King James Version

What Does Revelation 22:11 Mean?

Revelation 22:11 in the King James Version says “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, l...” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.”

Revelation 22:11 · KJV

Context

9

Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God.

10

And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand.

11

He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.

12

And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

13

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.

Read Revelation 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse presents the sobering reality that choices have consequences that become fixed. The repetition emphasizes permanence—the unjust continues in injustice, the righteous in righteousness. This isn't fatalism but recognition that character solidifies through choices. Reformed theology sees this as describing final judgment's result—the impenitent are confirmed in sin, the righteous in holiness. The present-tense 'let him be' doesn't encourage sin but recognizes that persistent rejection or acceptance of Christ produces permanent states. The time for change ends at death or Christ's return.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient legal declarations of 'let it be so' finalized judgments. This pronouncement warns that opportunity for repentance is limited. First-century believers facing persecution needed encouragement that their righteous choices were establishing permanent character, while persecutors' evil would lead to permanent judgment. The warning motivated urgent evangelism before the door closed.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the recognition that character becomes permanent motivate you toward present holiness and evangelistic urgency?
  2. What does this verse teach about the reality of eternal destinies being fixed—is there biblical support for post-mortem chances for salvation?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 19 words
ὁ1 of 19
G3588

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

ἀδικησάτω2 of 19

“He that is unjust”

G91

to be unjust, i.e., (actively) do wrong (morally, socially or physically)

ἀδικησάτω3 of 19

“He that is unjust”

G91

to be unjust, i.e., (actively) do wrong (morally, socially or physically)

ἔτι4 of 19

“still”

G2089

"yet," still (of time or degree)

καὶ5 of 19

“and”

G2532

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

ὁ6 of 19
G3588

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

ῥυπωσάτω7 of 19

“he which is filthy”

G4510

to soil, i.e., (intransitively) to become dirty (morally)

ῥυπωσάτω8 of 19

“he which is filthy”

G4510

to soil, i.e., (intransitively) to become dirty (morally)

ἔτι9 of 19

“still”

G2089

"yet," still (of time or degree)

καὶ10 of 19

“and”

G2532

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

ὁ11 of 19
G3588

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

δίκαιος12 of 19

“he that is righteous”

G1342

equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)

δικαιωθήτω13 of 19

“let him be righteous”

G1344

to render (i.e., show or regard as) just or innocent

ἔτι14 of 19

“still”

G2089

"yet," still (of time or degree)

καὶ15 of 19

“and”

G2532

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

ὁ16 of 19
G3588

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

ἅγιος17 of 19

“he that is holy”

G40

sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)

ἁγιασθήτω18 of 19

“let him be holy”

G37

to make holy, i.e., (ceremonially) purify or consecrate; (mentally) to venerate

ἔτι19 of 19

“still”

G2089

"yet," still (of time or degree)

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 22:11 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 22:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Daniel 12:10Proverbs 4:18Ezekiel 3:272 Timothy 3:13Matthew 15:14Job 17:9

Test Your Knowledge

Revelation 22 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterRevelation Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Revelation 22 with CommentaryAll Revelation ChaptersComplete Revelation QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes