King James Version

What Does Revelation 15:5 Mean?

Revelation 15:5 in the King James Version says “And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened:” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened:”

Revelation 15:5 · KJV

Context

3

And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. saints: or, nations, or, ages

4

Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.

5

And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened:

6

And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.

7

And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened:... This verse from Revelation's vision of seven angels with seven plagues - completion of god's wrath, moses and lamb's song employs apocalyptic imagery rich with Old Testament allusions and symbolic meaning. The Greek text uses vivid apocalyptic language characteristic of Jewish prophetic literature, drawing heavily from Daniel, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Zechariah.

The symbolism must be interpreted within its first-century context while recognizing timeless spiritual realities. The imagery would resonate powerfully with persecuted believers facing Roman imperial cult worship, providing hope that despite present suffering, Christ reigns sovereign and will consummate His kingdom. The apocalyptic genre uses symbolic numbers (seven, twelve, 144,000), colors, beasts, and cosmic imagery to convey theological truth rather than photographic descriptions.

Christologically, Revelation consistently exalts Jesus as the victorious Lamb, the faithful witness, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Every vision ultimately points to Christ's supremacy, His finished redemptive work, and His certain return to judge the living and dead and establish the new creation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

John received this revelation circa AD 95 during Domitian's persecution, exiled on Patmos for his testimony. The seven churches of Asia Minor faced increasing pressure to participate in emperor worship and pagan religious practices. Refusal meant economic hardship, social ostracism, and potential martyrdom. Understanding this context illuminates Revelation's encouragement to faithful endurance.

The apocalyptic genre was familiar to first-century Jewish and Christian readers. Rather than newspaper-style predictions, apocalyptic literature uses symbolic imagery to reveal spiritual realities behind earthly events, encourage the faithful, warn the unfaithful, and assert God's ultimate sovereignty over history. Parallels with Daniel, Ezekiel, and intertestamental apocalyptic writings would help original readers decode the symbols.

Rome's imperial cult demanded worship of Caesar as divine, placing Christians in impossible situations—compromise their faith or face persecution. Revelation identifies Rome as "Babylon" and assures believers that despite appearances, the Lamb conquered through His death and resurrection, and all earthly kingdoms will submit to His reign.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Revelation 15:5 reveal God's character, particularly His sovereignty, holiness, and justice?
  2. What specific encouragement or warning does this verse offer for maintaining faithful Christian witness amid cultural pressure?
  3. How does this passage point to Christ's victory and the hope of new creation, and how should that shape your present priorities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 16 words
καὶ1 of 16

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

μετὰ2 of 16

“after”

G3326

properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)

ταῦτα3 of 16

“that”

G5023

these things

εἶδον4 of 16

“I looked”

G1492

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

καὶ5 of 16

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἰδού,6 of 16

“behold”

G2400

used as imperative lo!

ἠνοίγη7 of 16

“was opened”

G455

to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications)

ὁ8 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ναὸς9 of 16

“the temple”

G3485

a fane, shrine, temple

τῆς10 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

σκηνῆς11 of 16

“of the tabernacle”

G4633

a tent or cloth hut (literally or figuratively)

τοῦ12 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

μαρτυρίου13 of 16

“of the testimony”

G3142

something evidential, i.e., (genitive case) evidence given or (specially), the decalogue (in the sacred tabernacle)

ἐν14 of 16

“in”

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τῷ15 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

οὐρανῷ16 of 16

“heaven”

G3772

the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Revelation. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Revelation 15:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Revelation 15:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Revelation 11:19Numbers 1:50Matthew 27:51Exodus 38:21Numbers 1:53Exodus 25:21

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