Revelation 4:8

KJV

¶ And the four beasts had each of them six wings about [him]; and [they were] full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} the four {G5064} beasts {G2226} had {G2192} each {G303}{G1520} of them {G2596}{G1438} six {G1803} wings {G4420} about {G2943} him; and {G2532} they were full {G1073} of eyes {G3788} within {G2081}: and {G2532} they rest {G372} not {G3756}{G2192} day {G2250} and {G2532} night {G3571}, saying {G3004}, Holy {G40}, holy {G40}, holy {G40}, Lord {G2962} God {G2316} Almighty {G3841}, which {G3588} was {G2258}{G3801}, and {G2532} is {G5607}{G3801}, and {G2532} is to come {G2064}{G3801}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Each of the four living beings had six wings and was covered with eyes inside and out; and day and night they never stop saying,

“Holy, holy, holy is Adonai, God of heaven’s armies
the One who was, who is and who is coming!”

Berean Standard Bible

And each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around and within. Day and night they never stop saying: “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!”

American Standard Version

And the four living creatures, having each one of them six wings, are full of eyes round about and within: and they have no rest day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, isthe Lord God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 4:8 offers a profound glimpse into the ceaseless worship of God within the heavenly throne room, as four enigmatic living creatures, adorned with multiple wings and eyes, incessantly proclaim the tri-holy nature, omnipotence, and eternal sovereignty of the Lord God Almighty. This verse serves as a foundational declaration of divine majesty, emphasizing God's absolute holiness and His timeless reign over all creation, inspiring awe and reverence for His unchanging character.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 4 marks a pivotal transition in John's apocalyptic vision. Following the messages to the seven churches in Asia Minor in [Revelation 2-3](/revelation/2 "Revelation 2 - Messages to the Churches") that addressed their spiritual conditions and challenges, John is immediately transported "up hither" into the heavenly realm, as commanded in [Revelation 4:1](/revelation/4-1 "Revelation 4:1 - John Called to Heaven"). This shift moves from earthly church concerns to the cosmic reality of God's sovereign rule. Chapter 4 introduces the central figure of God enthroned, surrounded by twenty-four elders and the four living creatures, setting the stage for the unveiling of future events and judgments, all proceeding from the divine authority and holiness established here. The description of these creatures and their worship is foundational to understanding the source and nature of all subsequent revelations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery in Revelation 4:8 draws heavily from Old Testament prophetic traditions, particularly the visions of Ezekiel and Isaiah. The "living creatures" (Greek: _zōa_) resonate with the cherubim described in [Ezekiel 1](/ezekiel/1 "Ezekiel 1 - Vision of the Cherubim") and [Ezekiel 10](/ezekiel/10 "Ezekiel 10 - Vision of the Cherubim") and the seraphim in [Isaiah 6](/isaiah/6 "Isaiah 6 - Isaiah's Vision of God"). These creatures were understood in ancient Near Eastern cosmology as guardians of the divine presence and throne, often depicted with multiple faces, wings, and eyes, symbolizing their comprehensive knowledge, swiftness, and unwavering vigilance in serving God. The repeated "Holy, holy, holy" (Trisagion) directly echoes the seraphim's cry in [Isaiah 6:3](/isaiah/6-3 "Isaiah 6:3 - The Seraphim's Cry"), a profound declaration of God's absolute purity and transcendence that would have been immediately recognizable to Jewish readers familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Revelation and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores **God's Absolute Holiness**, presenting Him as utterly separate from sin and supremely pure, a truth that pervades the entire book and dictates the nature of divine judgment and redemption. Secondly, it highlights **Ceaseless Worship**, portraying a heavenly reality where adoration of God is continuous and unending, reflecting His infinite worthiness. This theme contrasts with the temporary and often flawed worship on earth, pointing to an eternal standard. Thirdly, the declaration "Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come" emphasizes **God's Eternal Sovereignty and Omnipotence**. This title, also found in [Revelation 1:8](/revelation/1-8 "Revelation 1:8 - God's Eternal Sovereignty"), establishes God as the unchanging, all-powerful ruler of history and creation, providing a theological anchor for the tumultuous events that follow in the book. Finally, the "eyes within" suggest **Divine Wisdom and Omniscience**, indicating that God's knowledge and perception are boundless, and that His heavenly attendants share in a profound awareness of His purposes.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Beasts (Greek, _zōon'_):** From G2226, meaning "a live thing, i.e. an animal." The KJV translation "beasts" can be misleading, as the Greek _zōon_ (ζῷον) more accurately translates to "living creatures." This distinction is crucial, as the term _thērion_ (θηρίον), meaning "wild beast," is used later in Revelation to refer to the malevolent political and spiritual powers opposing God. Here, _zōon_ emphasizes the vitality and spiritual nature of these beings, distinguishing them as divinely appointed attendants rather than monstrous entities. They embody life and are intimately connected to the source of all life.
