King James Version

What Does Revelation 21:27 Mean?

Revelation 21:27 in the King James Version says “And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a li... — study this verse from Revelation chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.

Revelation 21:27 · KJV


Context

25

And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there.

26

And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it.

27

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.... 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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

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 21:27 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 · 24 words
καὶ1 of 24

And

G2532

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

οὐ2 of 24
G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

μὴ3 of 24
G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

εἰσέλθῃ4 of 24

enter

G1525

to enter (literally or figuratively)

εἰς5 of 24

into

G1519

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

αὐτὴν6 of 24

it

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

πᾶν7 of 24

any thing

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

κοινοῦν,8 of 24

that defileth

G2840

to make (or consider) profane (ceremonially)

καὶ9 of 24

And

G2532

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

ποιοῦν10 of 24

whatsoever worketh

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

βδέλυγμα11 of 24

abomination

G946

a detestation, i.e., (specially) idolatry

καὶ12 of 24

And

G2532

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

ψεῦδος13 of 24

maketh a lie

G5579

a falsehood

εἰ14 of 24
G1487

if, whether, that, etc

μὴ15 of 24
G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

οἱ16 of 24
G3588

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

γεγραμμένοι17 of 24

they which are written

G1125

to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe

ἐν18 of 24

in

G1722

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

τῷ19 of 24
G3588

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

βιβλίῳ20 of 24

book

G975

a roll

τῆς21 of 24
G3588

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

ζωῆς22 of 24

of life

G2222

life (literally or figuratively)

τοῦ23 of 24
G3588

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

ἀρνίου24 of 24

the Lamb's

G721

a lambkin


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 21:27 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 21:27 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study