Revelation 6:6

Commentary on Revelation 6:6 (KJV)

Revelation 6:6 describes the economic impact of the third seal, revealed by the rider on the black horse, signifying widespread famine and scarcity. This verse highlights the severe hardship that will characterize a period of divine judgment, yet also implies a degree of divine control over the extent of the calamity.

Context

This verse follows the opening of the third seal by the Lamb, which introduces a black horse and its rider holding a pair of balances. The voice heard in this verse emanates from the midst of the four living creatures, who are central to the throne room of God (Revelation 4:6). This voice issues a decree concerning the prices of basic foodstuffs and the preservation of certain luxuries, underscoring that these events are under divine orchestration.

Key Themes

• Economic Hardship and Famine: The proclamation of "A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny" paints a stark picture of extreme inflation and food scarcity. A "penny" (Greek: denarius) was typically a full day's wage for a common laborer (Matthew 20:2). To spend an entire day's earnings on just one measure (Greek: choenix), enough wheat for one person's daily sustenance, indicates severe economic distress. Barley, being cheaper, would be the staple for the very poor, yet still exorbitantly priced.
• Divine Control and Limits: The command, "hurt not the oil and the wine," suggests that the famine is not absolute or indiscriminate. Oil and wine were often considered more luxurious or stable commodities in the ancient world, representing prosperity and joy (Psalm 104:15). This limitation implies that God's judgment, while severe, is precise and purposeful, perhaps sparing certain aspects of life or certain groups, or indicating that the spiritual sustenance and joy (symbolized by oil and wine) of believers will be preserved even amidst hardship.
• Social Inequality: The high prices for basic grains, while oil and wine are protected, could subtly highlight the widening gap between the rich and the poor during times of crisis. Those with means might still afford the luxuries, while the majority struggle for basic survival.

Linguistic Insights

The term "measure" is from the Greek word choenix (χοῖνιξ), which was a dry measure equivalent to about a quart or a day's ration for one man. The "penny" is from the Greek denarius (δηνάριον), a Roman silver coin that represented a typical day's wage for a laborer. The specific value exchange emphasizes the devastating inflation and the dire economic conditions described.

Practical Application

Revelation 6:6 serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of human prosperity and the reality of God's sovereignty over all events, including periods of judgment and scarcity. Even in the midst of severe economic hardship, there is a clear indication of divine oversight, with limits placed on the extent of suffering. For believers, this can be a call to:

• Trust in God's Provision: Even when resources are scarce, God remains in control and has the power to sustain His people.
• Compassion for the Vulnerable: The imagery of exorbitant food prices should stir compassion for those who suffer from poverty and famine today.
• Spiritual Resilience: The preservation of "oil and wine" can symbolize the enduring presence of the Holy Spirit and spiritual joy for believers, even when physical sustenance is threatened. This encourages us to seek lasting spiritual nourishment above fleeting material security.