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Revelation 20 entire chapter with all greek words
- Lady Janice
- Dec 30, 2024
- 11 min read
In the Book of Revelation's final chapters, the story takes a deep dive into Greek text. It reveals symbolic images, prophetic visions, and deep theological ideas. What secrets are hidden in Revelation 20's original Greek words? How can we uncover their true meaning? Let's explore this crucial chapter together, diving into Greek terms and their role in understanding the end times.
Key Takeaways
Revelation 20 mentions "χίλια ἔτη" (thousand years) several times, showing a key prophetic time frame.
The term "ἄγγελον" (angel) in Revelation 20:1 introduces a heavenly messenger with a big role.
The words "δράκοντα" (dragon), "ὄφις" (serpent), "διάβολος" (devil), and "Σατανᾶς" (Satan) show the spiritual enemy's nature.
The mention of "ἔθνη" (nations) in Revelation 20:3 points to a global setting for these events.
The "πεπελεκισμένων" (beheaded) people in Revelation 20:4 represent the sacrifice and commitment of believers.
The Angel with the Key to the Abyss (Abyssos)
In the book of Revelation, a key figure appears. An angel comes from heaven with the key to the Abyss (κλεῖν τῆς ἀβύσσου) and a great chain (ἅλυσιν μεγάλην). This angel has divine power and is crucial in the story's symbolism and Greek terminology.
Understanding the Greek term "κλεῖν τῆς ἀβύσσου" (Key of the Abyss)
The term "κλεῖν τῆς ἀβύσσου" means the key of the bottomless pit. It's a symbol of control over evil. The angel holds this key, showing divine power to keep evil forces in the abyssos in check.
The symbolism of "ἅλυσιν μεγάλην" (Great Chain)
The angel also has a great chain (ἅλυσιν μεγάλην). This biblical image shows divine power to bind evil. It's about controlling the serpent and dragon (Revelation 20:1-2).
"Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hand the key to the Abyss and a great chain." (Revelation 20:1)
This angel's arrival, with the key and chain, highlights the abyssos and Greek terminology. It shows the importance of these symbols in the story.
The Binding of Satan (Satanas)
Revelation 20 says the satanas (Satan) is bound for a thousand years. The Greek word "ἔδησεν" (bound) shows Satan's power is fully stopped. This stops satanas from tricking the ethne (nations) until the millennium ends.
An angel comes down from heaven with a desmios (great chain). He grabs the satanas, ties him up, and throws him into the abyssos (abyss). There, he stays for a thousand years. This lets a time of peace and wealth come, with Christ and his followers in charge.
"Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding the key of the abyss and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold of the satanas, the serpent of old, who is the diabolos (devil) and satanas, and bound him for a thousand years." (Revelation 20:1-2)
The binding of satanas is a key event in the prophecy. It shows good winning over evil and Christ's kingdom starting on Earth. This thousand-year period, known as the "Millennium," is a time of peace, justice, and Christ's rule with his followers.
Ancient Serpent and Dragon (Drakōn) in Greek Context
The Book of Revelation, written in biblical Greek, uses two terms for the enemy of God and His people. "δράκοντα" (drakōn) means "dragon," and "ὄφις ὁ ἀρχαῖος" (ophis ho archaios) means "ancient serpent." These names link this being to the Genesis story, showing its long history as a deceiver.
Etymology of "δράκοντα" in Biblical Greek
The word "δράκοντα" (drakōn) is found nine times in the New Testament, all in Revelation. It comes from ancient Greek mythology, describing a monstrous, serpent-like creature. In Revelation, this "δράκοντα" is called both "Διάβολος" (Diabolos, "Devil") and "Ὁ Σατανᾶς" (Ho Satanas, "Satan").
Symbolic meaning of "ὄφις ὁ ἀρχαῖος" (Ancient Serpent)
The phrase "ὄφις ὁ ἀρχαῖος" (ophis ho archaios, "ancient serpent") describes the enemy in Revelation 12:9 and 20:2. It connects this character to the serpent in the Garden of Eden. This serpent tempted Eve and introduced sin into the world. The text highlights the ancient and deceitful nature of this spiritual foe.
"And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him." (Revelation 12:9)
The Book of Revelation vividly portrays Satan's role as the ancient adversary of God and humanity. It shows his influence from the start of creation.
revelation 20 entire chapter with all greek words
The 20th chapter of the Book of Revelation is a deep dive into biblical eschatology. It explores the Greek text to reveal its rich theological layers. This chapter gives us a detailed look at the millennial reign of Christ, the binding of Satan, and the final judgment.
The Greek text of Revelation 20 is filled with exciting terms that add depth to the story. The first verse shows an angel ἐκράτησεν τὸν δράκοντα (seizing the dragon). This is a vivid picture of Satan being bound, called the ὁ ὄφις ὁ ἀρχαῖος (the ancient serpent). The angel then ἔβαλεν αὐτὸν εἰς τὴν ἄβυσσον (threw him into the abyss), showing evil's confinement.
