Revelation 5:5

KJV

And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} one {G1520} of {G1537} the elders {G4245} saith {G3004} unto me {G3427}, Weep {G2799} not {G3361}: behold {G2400}, the Lion {G3023} of {G5607}{G1537} the tribe {G5443} of Juda {G2455}, the Root {G4491} of David {G1138}, hath prevailed {G3528} to open {G455} the book {G975}, and {G2532} to loose {G3089} the seven {G2033} seals {G4973} thereof {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

One of the elders said to me, “Don’t cry. Look, the Lion of the tribe of Y’hudah, the Root of David, has won the right to open the scroll and its seven seals.”

Berean Standard Bible

Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed to open the scroll and its seven seals.”

American Standard Version

and one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not; behold, the Lion that is of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath overcome to open the book and the seven seals thereof.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 5:5 marks a pivotal moment in John's apocalyptic vision, transitioning from profound despair to triumphant hope. As John weeps over the apparent inability of anyone to open the divinely sealed scroll, an elder reassures him by identifying the sole worthy figure: Jesus Christ, who is powerfully described by two messianic titles – "the Lion of the tribe of Juda" and "the Root of David" – signifying His unique authority and victorious work in prevailing to unlock God's redemptive and judgmental plan for all creation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the immediate resolution to the dramatic tension established in the preceding verses of [Revelation 5](/revelation/5 "Revelation Chapter 5 - The Lamb and the Scroll"). In [Revelation 5:1](/revelation/5-1 "Revelation 5:1 - The Sealed Scroll"), John sees a scroll in the right hand of God, sealed with seven seals, representing God's sovereign plan for history and salvation. A mighty angel then issues a challenge in [Revelation 5:2](/revelation/5-2 "Revelation 5:2 - Who is Worthy?"), asking who is worthy to open the scroll and look into it. The subsequent search, spanning heaven, earth, and under the earth, yields no one found worthy, leading to John's intense weeping in [Revelation 5:4](/revelation/5-4 "Revelation 5:4 - John's Weeping"). It is at this moment of profound despondency that the elder speaks, introducing the victorious Lion-Lamb who alone possesses the credentials to execute God's will, thus shifting the narrative from crisis to Christ-centered triumph.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The titles "Lion of the tribe of Juda" and "Root of David" are deeply rooted in Old Testament messianic expectation, resonating strongly with a Jewish audience. The "Lion of Judah" recalls Jacob's prophecy in [Genesis 49:9-10](/genesis/49-9-10 "Genesis 49:9-10 - Jacob's Prophecy of Judah"), where Judah is depicted as a lion, symbolizing strength, royalty, and leadership, from whose lineage a ruler would come. This prophecy was understood to point to the Davidic dynasty and ultimately to the Messiah. The "Root of David" (or Root of Jesse, David's father) directly references prophecies in [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Branch from Jesse") and [Isaiah 11:10](/isaiah/11-10 "Isaiah 11:10 - The Root of Jesse as a Standard"), which foretold a future ruler who would spring from David's line, bringing justice, peace, and serving as a banner for the nations. These titles would immediately signify to John and his contemporary readers the long-awaited Messiah, a figure of both royal authority and divine origin, capable of fulfilling God's covenant promises and executing His ultimate plan.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Revelation and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the **sovereignty and divine plan of God**, emphasizing that despite apparent obstacles, God's purposes will be perfectly executed by the one He has appointed. Secondly, it highlights the **unique worthiness and authority of Jesus Christ**, presenting Him as the central figure in cosmic history, the only one capable of unveiling and enacting God's end-time purposes. This theme is immediately juxtaposed with the image of the Lamb in [Revelation 5:6](/revelation/5-6 "Revelation 5:6 - The Lamb Who Was Slain"), revealing that Christ's worthiness stems from His redemptive sacrifice. Thirdly, the verse introduces the theme of **triumph over despair**, as John's weeping is met with a declaration of Christ's victory, assuring believers that ultimate victory belongs to God and His Messiah, even amidst tribulation. Finally, it reinforces the **continuity of God's covenant promises**, demonstrating how Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah's lineage and reign find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Lion (Greek, _léōn'_):** This term, a primary word for "lion," signifies power, majesty, and kingship. In the context of "the tribe of Juda," it directly alludes to [Genesis 49:9-10](/genesis/49-9-10 "Genesis 49:9-10 - Jacob's Prophecy of Judah"), where Judah is prophesied to be a lion's whelp, from whom a scepter will not depart until Shiloh comes. Thus, the "Lion of the tribe of Juda" points to Christ's royal authority, His Davidic lineage, and His conquering power, embodying the fulfillment of ancient messianic expectations for a king who would rule with strength and justice.
* **Root (Greek, _rhíza'_):** This word, meaning "root" literally or figuratively, refers to origin, source, or foundation. When applied to "David," it connects to Old Testament prophecies, particularly [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Branch from Jesse") and [Isaiah 11:10](/isaiah/11-10 "Isaiah 11:10 - The Root of Jesse"), which speak of a "root of Jesse" (David's father) who would arise. This title emphasizes Christ's divine origin and His role as the source and sustainer of David's royal line, not merely a descendant. He is the very foundation from which the Davidic covenant springs and the one who gives it ultimate meaning and fulfillment.
* **Prevailed (Greek, _nikáō'_):** Derived from the Greek word for victory (_níkē_), this verb means "to subdue, conquer, overcome, or get the victory." In this context, it signifies Christ's decisive and complete triumph over all obstacles, including sin, death, and the powers of darkness. His prevailing is what makes Him uniquely worthy to open the scroll and loose its seals. This victory was not achieved through earthly conquest but through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, which are further elaborated in the subsequent verses of [Revelation 5](/revelation/5 "Revelation 5 - The Lamb Who Was Slain").

