9:11 9:11

Revelation 9:12

9:13 9:13

Bible Versions

One woe is past; [and], behold, there come two woes more hereafter.
One {G3391} woe {G3759} is past {G565}; and, behold {G2400}, there come {G2064} two {G1417} woes {G3759} more {G2089} hereafter {G3326}{G5023}.
The first woe has passed, but there are still two woes to come.
The first woe has passed. Behold, two woes are still to follow.
The first Woe is past: behold, there come yet two Woes hereafter.

Revelation 9:12 serves as a dramatic interlude in the midst of the apocalyptic visions, marking the conclusion of one phase of divine judgment and the anticipation of further, more severe events. The verse declares, "One woe is past; [and], behold, there come two woes more hereafter." This pronouncement from the apostle John underscores the methodical and escalating nature of God's judgments upon the unrepentant world as revealed in the Book of Revelation.

Context

This verse immediately follows the detailed description of the fifth trumpet judgment, often identified as the first "woe." This initial judgment involved a demonic host, described as locusts from the bottomless pit, tormenting humanity for five months (see Revelation 9:1-11). The pause at verse 12 emphasizes that while this specific period of torment has concluded, the overarching sequence of judgments is far from over. It builds suspense and prepares the reader for the even more devastating events to follow, specifically the sixth trumpet (the second woe) and the seventh trumpet (the third woe).

Key Themes

  • Escalation of Judgment: The verse highlights a deliberate progression and intensification of divine judgment. Each "woe" signifies a distinct, more severe phase of God's wrath, indicating that humanity's continued rebellion will meet with increasing consequences.
  • Divine Sovereignty: Despite the chaos and suffering described, this verse, like much of Revelation, affirms that God remains in complete control. The judgments are not random but are part of a sovereign plan unfolding according to His timing and purpose.
  • Warning and Foreshadowing: The declaration acts as a solemn warning to those who refuse to repent, emphasizing that the initial judgments are merely a prelude to greater tribulations. It serves as a call to consider the gravity of God's righteous anger against sin, a theme echoed throughout prophetic literature (e.g., Romans 2:5).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "woe" is οὐαί (ouai), which is more than just an expression of sorrow or pain. It is a profound interjection signifying a pronouncement of judgment, a lament, and a warning of impending disaster. When repeated, as in "Woe, woe, woe" (e.g., Revelation 8:13), it amplifies the severity and certainty of the coming calamities. The word "behold" (ἰδοὺ - idou) is used to draw immediate attention to what is about to be revealed, emphasizing the certainty and significance of the two remaining woes.

Practical Application

For a contemporary audience, Revelation 9:12 serves as a powerful reminder of God's justice and the consequences of rejecting His truth. It encourages believers to live with a sense of urgency, sharing the hope found in Christ (see John 3:16) while there is still opportunity for repentance. While the specific events of Revelation relate to end-time prophecy, the underlying principle of divine accountability for sin remains timeless. It calls us to reflect on our own lives and ensure we are living in alignment with God's will, trusting in His ultimate victory and the promise of a new heaven and new earth where there will be no more sorrow or pain.

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.

  • Revelation 11:14

    ¶ The second woe is past; [and], behold, the third woe cometh quickly.

  • Revelation 8:13

    And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound!

  • 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.

  • Revelation 9:13

    ¶ And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God,

  • Revelation 9:21

    Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.
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