King James Version

What Does Revelation 21:13 Mean?

Revelation 21:13 in the King James Version says “On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.”

Revelation 21:13 · KJV

Context

11

Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;

12

And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:

13

On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.

14

And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

15

And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof.

Read Revelation 21 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.... This verse from Revelation's vision of new heaven, new earth, new jerusalem - eternal state, god dwelling with his people 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 21:13 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
ἀπὸ1 of 16

“On”

G575

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

ἀνατολῆς2 of 16

“the east”

G395

a rising of light, i.e., dawn (figuratively); by implication, the east (also in plural)

πυλῶνες3 of 16

“gates”

G4440

a gate-way, door-way of a building or city; by implication, a portal or vestibule

τρεῖς4 of 16

“three”

G5140

"three"

ἀπὸ5 of 16

“On”

G575

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

βοῤῥᾶ6 of 16

“the north”

G1005

the north (properly, wind)

πυλῶνες7 of 16

“gates”

G4440

a gate-way, door-way of a building or city; by implication, a portal or vestibule

τρεῖς8 of 16

“three”

G5140

"three"

ἀπὸ9 of 16

“On”

G575

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

νότου10 of 16

“the south”

G3558

the south(-west) wind; by extension, the southern quarter itself

πυλῶνες11 of 16

“gates”

G4440

a gate-way, door-way of a building or city; by implication, a portal or vestibule

τρεῖς12 of 16

“three”

G5140

"three"

ἀπὸ13 of 16

“On”

G575

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

δυσμῶν14 of 16

“the west”

G1424

the sun-set, i.e., (by implication) the western region

πυλῶνες15 of 16

“gates”

G4440

a gate-way, door-way of a building or city; by implication, a portal or vestibule

τρεῖς16 of 16

“three”

G5140

"three"

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 21:13 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 21:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ezekiel 48:31-34

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