The Greek text of Revelation 20 uses χίλια ἔτη (thousand years) five times. This highlights the importance of this millennial reign.
The chapter talks about the πρώτη ἀνάστασις (first resurrection). This concept has sparked a lot of debate and study.
The mention of θρόνους (thrones) three times shows this period's regal nature. The faithful will βασιλεύσουσιν (reign) with Christ.
This detailed look at the Greek text in Revelation 20 offers a deep insight into biblical exegesis and theology. By exploring the Greek terms, we understand the symbolic and prophetic meaning of this key chapter in the Book of Revelation.
The Millennial Reign (Chilias)
The book of Revelation paints a vivid picture of the future. It shows the church's key role in the Millennial Reign. The word "χίλια" (chilia), meaning 'a thousand', is used six times in Revelation 20:4-6. This highlights the importance of this thousand-year period.
2 Peter 3:8 also mentions a thousand years as being like a day in Heaven. This makes the thousand-year period even more significant.
The church will sit on thrones and rule with Christ for a thousand years. This is like a Jewish wedding, where the couple is treated as royalty. It suggests the Millennial Reign might happen in Heaven, mirroring the traditional Jewish wedding setting.
Analysis of "χίλια ἔτη" (Thousand Years)
The church plays a crucial role in the Millennial Reign. It will judge, including angels, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 6:3. This connection between the church's role in the wedding and judgment shows how important this time is.
The concept of "βασιλεύσουσιν" (They will reign)
The verb "βασιλεύσουσιν" (they will reign) in Revelation 20:4-6 shows believers' active role in the millennial kingdom. During this time, Satan's influence on the nations will be absent. He is bound and confined.
"The interpretation that the Millennial Reign is the church's wedding day implies that the Millennial Reign likely takes place in Heaven, reflecting the traditional Jewish wedding setting at the groom's father's house."
The First Resurrection (Anastasis)
The idea of "ἡ ἀνάστασις ἡ πρώτη" (the first resurrection) is key in Revelation's end-time events. It's different from the general resurrection and lets people reign with Christ for a thousand years.
The word "ἀνάστασις" (anastasis) shows up forty-one times in the New Testament. Thirty-nine of these are about a bodily resurrection. In Revelation 20:5, the first resurrection is seen as a real, physical rise of those who died for Jesus.
But, the meaning of the "first resurrection" is still up for debate. Some think it's about a spiritual awakening or feeling God's presence, not just a physical rise. This mix-up in meaning is important to grasp the anastasis idea fully.
The book of Revelation's structure is complex, with chapter 20 starting a new cycle. This cycle includes events from Christ's first coming. This makes understanding the "first resurrection" and its place in the end times even harder.
How one sees the "first resurrection" in Revelation 20 depends on their views on the millennium. Premillennialists and amillennialists have different ideas about this important anastasis event.
"Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years."- Revelation 20:6
The Role of Death (Thanatos) and Hades
In ancient Greece, "Hades" was seen as the unseen world. It was where spirits of the dead lived. The Bible calls it "Hades" or "Sheol," meaning the place of the unrighteous dead or just the grave.
Hades was seen as a god of the underworld, ruling over the dead. He was often shown with keys to keep souls locked up. Thanatos, or Death, was also a spirit being. He was seen as a god of both physical and spiritual death.
Greek Terminology for "θάνατος" and "ᾅδης"
In the Book of Revelation, Death and Hades are together because of their roles. Death is the killer, and Hades takes the souls. The Apostle John said Jesus took over Hades, having the keys of death and Hades.
Theological Implications in Original Greek
The Greek words "θάνατος" (death) and "ᾅδης" (Hades) are seen as beings that give up their dead for judgment. They are key in the final judgment scene. They are thrown into the lake of fire, showing death's power over humanity ends.
The Book of Revelation gives us a deep look at the roles of thanatos and hadēs in Greek eschatology. By understanding these terms and their meanings, we can see the biblical story and the victory of life over death more clearly.
Satan's Release and Final Deception
After a thousand years, the satanic deception starts again. Revelation 20 tells us about Satan (ὁ Σατανᾶς) being released from prison. This sets the stage for his final battle with the saints.
The devil, now free, aims to deceive the nations. He targets Gog and Magog specifically. These figures symbolize a global alliance that Satan will lead into an apocalyptic battle.
The devil is known for his deception. This is a big theme in the Book of Revelation. Verse 8 says Satan will "go out to deceive the nations that are at the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them for battle."
The release of Satan and his deception of the nations show the ongoing fight between good and evil. The satanic deception leads to the apocalyptic battle with Gog and Magog. This dramatic sequence highlights God's sovereignty and the saints' ultimate victory.
The Great White Throne Judgment
The Bible's book of Revelation talks about a key event - the Great White Throne Judgment. This scene is called "κρίμα" in Greek, meaning a final decision of guilt or innocence. A huge, white throne appears, and all the dead, big or small, are called to be judged by their actions.
