Revelation 21:23

And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb [is] the light thereof.

And {G2532} the city {G4172} had {G2192} no {G3756} need {G5532} of the sun {G2246}, neither {G3761} of the moon {G4582}, to {G2443} shine {G5316} in {G1722} it {G846}: for {G1063} the glory {G1391} of God {G2316} did lighten {G5461} it {G846}, and {G2532} the Lamb {G721} is the light {G3088} thereof {G846}.

The city has no need for the sun or the moon to shine on it, because God’s Sh’khinah gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb.

And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, because the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its lamp.

And the city hath no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine upon it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the lamp thereof is the Lamb.

Commentary

Revelation 21:23 describes a key characteristic of the New Jerusalem in the new creation: its source of light. Unlike the present world which relies on the sun and moon, this city is illuminated directly by the divine presence.

Context

This verse is part of John's vision of the new heaven and new earth, specifically focusing on the description of the New Jerusalem descending from God (see Revelation 21:2). The preceding verses detail the city's structure, materials, and gates. Verse 23 transitions to describing the atmosphere and illumination within this glorious city, contrasting it sharply with the conditions of the old creation that has passed away.

Key Themes

  • Divine Illumination: The verse highlights the complete absence of natural light sources (sun and moon). This signifies a state where God's presence is so pervasive and powerful that external, created light is unnecessary.
  • The Glory of God as Light: The primary source of light is stated to be "the glory of God." This refers to God's manifest presence and radiant splendor, which will fully illuminate the new creation. This fulfills prophetic visions of God's glory residing among His people (compare Isaiah 60:19-20).
  • The Lamb is the Light: Jesus Christ, depicted as the Lamb, is also identified as the light of the city. This underscores His central role in the new creation and His identity as the light of the world, now fully realized in this eternal state.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "glory" is doxa (δόξα), which often denotes the manifest presence, radiance, and majesty of God. "Light" is phos (φῶς), a term used throughout Scripture not only for physical illumination but also for truth, life, and God's presence, in contrast to darkness (ignorance, sin, death).

Reflection and Application

This verse offers a powerful image of the believer's eternal future. Living in the light of God's glory and the Lamb means a state of perfect communion, complete safety, and absolute clarity, where darkness (sin, sorrow, confusion) has no place. It assures us that God's presence will be our ultimate source of everything, including light, life, and joy, in the world to come. It encourages us to live in anticipation of this glorious reality and to walk in the light of Christ even now (see 1 John 1:7).

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Isaiah 60:19 (20 votes)

    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 (20 votes)

    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.

  • Revelation 22:5 (17 votes)

    And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

  • Revelation 21:11 (10 votes)

    Having the glory of God: and her light [was] like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;

  • John 1:9 (9 votes)

    [That] was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

  • Isaiah 24:23 (8 votes)

    Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall reign in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients gloriously.

  • Revelation 18:1 (5 votes)

    ¶ And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory.