King James Version

What Does Revelation 4:3 Mean?

Revelation 4:3 in the King James Version says “And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in s...” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.”

Revelation 4:3 · King James Version

Context

1

After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter .

2

And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.

3

And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.

4

And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.

5

And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.

Read Revelation 4 full chapter

Commentaries4 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.... This verse from Revelation's vision of throne room of heaven - god's sovereignty, holiness, and worship 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 4:3 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?

Compare 4 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 18 words
καὶ1 of 18

“And”

G2532

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

ὁ2 of 18
G3588

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

καθήμενος3 of 18

“he that sat”

G2521

and ???? (to sit; akin to the base of g1476); to sit down; figuratively, to remain, reside

ἦν4 of 18

“was”

G2258

i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

ὅμοιος5 of 18

“like”

G3664

similar (in appearance or character)

ὁράσει6 of 18

“in sight”

G3706

the act of gazing, i.e., (externally) an aspect or (internally) an inspired appearance

λίθῳ7 of 18

“stone”

G3037

a stone (literally or figuratively)

ἰάσπιδι8 of 18

“a jasper”

G2393

"jasper", a gem

καὶ9 of 18

“And”

G2532

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

σαρδίνῳ·10 of 18

“a sardine”

G4555

sardine (g3037 being implied), i.e., a gem, so called

καὶ11 of 18

“And”

G2532

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

ἶρις12 of 18

“there was a rainbow”

G2463

a rainbow ("iris")

κυκλόθεν13 of 18

“round about”

G2943

from the circle, i.e., all around

τοῦ14 of 18
G3588

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

θρόνου15 of 18

“the throne”

G2362

a stately seat ("throne"); by implication, power or (concretely) a potentate

ὅμοιος16 of 18

“like”

G3664

similar (in appearance or character)

ὁράσει17 of 18

“in sight”

G3706

the act of gazing, i.e., (externally) an aspect or (internally) an inspired appearance

σμαραγδίνῳ18 of 18

“unto an emerald”

G4664

consisting of emerald

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 4:3 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 4:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ezekiel 1:28Genesis 9:13-16Revelation 21:11Revelation 10:1Ezekiel 28:13Ezekiel 1:26

Test Your Knowledge

Revelation 4 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterRevelation Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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