New Testament

Revelation 12:1

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

And a great wonder appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:

What Revelation 12:1 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Revelation 12:1, a significant vision unfolds in heaven featuring a woman adorned in brilliant light, symbolizing purity and divine favor. The imagery of her being clothed with the sun suggests she embodies glory and righteousness. The moon beneath her feet may represent the changing nature of earthly powers, while the crown of twelve stars signifies authority and completeness, possibly alluding to the twelve tribes of Israel or the apostles. This vision serves as a powerful metaphor for the struggle between good and evil, highlighting the woman’s role in God’s plan. The wonder in heaven indicates a pivotal moment in spiritual history, emphasizing the importance of this figure in the cosmic battle against darkness. Overall, this verse sets the stage for the unfolding drama of Revelation, illustrating themes of hope, victory, and divine protection.

How to apply Revelation 12:1 to your life

This verse encourages believers to recognize the spiritual battles in their lives and to find hope in God's ultimate victory. It reminds us that, like the woman in the vision, we are part of a larger divine narrative and can trust in God's protection and guidance.

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 visiting Mary

Illustrated scene from Jesus'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.

Jesus

The low dark stone ruins of Capernaum, with the Sea of Galilee and hills behind.

Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. 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.

Capernaum

Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.

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 12:1

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 12:1

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 12:1 mean?

Revelation 12:1 describes a vision of a woman clothed with the sun, symbolizing purity and divine favor. The imagery suggests her role in the cosmic struggle between good and evil, highlighting themes of hope and God's protection.

What is the significance of the woman in Revelation 12:1?

The woman in Revelation 12:1 represents a figure of authority and divine favor, often interpreted as symbolizing Israel or the Church. Her clothing of the sun and the crown of twelve stars emphasize her glory and completeness in God's plan.

What does the crown of twelve stars represent in Revelation 12:1?

The crown of twelve stars in Revelation 12:1 likely symbolizes authority and completeness, possibly referring to the twelve tribes of Israel or the apostles. It signifies the woman's significant role in God's redemptive narrative.

What does the moon under her feet mean in Revelation 12:1?

The moon under the woman's feet in Revelation 12:1 may represent the transient nature of earthly powers and influences. It highlights her elevated status and the triumph of divine authority over worldly challenges.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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