Revelation 9:11

KJV

And they had a king over them, [which is] the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue [is] Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath [his] name Apollyon.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} they had {G2192} a king {G935} over {G1909} them {G848}, which is the angel {G32} of the bottomless pit {G12}, whose {G846} name {G3686} in the Hebrew tongue {G1447} is Abaddon {G3}, but {G2532} in {G1722} the Greek tongue {G1673} hath {G2192} his name {G3686} Apollyon {G623}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They had as king over them the angel of the Abyss, whose name in Hebrew is “Abaddon” and in our language, “Destroyer.”

Berean Standard Bible

They were ruled by a king, the angel of the Abyss. His name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek it is Apollyon.

American Standard Version

They have over them as king the angel of the abyss: his name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in the Greek tongue he hath the name Apollyon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 9:11 introduces the enigmatic leader of the demonic locusts unleashed during the fifth trumpet judgment: an angelic being identified as the "angel of the bottomless pit." This figure is given two significant names, Abaddon in Hebrew and Apollyon in Greek, both powerfully conveying the essence of destruction and ruin, underscoring the devastating purpose of the forces he commands and the ultimate nature of evil itself.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 9:11 is situated within the highly symbolic and apocalyptic narrative of the Book of Revelation, specifically following the sounding of the fifth trumpet judgment (Revelation 9:1-12). This judgment unleashes a terrifying horde of "locusts" from the bottomless pit, which are not natural insects but supernatural entities described with scorpion-like tails and human-like faces, given power to torment those without the seal of God for five months. The immediate verses describe their appearance, their limited scope of destruction (only harming unsealed humanity, not vegetation), and their desire to torment rather than kill. Verse 9:11 then identifies the king who leads these tormenting forces, providing a crucial detail about their organized, malevolent leadership and their ultimate destructive agenda, setting the stage for further judgments.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery of locusts as a divine judgment was deeply rooted in the Old Testament, recalling plagues like those in [Exodus 10](/exodus/10 "Exodus 10 - The Plague of Locusts") or the destructive forces described in [Joel 1-2](/joel/1 "Joel 1-2 - The Day of the Lord and Locust Plague"). However, John's vision transforms this familiar imagery into something far more terrifying and demonic, reflecting the apocalyptic worldview of the first century. The concept of a "bottomless pit" (Greek: *abyssos*) was known in both Jewish and Hellenistic thought as a place of detention for evil spirits or the dead, often associated with chaos and the underworld. The naming of this king in both Hebrew (Abaddon) and Greek (Apollyon) would have resonated with John's diverse audience, encompassing both Jewish Christians familiar with Hebrew terminology and Gentile Christians conversant in Greek, emphasizing the universal scope and destructive nature of this entity.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes present in Revelation and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the theme of **demonic authority and organization**, revealing that evil forces are not chaotic but possess a hierarchical structure with a designated leader, as seen in passages like [Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Spiritual Warfare"). Furthermore, the names Abaddon and Apollyon powerfully emphasize the **destructive nature of evil**, aligning with the biblical understanding that Satan and his agents seek to "steal and kill and destroy" ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - The Thief's Purpose")). The verse also underscores the **sovereignty of God**, as even this terrifying king and his forces are released and operate only under divine permission and within a divinely appointed timeframe, reinforcing the truth that God remains in ultimate control of all events, even those of judgment, as foreshadowed in [Job 1:12](/job/1-12 "Job 1:12 - Satan's Limited Power").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **bottomless pit (Greek, _ábyssos'_):** Derived from Greek, meaning "depthless" or "abyss." In biblical usage, it refers to a deep, infernal chasm, often a place of detention for demonic spirits or the realm of the dead. Its presence here signifies the origin of these destructive forces from a primeval, chaotic, and hellish domain, emphasizing their supernatural and malevolent nature.
* **Abaddon (Hebrew, _Abaddṓn'_):** This Hebrew name directly translates to "destruction," "ruin," or "place of perishing." In the Old Testament, it often refers to the underworld or the realm of the dead, sometimes synonymous with Sheol. Here, it is personified as a proper name for the king of the demonic locusts, highlighting his identity as the embodiment and agent of utter destruction.
* **Apollyon (Greek, _Apollýōn'_):** This Greek name is an active participle of the verb *apollymi*, meaning "to destroy" or "to perish." Thus, Apollyon unequivocally means "Destroyer." The dual naming in both Hebrew and Greek underscores the universal and pervasive character of this destructive entity, signaling his influence across all peoples and his singular purpose: to bring about ruin and desolation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they had a king over them":** This phrase immediately establishes a hierarchical structure among the demonic locusts. It indicates that these entities, though terrifying in their own right, are not operating autonomously but are under the command of a specific, powerful leader. This highlights the organized nature of evil forces.
* **"[which is] the angel of the bottomless pit":** This clause identifies the king as an "angel," but one uniquely associated with the "bottomless pit" (*abyssos*). This signifies that he is a supernatural being, likely a fallen angel or demon, whose domain and origin are from the depths of chaos and spiritual imprisonment. His title as "angel of the bottomless pit" denotes his authority over and perhaps even his release from this infernal realm.
* **"whose name in the Hebrew tongue [is] Abaddon":** This reveals the first of the king's two names, given in Hebrew. "Abaddon" (אֲבַדּוֹן) means "destruction" or "ruin." The mention of the "Hebrew tongue" suggests an appeal to John's Jewish audience, connecting this figure to Old Testament concepts of destruction and the underworld, and emphasizing the profound, destructive nature inherent in his very being.
* **"but in the Greek tongue hath [his] name Apollyon":** This provides the second name, given in Greek, "Apollyon." This name, meaning "Destroyer," serves as a direct translation and confirmation of the Hebrew "Abaddon." The inclusion of both names underscores the universal scope of this destructive entity's influence, reaching both Jewish and Gentile audiences, and unequivocally declares his essential character as an agent of ruin.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 9:11 employs several significant literary devices. **Symbolism** is paramount, with the "angel of the bottomless pit" symbolizing the ultimate personification of destructive evil and the organized nature of demonic forces. The "bottomless pit" itself is a potent symbol of chaos, imprisonment, and the origin of malevolent spiritual power. **Naming** is also crucial, as the dual names "Abaddon" and "Apollyon" are not mere labels but serve as powerful **epithets** that define the very essence and purpose of this angelic king. These names function as a form of **characterization**, immediately conveying the destructive intent and nature of the figure without needing further description. The use of both Hebrew and Greek names also demonstrates **cultural bridging**, ensuring the message's resonance across diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds within the early Christian community.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 9:11 offers a stark glimpse into the reality of spiritual warfare and the nature of the adversary. The revelation of Abaddon/Apollyon as a king over demonic forces underscores the organized and purposeful nature of evil, reminding believers that the struggle is not against mere flesh and blood but against unseen spiritual powers. This figure, whose very names mean "destruction" and "destroyer," embodies the ultimate goal of the enemy: to bring ruin, chaos, and separation from God. Yet, even in this terrifying depiction, the sovereignty of God is implicitly affirmed, as this "angel of the bottomless pit" is only released and operates within the confines of God's divine plan and timing, demonstrating that no evil force can ultimately thwart God's purposes.

