Revelation 22:1

ΒΆ And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.

And {G2532} he shewed {G1166} me {G3427} a pure {G2513} river {G4215} of water {G5204} of life {G2222}, clear {G2986} as {G5613} crystal {G2930}, proceeding {G1607} out of {G1537} the throne {G2362} of God {G2316} and {G2532} of the Lamb {G721}.

Next the angel showed me the river of the water of life, sparkling like crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb.

Then the angel showed me a river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb

And he showed me a river of water of life, bright as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb,

Commentary

Revelation 22:1 opens the final chapter of this prophetic book, presenting a breathtaking vision of the eternal state of God's people in the New Jerusalem. It immediately follows the depiction of the new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:1) and the absence of a physical temple, as God and the Lamb themselves are its light and glory (Revelation 21:23). This verse paints a vivid picture of divine provision and life in God's perfect dwelling place, a stark contrast to the cursed earth and the limitations of sin. It echoes the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:10) but portrays an even greater, unblemished reality, where humanity lives in direct, unhindered communion with God.

Key Themes

  • The River of Life: This central image symbolizes abundant, eternal spiritual life and sustenance. Unlike earthly rivers, it is described as "pure" and "clear as crystal," signifying absolute holiness, clarity, and unblemished perfection. It is the ultimate source of spiritual vitality for the redeemed, fulfilling the promise of the fountain of the water of life freely given. This imagery resonates with prophetic visions like Ezekiel 47:1-12, where a life-giving river flows from the temple, bringing healing and fruitfulness.
  • Divine Source: The river "proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb" underscores its divine origin and authority. It signifies that all life, blessing, and sustenance in the new creation flow directly from the presence and sovereign rule of God and Jesus Christ. This emphasizes their co-equality and shared reign, and that their very presence is the source of eternal life and all good things.
  • Restoration and Fulfillment: This vision represents the complete reversal of the curse introduced in the Fall. In the New Jerusalem, humanity lives in direct, unhindered communion with God, sustained by His infinite life and grace. It is the culmination of God's plan for humanity, a perfect environment where sin and its effects are completely absent.

Linguistic Insight

The phrase "water of life" translates the Greek hudor zoes (ὕδωρ ΞΆΟ‰αΏ†Ο‚). The word zoe here refers to a higher, spiritual, and eternal quality of life, not merely biological existence. It signifies the divine, imperishable life that originates from God. This concept is central to Jesus' teachings, such as when He offered "rivers of living water" to those who believe in Him, pointing to the Holy Spirit and the new life found in Him.

Practical Application

Revelation 22:1 offers profound comfort and hope to believers. It assures us of a future where God's presence is immediate, His provision is infinite, and life is eternal and pure. This verse reminds us that true life, meaning, and satisfaction come only from God. It encourages us to look forward to the complete restoration God promises, where there will be no more sorrow, pain, or separation, only the unending flow of divine life and blessing from the throne of God and the Lamb. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and the glorious destiny awaiting His people.

Note: Commentary was generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please remember that only the commentary section is AI-generated. The main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are sourced from trusted and verified materials.
The Message of the Book of Revelation The New Jerusalem: Revelation 21-22 An Introduction to Revelation: The Victory of the Lamb The "Beginning and the End": A Study of Genesis and Revelation How to Read Apocalyptic Literature (Revelation)

Cross-References

  • Revelation 7:17

    For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.

  • John 4:14

    But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

  • Psalms 36:8

    They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.

  • Psalms 36:9

    For with thee [is] the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.

  • John 7:38

    He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.

  • John 7:39

    (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet [given]; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

  • John 4:10

    Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.
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