King James Version
What Does Revelation 18:15 Mean?
“The merchants of these things, which were made rich by her, shall stand afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing,”
Context
13
And cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men. slaves: or, bodies
14
And the fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from thee, and all things which were dainty and goodly are departed from thee, and thou shalt find them no more at all.
15
The merchants of these things, which were made rich by her, shall stand afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing,
16
And saying, Alas, alas, that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls!
17
For in one hour so great riches is come to nought. And every shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade by sea, stood afar off,
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(15-17) **The merchants of these things . . .**—The description is resumed. The merchants stand like the kings (see Revelation 18:10) afar off, because of the fear of her torment, saying, “Woe! woe! (or, alas! alas!) the great city, because in one hour so great wealth was desolated.” The words of this lamentation are parallel to the lament of the kings, the only difference is characteristic—they bewail the sudden decay of the *wealth.* On the fine linen and purple, comp. Revelation 18:12, and Luke 16:19.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 18:15 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 18:15
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge