seem, to think), meaning "glory" as something "very apparent." It encompasses dignity, honor, praise, and worship. In this verse, the "glory" given to the God of heaven is a public acknowledgment of His majesty, power, and supreme authority, compelled by the overwhelming display of His judgment. It signifies a recognition of who God is, even if it falls short of genuine repentance and saving faith.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the same hour was there a great earthquake":** This clause emphasizes the immediate and direct connection between the ascension of the two witnesses and the divine judgment. The phrase "the same hour" highlights the precise timing, indicating that the earthquake is not a random event but a direct, divinely orchestrated response to the world's rejection of God's messengers. The "great earthquake" signifies a powerful, destructive, and supernaturally induced seismic event, far beyond ordinary natural occurrences, designed to demonstrate God's overwhelming power.
* **"and the tenth part of the city fell":** This specifies the extent of the destruction. The "city" is widely understood as Jerusalem. The "tenth part" suggests a significant, yet not total, destruction. This partial judgment serves as a severe warning, demonstrating God's capacity for widespread devastation while leaving a remnant to witness and respond, indicating a measured, purposeful judgment rather than indiscriminate annihilation.
* **"and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand":** This details the human cost of the judgment. The number "seven thousand" is symbolic, often representing completeness or a divinely appointed number, signifying a substantial and precise loss of life. It underscores the severity of God's wrath and the direct consequence of opposing His divine will, highlighting that the judgment is not just structural but takes human lives.
* **"and the remnant were affrighted":** This describes the immediate emotional response of those who survived the earthquake. "Affrighted" (Greek: _émphobos_) conveys a deep, overwhelming fear. This terror is a crucial element, as it breaks through their previous defiance and indifference, opening them to the possibility of acknowledging God's power. It implies a profound psychological impact, a realization of their vulnerability before divine might.
* **"and gave glory to the God of heaven.":** This is the pivotal response. Compelled by terror, the survivors "gave glory" to God. This "giving glory" (Greek: _didōmi doxan_) is not necessarily a willing act of repentance or saving faith, but rather a forced acknowledgment of God's supreme power and authority, a recognition of His majesty as the "God of heaven," the sovereign ruler over all earthly affairs. It contrasts sharply with the blasphemy seen elsewhere in Revelation, offering a unique, albeit coerced, moment of divine recognition.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 11:13 employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. **Symbolism** is evident in the numbers "tenth part" and "seven thousand," which are not merely literal statistics but carry theological weight, indicating a divinely determined proportion and a significant, complete judgment. The "city" itself is symbolic, representing not only literal Jerusalem but also the rebellious world system. The earthquake functions as a powerful **Sign** or **Portent**, a dramatic physical manifestation of divine wrath and power, serving as a clear message from God. The phrase "gave glory to the God of heaven" demonstrates **Divine Irony** or **Paradox**, as those who previously defied God are now compelled by terror to acknowledge His majesty. This is not genuine worship but a forced, fear-induced recognition, highlighting the futility of human resistance against divine power. Furthermore, the event serves as a **Foreshadowing** of the ultimate, inescapable judgment that will compel all creation to acknowledge God's sovereignty, as prophesied in passages like [Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow").

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 11:13 profoundly illustrates God's unyielding commitment to justice and His absolute sovereignty over all creation. The earthquake and the resulting fear-induced acknowledgment of God's glory underscore that even in the midst of widespread rebellion and defiance, God remains actively engaged in human history, orchestrating events to fulfill His divine purposes. This forced recognition, while not necessarily repentance unto salvation, is a powerful testimony to God's undeniable power, demonstrating that His judgments are designed to elicit a response, whether it be genuine contrition or a reluctant, terror-stricken admission of His supremacy. It highlights that God will ultimately be glorified, even by those who initially resist Him.

