King James Version

What Does Revelation 19:3 Mean?

Revelation 19:3 in the King James Version says “And again they said, Alleluia. And her smoke rose up for ever and ever.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And again they said, Alleluia. And her smoke rose up for ever and ever.”

Revelation 19:3 · KJV

Context

1

And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God:

2

For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand.

3

And again they said, Alleluia. And her smoke rose up for ever and ever.

4

And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen; Alleluia.

5

And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great.

Read Revelation 19 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And again they said, Alleluia. And her smoke rose up for ever and ever.... This verse from Revelation's vision of hallelujah chorus, marriage supper, christ's return - final victory, word of god rides forth 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 19:3 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 · 14 words
καὶ1 of 14

“And”

G2532

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

δεύτερον2 of 14

“again”

G1208

(ordinal) second (in time, place, or rank; also adverb)

εἴρηκαν3 of 14

“they said”

G2046

an alternate for g2036 in certain tenses; to utter, i.e., speak or say

Ἁλληλουϊά·4 of 14

“Alleluia”

G239

praise ye jah!, an adoring exclamation

καὶ5 of 14

“And”

G2532

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

ὁ6 of 14
G3588

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

καπνὸς7 of 14

“smoke”

G2586

smoke

αὐτῆς8 of 14

“her”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ἀναβαίνει9 of 14

“rose up”

G305

to go up (literally or figuratively)

εἰς10 of 14

“for”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τοὺς11 of 14
G3588

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

αἰώνων12 of 14

“and ever”

G165

properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)

τῶν13 of 14
G3588

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

αἰώνων14 of 14

“and ever”

G165

properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)

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 19:3 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 19:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 34:10Revelation 18:18Revelation 14:11Revelation 18:9Genesis 19:28Jude 1:7

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