King James Version

What Does Revelation 4:7 Mean?

Revelation 4:7 in the King James Version says “And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the ...” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.”

Revelation 4:7 · KJV

Context

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.

And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.

7

And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.

And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was , and is , and is to come . rest: Gr. have no rest

And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever,

Read Revelation 4 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary

And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.... 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

How does Revelation 4:7 reveal God's character, particularly His sovereignty, holiness, and justice?
What specific encouragement or warning does this verse offer for maintaining faithful Christian witness amid cultural pressure?
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 · 29 words

καὶ1 of 29

“And”

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

τὸ2 of 29

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

ζῷον3 of 29

“beast”

a live thing, i.e., an animal

τὸ4 of 29

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

πρῶτον5 of 29

“the first”

foremost (in time, place, order or importance)

ὅμοιον6 of 29

“like”

similar (in appearance or character)

λέοντι7 of 29

“a lion”

a "lion"

καὶ8 of 29

“And”

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

τὸ9 of 29

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

δεύτερον10 of 29

“the second”

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

ζῷον11 of 29

“beast”

a live thing, i.e., an animal

ὅμοιον12 of 29

“like”

similar (in appearance or character)

μόσχῳ13 of 29

“a calf”

a young bullock

καὶ14 of 29

“And”

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

τὸ15 of 29

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

τρίτον16 of 29

“the third”

third; neuter (as noun) a third part, or (as adverb) a (or the) third time, thirdly

ζῷον17 of 29

“beast”

a live thing, i.e., an animal

ἔχον18 of 29

“had”

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

τὸ19 of 29

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

πρόσωπον20 of 29

“a face”

the front (as being towards view), i.e., the countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person

ὡς21 of 29

“as”

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

ἄνθρωπος22 of 29

“a man”

man-faced, i.e., a human being

καὶ23 of 29

“And”

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

τὸ24 of 29

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

τέταρτον25 of 29

“the fourth”

fourth

ζῷον26 of 29

“beast”

a live thing, i.e., an animal

ὅμοιον27 of 29

“like”

similar (in appearance or character)

ἀετῷ28 of 29

“eagle”

an eagle (from its wind-like flight)

πετωμένῳ29 of 29

“a flying”

to fly

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 4:7 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 4:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ezekiel 10:14 Ezekiel 1:10 Ezekiel 10:21 Ezekiel 1:8 Daniel 7:4 Revelation 4:6

Test Your Knowledge

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

Continue Your Study

Read Revelation 4 with Commentary All Revelation Chapters Complete Revelation Quiz Bible Characters Nave's Topical Bible All Bible Quizzes