* [Job 26:6](/job/26-6 "Job 26:6 - Abaddon and Sheol before God")
* [Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Spiritual Warfare Against Principalities")
* [John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - The Thief Comes to Steal, Kill, and Destroy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 9:11, while deeply symbolic and prophetic, offers profound insights for contemporary believers concerning the nature of spiritual opposition and the ultimate triumph of God. It compels us to recognize that evil is not a random, chaotic force, but an organized kingdom with a malevolent leader whose very essence is destruction. This understanding should lead us to greater vigilance, prayer, and reliance on God's protection. We are reminded that our true battle is spiritual, requiring the full armor of God, and that identifying the enemy's nature helps us to stand firm. Furthermore, the limited power and specific names of this king, revealed by God, assure us that even the most terrifying manifestations of evil are known to God, contained by His sovereignty, and ultimately destined for defeat. This knowledge should cultivate a deep sense of peace and trust in God's ultimate control, even amidst the world's turmoil.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the revelation of an organized demonic kingdom, led by a "king" of destruction, impact your understanding of spiritual warfare?**
* **In what ways might the "destructive" nature of Abaddon/Apollyon manifest in the world or in personal spiritual battles today?**
* **How does knowing that even this destructive angel operates under God's permission strengthen your faith in God's sovereignty?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "angel of the bottomless pit" mentioned in Revelation 9:11?**

Answer: The "angel of the bottomless pit" is identified as the king who leads the demonic locusts unleashed during the fifth trumpet judgment in [Revelation 9](/revelation/9 "Revelation 9 - The Fifth and Sixth Trumpets"). His names, Abaddon (Hebrew for "destruction") and Apollyon (Greek for "destroyer"), reveal his essential nature and purpose. While some interpretations suggest this figure could be Satan himself, others understand him as a powerful demonic entity or a specific fallen angel given authority over the abyss and its inhabitants for a specific period of judgment. The text emphasizes his role as a leader of destructive forces rather than providing a definitive identity beyond that.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Revelation 9:11 vividly portrays the destructive power of evil personified in Abaddon/Apollyon, it simultaneously highlights the absolute necessity and ultimate triumph of Christ. This "destroyer" stands in stark contrast to Jesus, who came not to destroy but to give life, and life more abundantly ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - Jesus Gives Life Abundantly")). The authority of this king of the abyss, though terrifying, is temporal and limited, operating only by divine permission, unlike the eternal and supreme authority of Christ, to whom "all authority in heaven and on earth has been given" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). Jesus, through His death and resurrection, has conquered the one who had the power of death, that is, the devil ([Hebrews 2:14](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14 - Jesus Destroys the Power of Death")), and holds the keys of Death and Hades ([Revelation 1:18](/revelation/1-18 "Revelation 1:18 - Christ Holds the Keys of Death and Hades")). Thus, Abaddon/Apollyon represents the defeated enemy whose destructive work is ultimately undone and judged by the Lamb of God, who alone is worthy to open the seals and execute God's righteous plan ([Revelation 5:5](/revelation/5-5 "Revelation 5:5 - The Lamb is Worthy")).

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

Job 26:6

Hell [is] naked before him, and destruction hath no covering.

Revelation 9:1

¶ And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit.

Revelation 9:2

And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit.

John 8:44

Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

Ephesians 2:2

Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

John 16:11

Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

2 Corinthians 4:4

In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.