Revelation 6:6

KJV

And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and [see] thou hurt not the oil and the wine.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} I heard {G191} a voice {G5456} in {G1722} the midst {G3319} of the four {G5064} beasts {G2226} say {G3004}, A measure {G5518} of wheat {G4621} for a penny {G1220}, and {G2532} three {G5140} measures {G5518} of barley {G2915} for a penny {G1220}; and {G2532} see thou hurt {G91} not {G3361} the oil {G1637} and {G2532} the wine {G3631}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then I heard what sounded like a voice from among the four living beings say, “Two pounds of wheat for a day’s wages! Six pounds of barley for the same price! But don’t damage the oil or the wine!”

Berean Standard Bible

And I heard what sounded like a voice from among the four living creatures, saying, “A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius, and do not harm the oil and wine.”

American Standard Version

And I heard as it were a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, A measure of wheat for a shilling, and three measures of barley for a shilling; and the oil and the wine hurt thou not.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 6:6 unveils the devastating economic impact of the third seal, characterized by a voice from the throne room proclaiming exorbitant prices for essential grains while paradoxically commanding the preservation of oil and wine. This passage vividly portrays a period of severe famine and scarcity, where a full day's wage barely covers a single person's daily sustenance, yet it also subtly implies a divine hand controlling the extent and nature of this judgment, highlighting both hardship and a degree of restraint.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the opening of the [third seal by the Lamb](/revelation/6-5 "Revelation 6:5 - The Third Seal and the Black Horse"), which introduces a black horse and its rider holding a pair of balances. The balances themselves are a symbol of scarcity and the careful rationing of food. The voice heard in this verse emanates "in the midst of the four beasts," referring to the four living creatures surrounding God's throne, as described in [Revelation 4:6](/revelation/4-6 "Revelation 4:6 - The Four Living Creatures"). Their proximity to the throne and their role in the heavenly worship underscore that this proclamation is a direct decree from divine authority, not a random occurrence, indicating that these unfolding judgments are under God's precise orchestration. The sequence of seals (conquest, war, famine, death) reveals a progressive intensification of judgment upon the earth.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The economic terms used in [Revelation 6:6](/revelation/6-6 "Revelation 6:6 - Famine and Scarcity") are deeply rooted in the ancient Roman world. A "penny" (Greek: _denarius_) was the standard daily wage for a common laborer, as illustrated in [Matthew 20:2](/matthew/20-2 "Matthew 20:2 - Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard"). A "measure" (Greek: _choenix_) of wheat was roughly equivalent to a quart, considered the minimum daily sustenance for one person. Therefore, to spend an entire day's wage for a single measure of wheat signifies hyperinflation and severe food scarcity, where basic survival becomes a daily struggle. Barley, being a coarser and less desirable grain, was typically consumed by the very poor, and its price, though three times the quantity for the same penny, still represents a dire situation for those who could not afford wheat. Oil and wine, while staples, also represented prosperity, joy, and often luxury in the ancient Mediterranean diet, contrasting sharply with the scarcity of basic grains.
* **Key Themes:** [Revelation 6:6](/revelation/6-6 "Revelation 6:6 - Famine and Scarcity") contributes to several major themes within the book of Revelation and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it vividly portrays **economic hardship and famine** as a consequence of divine judgment, a recurring theme in prophetic literature when people turn away from God (e.g., [Leviticus 26:26](/leviticus/26-26 "Leviticus 26:26 - Consequences of Disobedience")). Secondly, the command "hurt not the oil and the wine" introduces the theme of **divine control and limits** on judgment. Even amidst severe calamity, God's sovereignty ensures that the suffering is not absolute or indiscriminate. This implies a purposeful and precise judgment, perhaps sparing certain aspects of life or certain groups, or symbolizing the preservation of spiritual blessings (like the Holy