Keraia
Revelation 6

Revelation 6:11

The Fifth Seal: The Martyrs · Revelation 6:9–11
Read Revelation 6

Translations

Modern
Then each of them was given a white robe and told to rest a little while longer until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers, were killed, just as they had been killed.
Traditional
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.
Literal
And to each of them was given a white robe, and it was said to them that they will rest yet a little time, until their fellow servants would also be fulfilled, and their brothers, those being about to be killed even as they.
Latin
Et datæ sunt illis singulæ stolæ albæ: et dictum est illis ut requiescerent adhuc tempus modicum donec compleantur conservi eorum, et fratres eorum, qui interficiendi sunt sicut et illi.

Original

Greek
English
Then each of them was given a white robe and told to rest a little while longer until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers, were killed, just as they had been killed.

Notes

Revelation 6:11

  • A white robe symbolizes the victory of the martyrs and God's complete acceptance.

  • told to rest: Death is a state of rest (compare John 11:11–12) where martyrs await God's justice.

  • the full number: Only God knows how many Christians will be killed because of their faith before the end. In his complete authority and power, God will achieve his purposes through his martyred children and will vindicate them at the right time.

  • brothers: The Greek word adelphoi refers to both male and female members of the same family.

Revelation 6:9–11

In contrast to the world's destructive ways (Revelation 6:1–8), the fifth seal introduces Christian martyrs who ask how God intends to deal with evil.

Revelation 6:1–16:21

Three sets of seven judgments (the seals, trumpets, and bowls) are central to Revelation. Some believe these judgments happen in a sequence, one after another, totaling twenty-one judgments.

However, it is more likely that the relationship is cyclical, similar to other Jewish apocalyptic writings (compare Daniel 2, 7, 8, 11). Each set of judgments becomes more intense and adds new details about God's judgment on those who rebel against him. In this view, all three cycles end at the same time, with the return of Christ.

Revelation 6:1–8:1

The Lamb breaks the seven seals to reveal the significance of history from God’s point of view.

Theme notes and profiles

The Purpose of the Judgments Visions

Glossary

Book of Revelation Place of the Dead Temple

Topics

Colors: Scriptures Employing the Symbol Martyrdom: General Scriptures Concerning Martyrdom: Reward of Persecution of the Righteous Robe of Righteousness Robes Titles and Names of Saints: Fellow-Servants