Revelation 2:17

KJV

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth [it].

KJV (with Strong's)

He that hath {G2192} an ear {G3775}, let him hear {G191} what {G5101} the Spirit {G4151} saith {G3004} unto the churches {G1577}; To him {G846} that overcometh {G3528} will I give {G1325} to eat {G5315} of {G575} the hidden {G2928} manna {G3131}, and {G2532} will give {G1325} him {G846} a white {G3022} stone {G5586}, and {G2532} in {G1909} the stone {G5586} a new {G2537} name {G3686} written {G1125}, which {G3739} no man {G3762} knoweth {G1097} saving {G1508} he that receiveth {G2983} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

Those who have ears, let them hear what the Spirit is saying to the Messianic communities. To him winning the victory I will give some of the hidden man. I will also give him a white stone, on which is written a new name that nobody knows except the one receiving it.”’

Berean Standard Bible

He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who overcomes, I will give the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone inscribed with a new name, known only to the one who receives it.

American Standard Version

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches. To him that overcometh, to him will I give of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and upon the stone a new name written, which no one knoweth but he that receiveth it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 2:17 concludes the message to the church in Pergamum with a profound series of promises to those who overcome the spiritual challenges of compromise and false teaching. It begins with the familiar call to spiritual discernment, urging believers to heed the Spirit's message to the churches. The core of the verse then unfolds three specific, intimate rewards for the faithful: the gift of hidden manna, symbolizing unique spiritual sustenance; a white stone, representing divine vindication and acceptance; and inscribed upon that stone, a new name known only to the recipient, signifying a deeply personal and intimate identity bestowed by God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the concluding promise in the third of seven letters dictated by the resurrected Christ to the churches in Asia Minor, delivered through the Apostle John. Each letter follows a similar structure, addressing a specific church, commending their faithfulness (if any), rebuking their failures, and offering a promise to "him who overcomes." The message to Pergamum, specifically, addresses the church's perilous existence in "Satan's seat" ([Revelation 2:13](/revelation/2-13 "Revelation 2:13 - Pergamum, Where Satan's Seat Is")), a city steeped in pagan idolatry and imperial cult worship. Despite some faithful members, the church is rebuked for tolerating those who hold to the "teaching of Balaam" and the "teaching of the Nicolaitans," which involved compromise with idolatrous practices and sexual immorality. The promises in [Revelation 2:17](/revelation/2-17 "Revelation 2:17 - Promises to the Overcomer") serve as a powerful counter-incentive to the temptations of compromise, offering divine intimacy and eternal provision far superior to any worldly gain.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Pergamum was a prominent city, serving as the capital of the Roman province of Asia. It was a center of various pagan cults, including the worship of Zeus, Athena, Dionysus, and Asclepius (god of healing, symbolized by a serpent, leading to the city's reputation as "Satan's seat"). Crucially, Pergamum was a hub for the imperial cult, where emperor worship was mandatory. Refusal to participate often led to persecution, as exemplified by Antipas, Christ's "faithful martyr" ([Revelation 2:13](/revelation/2-13 "Revelation 2:13 - Antipas, Christ's Faithful Martyr")). In this environment, the pressure to compromise with pagan practices or the imperial cult was immense. The "hidden manna" alludes to the manna God provided to Israel in the wilderness ([Exodus 16](/exodus/16 "Exodus 16 - Manna in the Wilderness")), and specifically the pot of manna kept in the Ark of the Covenant ([Hebrews 9:4](/hebrews/9-4 "Hebrews 9:4 - The Ark and its Contents")). The "white stone" (Greek: _psēphos leukē_) carries multiple cultural connotations: it could be a voting pebble for acquittal in a court of law, a ticket for admission to a special banquet or assembly, or a token of honor and friendship. The "new name" reflects ancient Near Eastern practices where a new name signified a new identity, status, or intimate relationship, often bestowed by a king or deity.

* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme in [Revelation 2:17](/revelation/2-17 "Revelation 2:17 - Promises to the Overcomer") is **Overcoming** (Greek: _nikaō_), which is central to the entire book of Revelation, culminating in the victory of Christ and His followers over evil. This overcoming is not merely survival but an active triumph over spiritual and worldly pressures. Another key theme is **Divine Provision and Sustenance**, symbolized by the hidden manna, which contrasts sharply with the defiled food associated with idolatry. It points to Christ as the true source of life and nourishment, echoing themes found in [John 6](/john/6 "John 6 - Jesus, the Bread of Life"). The **New Identity and Intimacy** conveyed by the white stone and new name speaks to God's personal knowledge and acceptance of His faithful ones, offering a unique relationship that transcends earthly understanding and is a stark contrast to the loss of identity often associated with compromising one's faith in a pagan society. Finally, the repeated phrase "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches" emphasizes the theme of **Spiritual Discernment and Attentiveness** to God's voice, which is crucial for navigating the deceptions and challenges of the world.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **overcometh (Greek, _nikáō_):** This verb signifies "to subdue (literally or figuratively)," "to conquer," "to prevail," or "to get the victory." In the context of Revelation, it describes the enduring faithfulness of believers who, by the power of Christ, stand firm against persecution, false teaching, and the temptations of the world. It is a dynamic and active triumph, not passive endurance.
* **hidden (Greek, _krýptō_):** Meaning "to conceal (properly, by covering)," or "to keep secret," this word emphasizes the exclusive and intimate nature of the manna promised. It is not something publicly available or accessible to the world but a special, reserved provision for those who have proven their loyalty and overcome.
* **white stone (Greek, _leukós_ and _psēphos_):** The word _leukós_ means "white," signifying purity, victory, or joy. The word _psēphos_ refers to "a pebble" used as a counter or ballot, implying a verdict (of acquittal) or a ticket (of admission). Combined, "white stone" here symbolizes divine approval, vindication from accusations, and privileged access or acceptance into God's presence, a mark of honor for the overcomer.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches;":** This is a recurring refrain in each of the seven letters, serving as a solemn call to spiritual attentiveness and discernment. It implies that the message is not merely for the specific church addressed but for all believers across time, urging them to listen deeply to the Holy Spirit's communication, especially regarding the challenges of compromise and the rewards of faithfulness.
* **"To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, ":** This clause presents the first promise to the victorious believer. The "hidden manna" symbolizes a unique, spiritual sustenance provided directly by Christ. Unlike the physical manna given to Israel in the wilderness, which sustained them physically, this "hidden" spiritual manna represents the profound, life-giving nourishment found in Christ Himself, the true "Bread of Life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")). Its "hidden" nature suggests an exclusive, intimate provision reserved for those who persevere in faith, inaccessible to the world.
* **"and will give him a white stone, ":** The second promise is a "white stone." Drawing on ancient customs, this stone signifies divine acquittal, vindication, and acceptance. In a context where believers faced accusations and persecution, this promise assures them of God's ultimate approval and a place of honor and privilege in His presence, a mark of their justified status and belonging.
* **"and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth [it].":** The third and most personal promise is a "new name" inscribed on the white stone, known only to the recipient and God. This signifies a deeply intimate, unique, and personal identity bestowed by God upon the overcomer. It speaks of a renewed relationship and destiny, reflecting a profound level of divine recognition, acceptance, and belonging that transcends earthly understanding and is a testament to the unique bond formed through faithful perseverance.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 2:17 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message. **Symbolism** is paramount, with the "hidden manna," "white stone," and "new name" each carrying rich layers of meaning derived from Old Testament allusions and Greco-Roman cultural practices. The "hidden manna" functions as a **metaphor** for spiritual nourishment and intimate communion with Christ, contrasting with the physical manna and the defiled food of idolatry. The "white stone" is symbolic of divine favor, vindication, and privileged access. The "new name" symbolizes a transformed identity and a unique, intimate relationship with God. The verse also utilizes **allusion**, referencing the manna in the wilderness and the pot kept in the Ark of the Covenant, linking the New Testament promise to Old Testament divine provision. The repeated phrase "He that hath an ear, let him hear" acts as a **refrain**, emphasizing the importance of spiritual perception and drawing attention to the profound significance of the message for all who would listen.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 2:17 profoundly articulates God's faithfulness to those who remain steadfast amidst spiritual warfare and societal pressure. The promises of hidden manna, a white stone, and a new name speak to the deepest longings of the human spirit: for sustenance that truly satisfies, for vindication and acceptance, and for a unique, intimate identity known only to God. The "hidden manna" points to Christ as the ultimate spiritual nourishment, a provision far superior to any worldly offering or compromise. The "white stone" assures believers of their divine acquittal and privileged status in God's kingdom, a stark contrast to the condemnation and marginalization they might experience in the world. The "new name" signifies a personal and unique relationship with God, a profound intimacy that transcends human comprehension, affirming their secure and cherished place in His eternal family. These promises underscore the eschatological hope and the personal nature of God's reward for perseverance.

* [John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")
* [Revelation 3:12](/revelation/3-12 "Revelation 3:12 - New Name in the New Jerusalem")
* [1 John 5:4-5](/1_john/5-4-5 "1 John 5:4-5 - Faith Overcomes the World")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 2:17 serves as a powerful call to spiritual vigilance and unwavering faithfulness in a world that constantly tempts us to compromise our convictions. The opening exhortation, "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches," reminds us of the crucial need for active spiritual discernment. In an age saturated with distractions and competing narratives, cultivating a sensitive ear to the Holy Spirit's voice is paramount for navigating truth from deception and standing firm against the subtle allure of worldly compromise. The promise to the "overcomer" challenges us to examine areas in our own lives where we might be tempted to dilute our faith for comfort, acceptance, or worldly gain. It assures us that true spiritual sustenance comes only from Christ, a "hidden manna" that satisfies far more deeply than any fleeting pleasure or earthly provision. Furthermore, the white stone and new name offer profound comfort, reminding us that our ultimate vindication, acceptance, and identity are found not in human approval or societal status, but in our intimate and unique relationship with God, a relationship forged and deepened through faithful perseverance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How am I actively cultivating a "listening ear" to what the Spirit is saying to me and to the church today?**
* **In what specific areas of my life am I being called to "overcome" compromise, apathy, or worldly pressures?**
* **How does the promise of "hidden manna" speak to my deepest spiritual hungers and dissatisfactions with worldly solutions?**
* **What does it mean to me personally to receive a "white stone" of divine approval and a "new name" known only to God and myself?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "hidden manna"?**