* [Isaiah 2:19](/isaiah/2-19 "Isaiah 2:19 - Hiding from the Lord")
* [Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")
* [Psalm 76:7](/psalms/76-7 "Psalm 76:7 - God's Terrifying Presence")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 11:13 serves as a stark reminder that God's justice is inevitable and His power undeniable. For believers, this passage offers profound assurance that God is ultimately in control, even when the world seems to be spiraling into chaos and defiance. It reinforces the truth that He will vindicate His servants and His Word, and that His purposes will prevail regardless of human resistance. This should inspire confidence and steadfastness in our faith, knowing that our God is sovereign over all earthly powers and events. For those who have yet to acknowledge God, this verse is a sobering warning. It presents a choice: will we, like the "remnant," wait until overwhelming judgment compels us to acknowledge God out of fear, or will we respond now, willingly and in faith, to His invitations of grace and truth? The "glory" given under duress in Revelation 11:13 stands in stark contrast to the willing, joyful worship offered by those who truly repent and embrace God's salvation. It calls us to examine our own hearts and ensure our "giving glory" is born of love and devotion, not merely the terror of His righteous judgment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the "great earthquake" in this verse compare to other biblical accounts of divine judgment, and what does it reveal about God's character?**
* **What is the significance of the "remnant" being "affrighted" and "giving glory to the God of heaven" in contrast to those who blaspheme God elsewhere in Revelation?**
* **In what ways might we, in our own lives, be tempted to resist acknowledging God's sovereignty until compelled by difficult circumstances?**
* **How can the assurance of God's ultimate justice, as depicted in this verse, strengthen our faith and encourage us to live righteously today?**

### FAQ
**Is the "giving glory to the God of heaven" in Revelation 11:13 true repentance leading to salvation?**

Answer: While the phrase "gave glory to the God of heaven" might initially sound like genuine repentance, the context strongly suggests it is not necessarily saving faith, but rather a forced acknowledgment born out of terror. The Greek word for "affrighted" (_émphobos_) indicates a state of extreme fear. Unlike other instances in Revelation where people genuinely repent (e.g., [Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9-10 "Revelation 7:9-10 - The Great Multitude Worships")), here the acknowledgment is compelled by overwhelming divine judgment. It signifies a recognition of God's supreme power and authority, a concession to His undeniable existence and might, but not necessarily a turning from sin and a commitment to follow Christ. It's a profound shift from outright blasphemy, but it may fall short of the saving repentance called for in [Acts 3:19](/acts/3-19 "Acts 3:19 - Repent and BeConverted").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 11:13, with its depiction of a terror-induced acknowledgment of God's glory, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate, universal recognition of Christ's supreme authority. While the "remnant" in Jerusalem are compelled by an earthquake to give glory to the "God of heaven," the New Testament reveals that this ultimate glory belongs to Jesus Christ, the Son who fully reveals the Father. The day is coming when "every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). This future confession will encompass both willing worship from believers and a forced, undeniable acknowledgment from those who rejected Him, demonstrating that no one can ultimately stand against the Lamb of God. Just as the earthquake vindicated the two witnesses, Christ's resurrection and ascension ([Acts 1:9-11](/acts/1-9-11 "Acts 1:9-11 - Jesus Ascends to Heaven")) serve as the ultimate vindication of His divine identity and mission. The judgment in [Revelation 11:13](/revelation/11-13 "Revelation 11:13 - Earthquake and Response") is a glimpse of the final judgment where Christ, the righteous Judge ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Judges No One, But Has Given All Judgment to the Son")), will receive all glory and honor, whether willingly given or compelled by the overwhelming display of His power and majesty.

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 14:7

Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

Revelation 6:12

And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood;

Joshua 7:19

And Joshua said unto Achan, My son, give, I pray thee, glory to the LORD God of Israel, and make confession unto him; and tell me now what thou hast done; hide [it] not from me.

Revelation 11:11

And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.

Revelation 16:18

And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, [and] so great.

Revelation 16:19

And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath.

Revelation 11:19

And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.