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not:"** This opening phrase immediately addresses John's profound despair, providing comfort and a turning point in the vision. The elder, likely representing the redeemed church or heavenly beings, serves as an interpreter and guide for John, reassuring him that the situation is not hopeless.
* **"behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David,"** This is the core identification of the worthy one. "Behold" (Greek, _idoú_) draws John's attention to a significant revelation. The two titles are powerful messianic designations, affirming Jesus' identity as the prophesied King, embodying both the strength and royal lineage promised in the Old Testament.
* **"hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof."** This declares the reason for Christ's worthiness and the scope of His authority. His "prevailing" (Greek, _nikáō_) refers to His victory over sin and death through His crucifixion and resurrection. This triumph has granted Him the unique right and power to "open the book" (Greek, _biblíon_, a scroll) and "loose the seven seals" (Greek, _sphragís_, signets), thereby initiating the unfolding of God's sovereign plan for history, judgment, and redemption.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 5:5 is rich with **Symbolism** and **Metaphor**, primarily through the dual titles ascribed to Jesus. The "Lion of the tribe of Juda" is a powerful **metaphor** for Christ's kingly authority, strength, and conquering nature, drawing directly from the tribal emblem of Judah and its prophetic association with royalty in [Genesis 49:9-10](/genesis/49-9-10 "Genesis 49:9-10 - Jacob's Prophecy of Judah"). Similarly, "the Root of David" functions as a **metaphor** and **symbol** for Christ's divine origin and His role as the source and fulfillment of the Davidic covenant, echoing prophecies in [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Branch from Jesse") and [Isaiah 11:10](/isaiah/11-10 "Isaiah 11:10 - The Root of Jesse"). The contrast between John's weeping and the elder's declaration of Christ's triumph creates **dramatic irony** and highlights the sudden shift from despair to hope. The "book" and "seven seals" are themselves potent **symbols** of God's sovereign plan and the hidden mysteries of His will, which only Christ can reveal and enact.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 5:5 is a profound theological statement on the person and work of Jesus Christ, affirming His unique qualifications as the one mediating God's ultimate plan. It establishes that Christ's worthiness to execute divine judgment and redemption is rooted in His victorious life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection. He is not merely a powerful figure, but the fulfillment of centuries of messianic prophecy, embodying both the majestic power of a conquering king and the foundational lineage that connects Him to God's covenant promises. This verse sets the stage for the revelation of Christ as the Lamb who was slain, demonstrating that His triumph was achieved not through brute force, but through self-sacrificial love, making Him the only one capable of opening the scroll of destiny.

