King James Version

What Does Revelation 6:13 Mean?

Revelation 6:13 in the King James Version says “And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a might...” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. untimely figs: or, green figs”

Revelation 6:13 · KJV

Context

11

And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

12

And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood;

13

And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. untimely figs: or, green figs

14

And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.

15

And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;

Read Revelation 6 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.... This verse from Revelation's vision of seven seals - god's judgments on rebellious earth, cry of martyrs 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 6:13 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 · 19 words
καὶ1 of 19

“And”

G2532

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

οἱ2 of 19
G3588

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

ἀστέρες3 of 19

“the stars”

G792

a star (as strown over the sky), literally or figuratively

τοῦ4 of 19
G3588

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

οὐρανοῦ5 of 19

“of heaven”

G3772

the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)

ἔπεσαν6 of 19

“fell”

G4098

to fall (literally or figuratively)

εἰς7 of 19

“unto”

G1519

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

τὴν8 of 19
G3588

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

γῆν9 of 19

“the earth”

G1093

soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)

ὡς10 of 19

“even as”

G5613

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

συκῆ11 of 19

“a fig tree”

G4808

a fig-tree

βάλλει12 of 19

“casteth”

G906

to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense)

τοὺς13 of 19
G3588

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

ὀλύνθους14 of 19

“untimely figs”

G3653

an unripe (because out of season) fig

αὐτῆς15 of 19
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

ὑπὸ16 of 19

“of”

G5259

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

μεγάλου17 of 19

“a mighty”

G3173

big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)

ἀνέμου18 of 19

“wind”

G417

wind; (plural) by implication, (the four) quarters (of the earth)

σειομένη19 of 19

“when she is shaken”

G4579

to rock (vibrate, properly, sideways or to and fro), i.e., (generally) to agitate (in any direction; cause to tremble); figuratively, to throw into a

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 6:13 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 6:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 34:4Matthew 24:29Revelation 9:1Revelation 8:10-12Daniel 8:10Ezekiel 32:7

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