Spirit, often symbolized by oil, and joy, symbolized by wine) for believers even in tribulation. Thirdly, the stark contrast between the exorbitant price of basic grains and the protection of oil and wine subtly highlights **social inequality**, where the wealthy might still afford luxuries while the poor struggle for survival, a social injustice often condemned in the Old Testament prophets (e.g., [Amos 8:4-6](/amos/8-4-6 "Amos 8:4-6 - Oppression of the Poor")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **penny (Greek, _dēnárion'_):** Derived from Latin, this term refers to a denarius, a Roman silver coin that was typically a day's wage for a common laborer. Its use here emphasizes the extreme inflation and economic distress, as a full day's work yields only enough food for one person for one day.
* **measure (Greek, _choînix'_):** This word denotes a chœnix, a specific dry measure equivalent to about a quart, which was considered the standard daily ration of grain for one person. The mention of this specific quantity underscores the precise and severe nature of the famine, where even this minimal sustenance comes at an exorbitant cost.
* **hurt (Greek, _adikéō'_):** From the root meaning "unjust," this verb signifies to do wrong, injure, or act unjustly. In this context, it is a divine command to "not injure" or "not harm" the oil and wine, indicating a deliberate and specific limitation on the scope of the economic devastation. This implies a purposeful preservation of these commodities, contrasting with the scarcity of wheat and barley.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say":** This opening phrase establishes the divine authority and origin of the proclamation. The "four beasts" (living creatures) are central figures in God's throne room, signifying that the message is a direct, authoritative decree from the very presence of God, underscoring the divine orchestration of these judgments.
* **"A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny;":** This clause reveals the dire economic conditions. A "measure" (choenix) of wheat, a single day's ration, costs a "penny" (denarius), a full day's wage. For barley, a less desirable grain, three measures could be bought for the same price. This signifies extreme inflation and scarcity, where basic sustenance consumes all of a laborer's income, highlighting widespread famine and hardship.
* **"and [see] thou hurt not the oil and the wine.":** This concluding command introduces a crucial limitation to the judgment. Despite the severe scarcity of grains, oil and wine are to be preserved. This suggests that the famine is not total or indiscriminate, but rather a controlled and purposeful judgment. It implies that certain aspects of life, or perhaps certain groups, are protected, or it may symbolize the preservation of spiritual blessings amidst physical hardship.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent **Symbolism** elements. The **black horse** itself symbolizes famine and scarcity, while the **balances** held by its rider represent the careful rationing and high cost of food. **Wheat and barley** symbolize basic, essential sustenance, their exorbitant prices emphasizing widespread hardship. In contrast, **oil and wine** symbolize more luxurious or stable commodities, often associated with prosperity, joy, and celebration in ancient cultures. Their preservation, therefore, carries significant symbolic weight, suggesting divine restraint or the protection of spiritual blessings. The **voice from the four beasts** serves as a powerful symbol of divine authority and the direct, deliberate nature of God's judgments. The economic figures themselves, particularly the "penny" for a "measure" of wheat, function as **Hyperbole** to underscore the extreme and devastating nature of the impending famine, making the dire situation immediately understandable to the audience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 6:6 powerfully illustrates God's sovereign control over all creation, including the natural order and economic systems. Even in judgment, His actions are precise and purposeful, never arbitrary. The famine described is not a random disaster but a divinely ordained consequence, designed to bring about specific outcomes. The preservation of oil and wine, while grains are scarce, suggests that God's judgments are always tempered with mercy and a clear distinction between what is affected and what is protected. This can point to the enduring spiritual provision for believers, even when physical sustenance is threatened, reminding us that true life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.