* **Full of eyes within (Greek, _gemō'_ G1073, _ophthalmos'_ G3788, _esōthen'_ G2081):** G1073 (_gemō_) means "to swell out, i.e. be full." G3788 (_ophthalmos_) refers to "the eye (literally or figuratively)." G2081 (_esōthen_) means "from inside; also used as equivalent to ἔσω (inside)." The description of the living creatures being "full of eyes within" signifies their comprehensive knowledge, vigilance, and insight. The eyes symbolize omniscience and awareness, not only of external realities but also of the inner workings of God's purposes and creation. This imagery suggests a profound, all-encompassing perception, indicating that nothing escapes their notice, and by extension, nothing escapes God's notice.
* **Rest not (Greek, _anapausis'_ G372, _ou'_ G3756, _echō'_ G2192):** G372 (_anapausis_) means "intermission; by implication, recreation," or "rest." G3756 (_ou_) is the absolute negative adverb "no or not." G2192 (_echō_) means "to hold," or "to have." The phrase "they rest not" (οὐκ ἔχουσιν ἀνάπαυσιν) emphasizes the continuous and unending nature of their worship. Their adoration is not intermittent or wearying but a perpetual, energetic outpouring of praise. This ceaseless activity underscores God's unending worthiness and the eternal, dynamic reality of heavenly worship, which never diminishes because God's glory never fades.
* **Is to come (Greek, _erchomai'_ G2064, _ho ōn kai ho ēn kai ho erchomenos'_ G3801):** G2064 (_erchomai_) is a primary verb meaning "to come or go." G3801 (_ho ōn kai ho ēn kai ho erchomenos_) is a phrase meaning "the one being and the one that was and the one coming, i.e. the Eternal, as a divine epithet of Christ." This phrase, "which was, and is, and is to come," is a profound declaration of God's eternal nature, transcending all temporal limitations. It affirms His existence in the past (He "was"), His present reality (He "is"), and His future sovereignty (He "is to come"). This title encapsulates God's immutability, His active presence throughout history, and His ultimate authority over all future events, providing assurance of His unchanging character and ultimate victory.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him;":** This introduces the appearance of the four living creatures, specifying their number and the striking detail of six wings. The wings symbolize swiftness, readiness for service, and perhaps also a covering for humility or reverence in the divine presence, echoing the seraphim of Isaiah's vision. The phrase "about him" (referring to each creature) indicates the wings encircle their bodies, contributing to their majestic and formidable appearance.
* **"and they were full of eyes within:":** This detail emphasizes the creatures' extraordinary perception, knowledge, and vigilance. The eyes, both "within" and presumably without (as suggested by other passages), symbolize their comprehensive awareness of God's purposes, their constant watchfulness over creation, and perhaps their deep spiritual insight into the divine mysteries. This imagery conveys a sense of beings fully attuned to God's will and glory.
* **"and they rest not day and night, saying,":** This clause highlights the continuous, unending nature of their worship. The absence of "rest" (ἀνάπαυσις) signifies an unceasing, tireless devotion. "Day and night" emphasizes the perpetual cycle of their adoration, indicating that God's glory is so immense and His worthiness so absolute that He is worthy of constant, uninterrupted praise. This sets a standard for heavenly worship, a model for all creation.
* **"Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.":** This is the core of their ceaseless declaration. The **Trisagion**, "Holy, holy, holy," is a superlative expression of God's absolute purity, moral perfection, and transcendence, emphasizing His unique and incomparable nature. The title "Lord God Almighty" (Greek: _Kyrios Theos Pantokrator_) proclaims His supreme authority, omnipotence, and universal sovereignty over all things. The final phrase, "which was, and is, and is to come," declares God's eternal, self-existent nature, encompassing all time—past, present, and future—and affirming His unchanging presence and control over history.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 4:8 is rich in **Symbolism**, employing vivid imagery to convey profound theological truths. The "four beasts" (living creatures) themselves are symbolic, representing perhaps the highest order of created beings, or even all creation, in worship before God. Their "six wings" symbolize readiness for service and reverence, while being "full of eyes within" powerfully conveys **Omniscience** and **Vigilance**, suggesting an all-encompassing awareness and insight into divine purposes. The phrase "they rest not day and night" uses **Hyperbole** to emphasize the continuous, unceasing nature of heavenly worship, highlighting God's infinite worthiness. The most prominent device is **Repetition**, specifically the **Trisagion** ("Holy, holy, holy"). This threefold repetition, a Hebrew idiom for superlative emphasis, underscores God's absolute and incomparable holiness, making it the central attribute proclaimed. The entire verse functions as an **Apostrophe** or direct address to God, even though He is not explicitly speaking, as the creatures are declaring His attributes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 4:8 serves as a majestic theological cornerstone, establishing God's supreme holiness, eternal nature, and absolute sovereignty as the foundation for all subsequent revelations. The ceaseless worship of the living creatures underscores that adoration is the proper and perpetual response to God's inherent glory. This divine portrait provides comfort and assurance that despite earthly turmoil, an all-powerful, ever-present, and perfectly holy God remains enthroned, actively governing all things according to His unchanging character. This vision calls believers to align their worship and understanding with this heavenly reality, recognizing God's ultimate authority and worthiness above all else.

