New Testament

Revelation 10:2

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

He held a small open scroll in his hand. He placed his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the earth.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And he had in his hand a little book open: and he set his right foot upon the sea, and his left foot on the earth,

What Revelation 10:2 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Revelation 10:2, an angel is depicted holding a small open scroll, symbolizing a message or revelation from God. The act of placing one foot on the sea and the other on the earth signifies authority over both realms, indicating that the message contained in the scroll is universal and applies to all creation. The scroll being open suggests that the contents are meant to be revealed and understood, emphasizing the importance of the message. This imagery conveys the idea that God's plans encompass all of humanity and the natural world, and that His authority extends over everything. The angel's posture also suggests a moment of proclamation, as if he is about to announce something significant. This scene invites readers to pay attention to the unfolding events in the book of Revelation, as they are part of God's ultimate plan for the world.

How to apply Revelation 10:2 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize God's authority over our lives and the world around us. It reminds us to be attentive to His messages and revelations, understanding that they are meant for our guidance and growth. We should seek to align our lives with His will and purpose.

Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of the angel Gabriel, shining with light, appearing to Mary in her home in Nazareth

Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Mary, Jesus' mother

An old color photograph of Bethlehem on a ridge above terraces of olive trees.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Bethlehem

David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Revelation 10:2

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Revelation 10:2

At a Glance — the Book of Revelation

Author
John the apostle
Written
Around AD 95
Genre
Apocalyptic prophecy
Original Audience
The seven churches of Asia Minor

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Revelation 10:2 mean?

Revelation 10:2 describes an angel holding a small open scroll, symbolizing a divine message. The angel's stance, with one foot on the sea and the other on the earth, signifies God's authority over all creation and the universal relevance of the message contained in the scroll.

What is the significance of the scroll in Revelation 10:2?

The scroll in Revelation 10:2 represents a message from God that is meant to be revealed and understood. Its open state indicates that the contents are accessible and important for all of humanity, emphasizing God's plans for the world.

What does the angel's posture in Revelation 10:2 signify?

The angel's posture, with one foot on the sea and the other on the earth, signifies his authority over both realms. This imagery suggests a moment of proclamation, indicating that the message he carries is significant and relevant to all creation.

How does Revelation 10:2 relate to God's authority?

Revelation 10:2 illustrates God's sovereignty by showing an angel with authority over the sea and the earth. This emphasizes that God's message and plans encompass all aspects of life and creation.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.