King James Version

What Does Revelation 9:21 Mean?

Revelation 9:21 in the King James Version says “Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.”

Revelation 9:21 · KJV

Context

For their power is in their mouth, and in their tails: for their tails were like unto serpents, and had heads, and with them they do hurt.

And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk:

21

Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary

Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.... This verse from Revelation's vision of fifth and sixth trumpets - demonic torment and massive army, unrepentant humanity 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

How does Revelation 9:21 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 · 22 words

καὶ1 of 22

“Neither”

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

οὐ2 of 22

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

μετενόησαν3 of 22

“repented they”

to think differently or afterwards, i.e., reconsider (morally, feel compunction)

ἐκ4 of 22

“of”

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

τῶν5 of 22

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

φόνων6 of 22

“murders”

murder

αὐτῶν7 of 22

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

οὔτε8 of 22

“nor”

not too, i.e., neither or nor; by analogy, not even

ἐκ9 of 22

“of”

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

τῶν10 of 22

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

φαρμακειῶν11 of 22

“sorceries”

medication ("pharmacy"), i.e., (by extension) magic (literally or figuratively)

αὐτῶν12 of 22

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

οὔτε13 of 22

“nor”

not too, i.e., neither or nor; by analogy, not even

ἐκ14 of 22

“of”

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

τῆς15 of 22

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

πορνείας16 of 22

“fornication”

harlotry (including adultery and incest); figuratively, idolatry

αὐτῶν17 of 22

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

οὔτε18 of 22

“nor”

not too, i.e., neither or nor; by analogy, not even

ἐκ19 of 22

“of”

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

τῶν20 of 22

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

κλεμμάτων21 of 22

“thefts”

stealing (properly, the thing stolen, but used of the act)

αὐτῶν22 of 22

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

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 9:21 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 9:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Revelation 21:8 Revelation 17:5 2 Corinthians 12:21 Revelation 22:15 Revelation 17:2 Revelation 18:3

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