11:19 11:19

Revelation 12:1

12:2 12:2

Bible Versions

¶ And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:
And {G2532} there appeared {G3700} a great {G3173} wonder {G4592} in {G1722} heaven {G3772}; a woman {G1135} clothed {G4016} with the sun {G2246}, and {G2532} the moon {G4582} under {G5270} her {G846} feet {G4228}, and {G2532} upon {G1909} her {G846} head {G2776} a crown {G4735} of twelve {G1427} stars {G792}:
Now a great sign was seen in heaven — a woman clothed with the sun, under her feet the moon, and on her head a crown of twelve stars.
And a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed in the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head.
And a great sign was seen in heaven: a woman arrayed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars;

Revelation 12:1 introduces one of the most vivid and significant symbolic visions in the entire book, setting the stage for a cosmic drama that unfolds in the subsequent verses. This verse describes a "great wonder in heaven," presenting a mysterious woman adorned with celestial bodies, hinting at her profound identity and role in God's prophetic plan.

Context

Chapter 12 marks a pivotal shift in the book of Revelation, moving from the sequence of trumpets and visions of God's judgment to a deeper unveiling of the spiritual warfare behind earthly events. It introduces key symbolic figures—the woman, the male child, and the great red dragon—to illustrate the ongoing conflict between God's people and the forces of evil. This particular vision is a divine revelation presented as a sign, intended to convey profound truths through rich imagery rather than literal description.

Key Themes and Symbolism

  • The Woman's Identity: The woman is a central figure, and her identity has been a subject of much discussion among biblical scholars.
    • Israel: Many commentators interpret the woman as a representation of the nation of Israel, from whom the Messiah came. Her being "clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars" strongly echoes Joseph's dream in Genesis 37:9-10, where the sun, moon, and eleven stars bowed down to him, symbolizing his father, mother, and brothers (the twelve tribes). This interpretation positions Israel as the vehicle through which God's redemptive plan, culminating in Christ, is realized.
    • The Church: Some view the woman as the Church, the collective body of believers, who are "clothed" in Christ's righteousness and have authority over the world's temporal powers.
    • Mary: A less common interpretation, especially in Protestant traditions, suggests the woman is Mary, the mother of Jesus, aligning with the subsequent birth of the male child. However, the broader symbolism of the twelve stars and the ongoing conflict points to a larger corporate entity.
  • Celestial Attire: Her being "clothed with the sun" signifies divine glory, righteousness, and God's favor. The "moon under her feet" suggests dominion over earthly, temporal, or lesser powers, reflecting her exalted spiritual status. The "crown of twelve stars" further emphasizes royalty, authority, and a clear connection to either the twelve tribes of Israel or the twelve apostles of Christ, representing the foundational elements of God's covenant people.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "wonder" in Greek is semeion (σημεῖον), which means a "sign," "mark," or "portent." This emphasizes that the vision is not to be taken literally but as a symbolic representation of spiritual realities. It's a divinely given visual aid to help understand the profound spiritual conflict and God's ultimate victory. The use of "great" (megas) further underscores the immense significance of this sign in the unfolding narrative.

Practical Application

Revelation 12:1, while highly symbolic, offers crucial insights for believers today:

  • God's Sovereign Plan: It reminds us that God has a grand, overarching plan for history, which includes the nation of Israel, the coming of the Messiah, and the establishment of His kingdom.
  • Spiritual Realities: The "great wonder in heaven" highlights that there are significant spiritual forces at play behind the scenes of human history. Understanding this cosmic conflict helps us grasp the true nature of evil and God's protective hand over His people.
  • Hope in Adversity: Even amidst prophecies of tribulation and spiritual warfare, the imagery of the woman's divine adornment speaks to God's glory and protection over those who belong to Him. This vision ultimately leads to the triumph of God's kingdom and Christ's authority over all opposing forces, offering hope and reassurance to believers facing challenges.
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.

  • Luke 21:25

    And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;

  • Ephesians 5:32

    This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

  • Luke 21:11

    And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.

  • Isaiah 62:3

    Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the LORD, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God.

  • Isaiah 60:19

    The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory.

  • Isaiah 60:20

    Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended.

  • Mark 13:25

    And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken.
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