The Book of Life is central to this judgment. It lists the names of the righteous. Those not in this book face the Lake of Fire, a second death, forever separated from God. This judgment shows how serious our choices are and the big consequences for everyone.
Greek Terminology for Judgment
The Greek word "κρίμα" is key to understanding the Great White Throne Judgment. It means a final verdict, covering both the act of judging and the judgment itself. This word highlights the finality and divine power of this event.
"Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. From his presence earth and sky fled away, and no place was found for them." (Revelation 20:11, ESV)
The image of the earth and sky running away shows how serious this judgment is. It shows the all-powerful one judging all of humanity.
The Great White Throne Judgment reminds us of our ultimate responsibility. It's a call to all to look at our lives and follow God's plan of salvation.
The Lake of Fire and Second Death
The book of Revelation vividly shows the final judgment. It reveals the eschatological punishment for the unrighteous. The Greek words used offer deep insights into these concepts.
The λίμνη τοῦ πυρός (lake of fire) is the ultimate place for θάνατος (Death), ᾅδης (Hades), and those not in the βίβλος τῆς ζωῆς (Book of Life). It is called the ὁ θάνατος ὁ δεύτερός (the second death). This marks the eternal final judgment and separation from God.
"Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire." (Revelation 20:14)
The Greek words in this passage are full of meaning. The verb εβληθησαν (were thrown) shows God's judgment and finality. The noun λίμνην (lake) creates a strong image of inescapable eschatological punishment. The phrase ὁ θάνατος ὁ δεύτερός (the second death) highlights the seriousness of this judgment. It shows the end of both physical and spiritual death.
The Greek terminology in this section vividly describes the fate of those who reject God's grace. The lake of fire symbolizes the ultimate separation from God. It's a reminder of the importance of faith and living righteously. This passage is a call to repentance and a warning of the final judgment that awaits all of humanity.
Conclusion
The study of Revelation 20 shows us a deep story of the end times. It's filled with symbols and important teachings. This chapter talks about Satan being bound, a thousand-year reign, the first resurrection, and the final judgment.
These events are very important for the future of people and the world. The Greek words and how the story is told help us understand these visions better. By looking into the biblical exegesis and Greek analysis, we get a deeper Revelation interpretation.
This understanding can help us grow in our faith. It shapes how we see the world's future. As Christians, studying Revelation 20 encourages us to stay true to God. It warns us to watch out for Satan's tricks and to look forward to Christ's kingdom.
The Bible shows us a clear victory of good over evil. It talks about the return of justice and the salvation of God's people. By diving into the biblical exegesis, Greek analysis, and Revelation interpretation, we prepare for these promises to come true.
FAQ
What is the significance of the Greek text in Revelation 20?
Revelation 20 offers a detailed Greek text with an English translation. It helps us dive deep into the language and meaning of the prophecy. Key words like "ἄγγελος" (angel), "ἄβυσσος" (abyss), and "χίλια ἔτη" (thousand years) are crucial for understanding.
What does the Greek term "κλεῖν τῆς ἀβύσσου" represent?
"κλεῖν τῆς ἀβύσσου" means the key of the bottomless pit. An angel comes down from heaven with this key and a "ἅλυσιν μεγάλην" (great chain). This shows God's power over evil and Satan's restraint.
How is Satan (Satanas) described in the Greek text?
The Greek text calls Satan "ὁ Σατανᾶς" (Satan) and "δράκοντα" (dragon). It also uses "ὄφις ὁ ἀρχαῖος" (ancient serpent). These names link to the Genesis story, highlighting Satan's role as a deceiver.
What is the significance of the "χίλια ἔτη" (thousand years) in Revelation 20?
"χίλια ἔτη" (thousand years) is mentioned six times in this chapter. It talks about Christ's reign with his saints. The verb "βασιλεύσουσιν" (they will reign) shows believers' active role in this kingdom, free from Satan's influence.
What is the "ἡ ἀνάστασις ἡ πρώτη" (the first resurrection) in the Greek text?
"ἡ ἀνάστασις ἡ πρώτη" (the first resurrection) is about the revival of those who were beheaded for Jesus. This resurrection is special, tied to reigning with Christ during the millennium.
How are "θάνατος" (death) and "ᾅδης" (Hades) described in the Greek text?
"θάνατος" (death) and "ᾅδης" (Hades) are seen as entities that give up their dead for judgment. They are key in the final judgment scene. Eventually, they are cast into the lake of fire, ending death's power.
What is the significance of the "λίμνη τοῦ πυρός" (lake of fire) in the Greek text?
The "λίμνη τοῦ πυρός" (lake of fire) is where Death, Hades, and those not in the Book of Life go. It's called "ὁ θάνατος ὁ δεύτερός" (the second death). This represents eternal separation from God, the ultimate fate for unbelievers.
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