* [Isaiah 6:3](/isaiah/6-3 "The Seraphim's Holy Cry")
* [Ezekiel 1:18](/ezekiel/1-18 "Eyes on the Wheels")
* [Revelation 1:8](/revelation/1-8 "God's Eternal Declaration")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The profound vision of Revelation 4:8 calls us to a deeper understanding of who God is and what our response should be. To truly grasp that the Lord God Almighty is "Holy, holy, holy" should cultivate within us an overwhelming sense of awe, reverence, and humility. This isn't a distant, passive deity, but one whose very being radiates absolute purity and power, demanding continuous adoration from the highest heavenly beings. Our earthly worship, whether corporate or private, should strive to reflect this heavenly standard – not as a duty, but as an overflow of a heart captivated by His infinite worthiness. In a world characterized by change, uncertainty, and often chaos, the declaration that God "was, and is, and is to come" provides an unshakable anchor. It assures us of His unchanging presence, His sovereign control over all history, and His ultimate victory. This truth should inspire unwavering trust and confidence, knowing that the One who holds all time in His hands is our Lord.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the ceaseless nature of heavenly worship challenge or inspire your personal worship practices?**
* **What does the threefold declaration "Holy, holy, holy" reveal about God's character, and how should this understanding impact your daily life?**
* **In what ways does knowing God as "which was, and is, and is to come" provide comfort or challenge in your current circumstances?**

### FAQ

**What are the "four beasts" mentioned in Revelation 4:8?**

Answer: The "four beasts" are more accurately translated as "four living creatures" (from the Greek _zōa_). They are symbolic, majestic beings that serve as guardians of God's throne and lead the heavenly worship. Their description, with multiple wings and eyes, draws parallels to the cherubim and seraphim seen in Old Testament visions, such as those in [Ezekiel 1](/ezekiel/1 "Ezekiel 1 - Ezekiel's Vision of Living Creatures") and [Isaiah 6](/isaiah/6 "Isaiah 6 - Isaiah's Vision of the Seraphim"). They represent the highest order of created beings, perpetually engaged in worshipping and proclaiming God's attributes.

**Why do the living creatures say "Holy, holy, holy" three times?**

Answer: The threefold repetition, "Holy, holy, holy," known as the Trisagion, is a Hebrew idiom used to express the highest possible degree or superlative. It emphasizes God's absolute and incomparable holiness, purity, and moral perfection. The repetition underscores that God is not just holy, but supremely holy, set apart from all creation and sin. Theologically, many also interpret this triple declaration as an implicit reference to the Trinity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, all equally holy and worthy of worship. This same cry is found in [Isaiah 6:3](/isaiah/6-3 "The Seraphim's Cry of Holiness").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 4:8, while focusing on the worship of God the Father on His throne, inherently points to Christ in its profound declaration of God's eternal nature and ultimate sovereignty. The title "Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come" is also applied to Jesus Christ in [Revelation 1:8](/revelation/1-8 "Revelation 1:8 - Jesus' Divine Declaration"), affirming His co-eternality and shared divine attributes with the Father. The ceaseless worship of the living creatures, proclaiming God's holiness, foreshadows the Lamb's worthiness to receive the same adoration. Later in Revelation, the very same heavenly chorus will expand to include the worship of the Lamb who was slain ([Revelation 5:12-14](/revelation/5-12-14 "Revelation 5:12-14 - The Lamb's Worthiness to Receive Worship")). Jesus, as the Lamb of God, is the one through whom humanity gains access to this holy presence and participates in this eternal worship. His atoning sacrifice on the cross makes it possible for redeemed sinners to stand before the thrice-holy God. Furthermore, Christ is the one "who is to come," signifying His return in glory to fully establish God's kingdom, bringing to completion all that is declared in this heavenly throne room scene ([Revelation 22:20](/revelation/22-20 "Revelation 22:20 - Jesus' Promise to Return")). Thus, the worship in [Revelation 4:8](/revelation/4-8 "Revelation 4:8 - Worship of God on the Throne") is a Christ-centered worship, made possible by Him and ultimately directed to Him as part of the triune Godhead.

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 6:2

Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.

Isaiah 6:13

But yet in it [shall be] a tenth, and [it] shall return, and shall be eaten: as a teil tree, and as an oak, whose substance [is] in them, when they cast [their leaves: so] the holy seed [shall be] the substance thereof.

Revelation 1:8

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

Hebrews 13:8

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.

Revelation 4:6

And before the throne [there was] a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, [were] four beasts full of eyes before and behind.

Exodus 15:11

Who [is] like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who [is] like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful [in] praises, doing wonders?

Ezekiel 10:21

Every one had four faces apiece, and every one four wings; and the likeness of the hands of a man [was] under their wings.