Revelation 12:2

And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.

And {G2532} she being {G2192} with {G1722} child {G1064} cried {G2896}, travailing in birth {G5605}, and {G2532} pained {G928} to be delivered {G5088}.

She was pregnant and about to give birth, and she screamed in the agony of labor.

She was pregnant and crying out in the pain and agony of giving birth.

and she was with child; and she crieth out, travailing in birth, and in pain to be delivered.

Commentary

Context of Revelation 12:2

Revelation chapter 12 introduces a dramatic vision central to understanding the cosmic conflict between good and evil. Verse 2 describes a mysterious woman, first seen in Revelation 12:1, as "with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered." This woman is widely interpreted as representing Israel, from whom the Messiah would come, or more broadly, the faithful people of God throughout history. The child she is about to deliver is clearly identified later in verse 5 as the male child who is to rule all nations, signifying Jesus Christ. This verse sets the stage for the intense spiritual warfare described in the subsequent verses, highlighting the struggle involved in the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Messianic Anticipation and Birth: The central theme is the imminent birth of the Messiah. The woman's travail underscores the long period of waiting and suffering that preceded the first coming of Jesus Christ, a hope deeply rooted in Old Testament prophecy, such as Isaiah 7:14 and Micah 5:2.
  • Suffering and Spiritual Conflict: The "pained to be delivered" aspect symbolizes the intense spiritual and physical suffering endured by Israel and God's people throughout history as they awaited and prepared for the Messiah's arrival, and as they faced opposition from the forces of evil. This pain reflects the cosmic struggle against the "dragon" introduced in Revelation 12:3, who sought to thwart God's plan.
  • Divine Purpose Amidst Tribulation: Despite the agony and travail, the verse implies the inevitability of the birth, reinforcing the idea that God's sovereign plan will unfold regardless of opposition. The pain is part of a purposeful process leading to the ultimate triumph of Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "travailing in birth" is ōdinō (ὠδίνω), which literally means "to have birth pains" or "to be in labor." It vividly conveys the intense, agonizing contractions experienced during childbirth. This term is used metaphorically in other parts of the New Testament to describe intense suffering or the painful anticipation of significant events, such as the groaning of creation in Romans 8:22 or the difficulties preceding Christ's return. The KJV's "pained to be delivered" further emphasizes the severity and distress of this spiritual and historical labor.

Practical Application

Revelation 12:2 offers several timeless insights for believers today:

  • Endurance in Hope: Just as the woman endured painful travail for a glorious outcome, believers are called to endure suffering and hardship with hope, knowing that God is working out His redemptive purposes. Our current struggles may be part of a larger divine plan, leading to greater joy and fulfillment, much like Jesus' analogy of birth pains turning to joy in John 16:21.
  • Awareness of Spiritual Conflict: The verse highlights that the coming of Christ was not without opposition. Similarly, believers should be aware of the ongoing spiritual battle against evil forces. Understanding this provides context for the challenges faced in spreading the Gospel and living a faithful life.
  • Confidence in God's Sovereignty: Despite the pain and struggle, the birth was assured. This reminds us that God's ultimate victory and the fulfillment of His promises are certain, providing comfort and assurance even in turbulent times.
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Cross-References

  • Galatians 4:19 (5 votes)

    ¶ My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,

  • Revelation 12:4 (5 votes)

    And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.

  • John 16:21 (5 votes)

    A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world.

  • Galatians 4:27 (4 votes)

    For it is written, Rejoice, [thou] barren that bearest not; break forth and cry, thou that travailest not: for the desolate hath many more children than she which hath an husband.

  • Isaiah 53:11 (4 votes)

    He shall see of the travail of his soul, [and] shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.

  • Micah 5:3 (4 votes)

    Therefore will he give them up, until the time [that] she which travaileth hath brought forth: then the remnant of his brethren shall return unto the children of Israel.

  • Isaiah 66:7 (4 votes)

    Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child.