Answer: The "hidden manna" symbolizes a unique, spiritual sustenance provided by Christ to His faithful followers. It alludes to the manna God provided to Israel in the wilderness ([Exodus 16](/exodus/16 "Exodus 16 - Manna in the Wilderness")) and specifically to the pot of manna that was kept within the Ark of the Covenant, hidden from public view ([Hebrews 9:4](/hebrews/9-4 "Hebrews 9:4 - The Ark's Contents")). Theologically, it points to Jesus Christ Himself as the true "Bread of Life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")), who offers eternal life and spiritual nourishment that the world cannot provide or understand. Its "hidden" nature emphasizes its exclusive and intimate character, reserved for those who overcome and remain in close communion with Him.

**What does the "white stone" symbolize?**

Answer: The "white stone" (Greek: _psēphos leukē_) carries multiple symbolic meanings from the ancient world, all of which resonate with the promise to the overcomer. It could represent: 1) A verdict of acquittal in a court of law, signifying divine vindication and freedom from condemnation. 2) A ticket or token for admission to a special feast, assembly, or privileged event, symbolizing acceptance into God's eternal presence and participation in the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. 3) A mark of honor, distinction, or friendship, indicating God's personal approval and favor upon the faithful. In essence, it signifies divine affirmation, acceptance, and a privileged status in God's kingdom.

**Why is the "new name" known only to the recipient?**

Answer: The "new name" known only to the recipient and God signifies a deeply personal, unique, and intimate identity bestowed by God upon the overcomer. In biblical thought, a new name often indicates a new status, character, or destiny (e.g., Abram to Abraham, Jacob to Israel). The fact that this name is known only to God and the individual recipient underscores the profound intimacy of the relationship between the faithful believer and their Creator. It speaks of a level of divine recognition and belonging that transcends human understanding or public acknowledgment, reflecting a unique and cherished bond that is personally known and affirmed by God. It assures the believer of their secure and unique place in God's eternal family.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 2:17 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the quintessential overcomer, and through Him, in the life of every believer. Christ Himself declared, "[I have overcome the world](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World")" ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World")), and it is His victory that empowers believers to overcome the spiritual battles they face. The "hidden manna" is fully realized in Christ, who proclaimed, "[I am the bread of life](/john/6-48 "John 6:48 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")" and "[the living bread that came down from heaven](/john/6-51 "John 6:51 - Jesus, the Living Bread")" ([John 6:48, 51](/john/6-48-51 "John 6:48-51 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")). He is the spiritual sustenance that satisfies the deepest longings of the soul, offering eternal life and intimate communion that is hidden from the world but revealed to those who believe. The "white stone" represents the divine acquittal and acceptance that believers receive through Christ's atoning sacrifice. [He is our righteousness](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Righteousness"), and through faith in Him, we are declared righteous before God ([Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Justification by Faith")). Finally, the "new name" points to the new identity and profound intimacy believers share with Christ. [We are called children of God](/1_john/3-1 "1 John 3:1 - Children of God") ([1 John 3:1](/1_john/3-1 "1 John 3:1 - Children of God")), and our very lives are "[hidden with Christ in God](/colossians/3-3 "Colossians 3:3 - Hidden Life in Christ")" ([Colossians 3:3](/colossians/3-3 "Colossians 3:3 - Hidden Life in Christ")). This new name signifies our unique belonging to Him, a personal relationship known and cherished by the One who "[calls His own sheep by name](/john/10-3 "John 10:3 - Jesus Calls His Sheep by Name")" ([John 10:3](/john/10-3 "John 10:3 - Jesus Calls His Sheep by Name")). Thus, every promise in Revelation 2:17 is a promise of deeper union with Christ, secured by His finished work on the cross and empowered by His indwelling Spirit.

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

Isaiah 62:2

And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory: and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the LORD shall name.

Isaiah 65:15

And ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen: for the Lord GOD shall slay thee, and call his servants by another name:

Revelation 19:12

His eyes [were] as a flame of fire, and on his head [were] many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.

Revelation 19:13

And he [was] clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.

Revelation 3:12

Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, [which is] new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and [I will write upon him] my new name.

Revelation 3:13

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Revelation 2:7

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.