And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron; and the sound of their wings [was] as the sound of chariots of many horses running to battle.
And {G2532} they had {G2192} breastplates {G2382}, as it were {G5613} breastplates {G2382} of iron {G4603}; and {G2532} the sound {G5456} of their {G846} wings {G4420} was as {G5613} the sound {G5456} of chariots {G716} of many {G4183} horses {G2462} running {G5143} to {G1519} battle {G4171}.
Their chests were like iron breastplates, and the sound their wings made was like the roar of many horses and chariots rushing into battle.
They also had thoraxes like breastplates of iron, and the sound of their wings was like the roar of many horses and chariots rushing into battle.
And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron; and the sound of their wings was as the sound of chariots, of many horses rushing to war.
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Joel 2:5
Like the noise of chariots on the tops of mountains shall they leap, like the noise of a flame of fire that devoureth the stubble, as a strong people set in battle array. -
Joel 2:8
Neither shall one thrust another; they shall walk every one in his path: and [when] they fall upon the sword, they shall not be wounded. -
Nahum 2:4
The chariots shall rage in the streets, they shall justle one against another in the broad ways: they shall seem like torches, they shall run like the lightnings. -
Nahum 2:5
He shall recount his worthies: they shall stumble in their walk; they shall make haste to the wall thereof, and the defence shall be prepared. -
Job 40:18
His bones [are as] strong pieces of brass; his bones [are] like bars of iron. -
Revelation 9:17
And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of the horses [were] as the heads of lions; and out of their mouths issued fire and smoke and brimstone. -
Job 39:25
He saith among the trumpets, Ha, ha; and he smelleth the battle afar off, the thunder of the captains, and the shouting.
Revelation 9:9 continues the vivid description of the bizarre, locust-like creatures unleashed during the fifth trumpet judgment. This verse focuses on their protective capabilities and the formidable sound of their advance, painting a picture of an unstoppable, terrifying force.
Context of Revelation 9:9
This verse is part of a detailed prophetic vision given to John, describing the fifth trumpet judgment. Following the release of these creatures from the bottomless pit in Revelation 9:1, the preceding verses (Revelation 9:7-8) have already detailed their appearance, noting their resemblance to warhorses, men, and women, with hair like women and teeth like lions. Verse 9 further elaborates on their military-like attributes, emphasizing their invulnerability and the terrifying noise they generate as they move. This entire passage describes a period of intense torment for those on Earth who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The KJV phrase "as it were breastplates of iron" uses the Greek phrase hos thoraxas siderous (ὡς θώρακας σιδηροῦς), which literally means "as breastplates iron." The use of "as it were" (hos) emphasizes the symbolic or descriptive nature of the vision, indicating that these are not literal iron plates but something that *resembles* their strength and protective quality. Similarly, "the sound of their wings" uses the Greek word phone (φωνή), which can mean voice, sound, or noise. Here, it vividly describes the terrifying auditory impact of their movement, likening it to the loud, rumbling sound of a cavalry charge, a familiar and fearsome image in ancient warfare.
Practical Application and Reflection
Revelation 9:9, while depicting a future apocalyptic event, offers profound spiritual insights. It underscores the seriousness of God's judgment and the unstoppable nature of His divine will. For believers, this verse serves as a reminder that God is sovereign over all creation, even over instruments of judgment. It encourages a deep reverence for God's power and justice, and a renewed urgency to heed the call to repentance and faith. For those who are sealed by God, there is comfort in knowing that they are protected from this torment, highlighting the importance of spiritual discernment and standing firm in faith amidst global turmoil. The imagery of an overwhelming, relentless force reminds us that God's judgments are not to be taken lightly, urging humanity to seek the grace offered through Jesus Christ before the day of wrath.