* [Genesis 49:9-10](/genesis/49-9-10 "Jacob's Prophecy of Judah's Lion-like Rule")
* [Isaiah 11:1-2](/isaiah/11-1-2 "The Branch from Jesse, filled with the Spirit")
* [Revelation 5:6](/revelation/5-6 "The Lamb Who Was Slain, Standing")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 5:5 offers immense comfort and profound assurance to believers facing uncertainty, fear, or the apparent chaos of the world. In moments when we, like John, might weep over seemingly insurmountable problems or the unfolding of difficult global events, this verse powerfully reminds us that Jesus Christ, the majestic "Lion of the tribe of Juda" and the foundational "Root of David," has already prevailed. His victory is comprehensive, securing His authority over all history and the future. We are called to place our trust in His supreme worthiness and sovereign control, knowing that His ultimate triumph over all evil, sin, and despair is guaranteed. This truth allows us to live with hope, courage, and a deep sense of peace, understanding that God's perfect plan of salvation and justice will be accomplished through Christ, who holds the keys to all things.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or the world do you, like John, find yourself weeping or feeling despair?**
* **How does the assurance that Jesus Christ "has prevailed" impact your perspective on these challenges?**
* **What does it mean for you personally that Jesus is both the "Lion of the tribe of Juda" (conquering King) and the "Root of David" (faithful fulfillment of covenant)?**
* **How can remembering Christ's unique worthiness strengthen your faith and trust in God's ultimate plan?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Jesus being called "the Lion of the tribe of Juda" and "the Root of David"?**

Answer: These two titles are profoundly significant messianic designations rooted in Old Testament prophecy. "The Lion of the tribe of Juda" connects Jesus to [Genesis 49:9-10](/genesis/49-9-10 "Genesis 49:9-10 - Jacob's Prophecy of Judah"), where Jacob prophesies that a ruler will come from Judah's lineage, described as a lion. This signifies Jesus' royal authority, power, and conquering nature as the King of kings. "The Root of David" refers to prophecies in [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Branch from Jesse") and [Isaiah 11:10](/isaiah/11-10 "Isaiah 11:10 - The Root of Jesse"), which speak of a new shoot or root from the line of Jesse (David's father). This title emphasizes Jesus' divine origin, His role as the source and sustainer of David's royal line, and His fulfillment of God's covenant with David. Together, they powerfully affirm Jesus' identity as the long-awaited Messiah, who is both fully divine and fully human, with the authority to execute God's plan.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 5:5 serves as a profound Christ-centered fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and a central declaration of Christ's unique worthiness. The "Lion of the tribe of Juda" is a direct **allusion** to [Genesis 49:9-10](/genesis/49-9-10 "Genesis 49:9-10 - Jacob's Prophecy of Judah"), where Jacob foretells a ruler from Judah's lineage. This prophecy finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the King who triumphs over all, not through earthly might but through His sacrificial love and resurrection. Similarly, "the Root of David" echoes prophecies from [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Branch from Jesse") and [Isaiah 11:10](/isaiah/11-10 "Isaiah 11:10 - The Root of Jesse"), identifying Jesus as the one who springs forth from David's lineage to establish an eternal kingdom. This is affirmed throughout the New Testament, where Jesus is consistently presented as the Son of David, the rightful heir to the throne ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Genealogy of Jesus"), [Romans 1:3](/romans/1-3 "Romans 1:3 - Descended from David")). His "prevailing" to open the scroll is not merely a symbolic act, but the direct consequence of His finished work on the cross and His resurrection, by which He conquered sin, death, and the grave ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities"), [Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Destroying the Power of Death")). Thus, the Lion of Judah, the Root of David, is ultimately the Lamb who was slain ([Revelation 5:6](/revelation/5-6 "Revelation 5:6 - The Lamb Who Was Slain")), whose victory through sacrifice makes Him uniquely worthy to unveil and execute God's sovereign plan for all creation, culminating in His eternal reign ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Jesus' Exaltation")).

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 11:1

¶ And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:

Jeremiah 23:5

Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.

Jeremiah 23:6

In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this [is] his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

Revelation 22:16

I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, [and] the bright and morning star.

Hebrews 7:14

For [it is] evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.

Romans 15:12

And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust.

Isaiah 11:10

¶ And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.