* [Leviticus 26:26](/leviticus/26-26 "Leviticus 26:26 - Consequences of Disobedience"): "And when I have broken the staff of your bread, ten women shall bake your bread in one oven, and they shall deliver you your bread again by weight: and ye shall eat, and not be satisfied." (Illustrates famine as a judgment where food is rationed and insufficient).
* [Psalm 104:15](/psalm/104-15 "Psalm 104:15 - God's Provision in Creation"): "And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth man's heart." (Shows wine, oil, and bread as God's good provisions, making their scarcity or preservation significant).
* [Haggai 1:6](/haggai/1-6 "Haggai 1:6 - A Call to Rebuild the Temple"): "Ye have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes." (Depicts economic hardship and lack of satisfaction, mirroring the dire situation in Revelation 6:6).

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 6:6 serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of human systems and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all circumstances, including periods of economic distress and scarcity. It challenges us to consider where our ultimate security lies. In a world often preoccupied with material wealth and comfort, this verse calls us to re-evaluate our priorities, recognizing that true sustenance and joy are not found in abundance of possessions but in a right relationship with God. The preservation of "oil and wine" can be a powerful symbol of God's enduring spiritual provision—the presence of the Holy Spirit and the joy of salvation—even amidst the most challenging external circumstances. This encourages believers to cultivate spiritual resilience, trusting that God will sustain their inner life even when the outer world is in turmoil. It also compels us to develop a profound sense of compassion for those globally who currently face food insecurity and economic hardship, moving us to prayer and practical action.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this verse challenge my reliance on material security and prompt me to deepen my trust in God's provision?**
* **In what ways might the "oil and wine" symbolize spiritual blessings that God preserves for believers even in times of tribulation?**
* **What is my responsibility, as a follower of Christ, to those who are experiencing economic hardship and food scarcity in the world today?**

### FAQ
**What does the "penny" represent in this verse?**

Answer: The "penny" (Greek: _dēnárion_) represents a denarius, which was a Roman silver coin. In the ancient world, it was the typical wage for a common laborer for a full day's work. By stating that a "measure" (a single person's daily ration) of wheat costs a penny, the verse vividly illustrates extreme hyperinflation and food scarcity. It means that an entire day's labor would only yield enough food for one person for that single day, leaving nothing for other necessities or for family members. This paints a picture of severe economic distress and widespread famine.

**Why are "oil and wine" spared from harm while wheat and barley are so expensive?**

Answer: The command "hurt not the oil and the wine" is a significant detail that suggests a deliberate limitation on the judgment. The exact reason is debated, but several interpretations exist. Theologically, it implies that God's judgment is not indiscriminate but precise and purposeful. It could symbolize the preservation of certain aspects of life, or perhaps certain groups, from the full brunt of the famine. Spiritually, oil (often symbolizing the Holy Spirit or anointing) and wine (often symbolizing joy, fellowship, or the blood of Christ) might represent spiritual blessings that are preserved for believers even amidst physical tribulation. Economically, these were often more stable or luxury commodities, suggesting that the very wealthy might still maintain their lifestyle while the poor suffer, highlighting social inequality. Ultimately, it underscores God's sovereign control over the extent of the calamity.

**Is the famine described in Revelation 6:6 meant to be understood literally or symbolically?**

Answer: Like much of Revelation, the famine described in [Revelation 6:6](/revelation/6-6 "Revelation 6:6 - Famine and Scarcity") can be understood on both literal and symbolic levels. Literally, it depicts a period of severe economic hardship and food scarcity, where basic necessities become prohibitively expensive, leading to widespread suffering. This aligns with historical patterns of famine and economic collapse. Symbolically, it represents the devastating consequences of divine judgment on a world that has rejected God's ways. The black horse and the balances are symbolic of scarcity and injustice. The contrast between basic grains and protected luxuries also symbolizes the moral and social decay that accompanies such judgments. While it may manifest in literal famines, the passage's primary intent is to convey the severity and nature of God's righteous judgments against sin.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 6:6, with its stark portrayal of famine and the high cost of life's necessities, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus. While the passage speaks of physical scarcity and judgment, Christ is revealed as the ultimate answer to humanity's deepest hunger and the source of true, unending provision. He declared, "[I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")", offering spiritual sustenance that transcends any earthly scarcity. The exorbitant price of wheat for a penny foreshadows the immense cost of our salvation—not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with "[the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot](/1_peter/1-18-19 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redemption through Christ's Blood")". Furthermore, the preservation of "oil and wine" amidst the famine can be seen as a prophetic glimpse of the spiritual blessings secured for believers through Christ: the anointing of the Holy Spirit (often symbolized by oil) and the joy and new covenant communion found in His blood (symbolized by wine, as in the Eucharist). Even when the world experiences tribulation and scarcity, those who are in Christ have an enduring source of life, joy, and spiritual nourishment that the world cannot take away, for "[My God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God's Provision through Christ")". He is the one who satisfies every longing, turning the judgment of scarcity into an invitation to find true abundance in Him.

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

Revelation 9:4

And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads.

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.

Revelation 7:3

Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.

Psalms 76:10

Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.