New Testament
Revelation 11:8
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Their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city — the one symbolically called Sodom and Egypt — where our Lord was crucified.
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And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.
What Revelation 11:8 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 11:8, the verse describes a scene where the bodies of two witnesses lie in the streets of a significant city, referred to as Sodom and Egypt. This symbolic naming suggests a place characterized by moral decay and oppression, contrasting with the holiness of Christ. The mention of where our Lord was crucified indicates that this city is Jerusalem, highlighting the spiritual corruption that has taken root there. The imagery of dead bodies signifies the rejection of God's messengers and the consequences of turning away from divine truth. This passage serves as a stark reminder of the spiritual battles faced by believers and the ultimate triumph of God's justice, even in the face of persecution and disbelief.
How to apply Revelation 11:8 to your life
This verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even when facing rejection or persecution. It reminds us that standing for truth may lead to suffering, but God ultimately prevails. We should be vigilant and support those who proclaim God's message, knowing that their efforts are significant in His plan.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Key themes
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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 11:8 mean?
Revelation 11:8 describes the bodies of two witnesses lying in a city symbolically called Sodom and Egypt, indicating a place of moral decay and spiritual corruption, which is understood to be Jerusalem.
What is the significance of Sodom and Egypt in Revelation 11:8?
Sodom and Egypt symbolize places known for their wickedness and oppression, highlighting the spiritual decline of the city where Christ was crucified, emphasizing the rejection of God's messengers.
What does the mention of dead bodies in Revelation 11:8 represent?
The dead bodies in Revelation 11:8 represent the rejection and persecution of God's prophets, illustrating the consequences of turning away from divine truth and the spiritual battles faced by believers.
Why is Jerusalem referred to as Sodom and Egypt in Revelation 11:8?
Jerusalem is referred to as Sodom and Egypt in Revelation 11:8 to illustrate its moral corruption and the oppression of God's messengers, contrasting its historical significance with its spiritual state.
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