New Testament
Revelation 16:19
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Revelation 16:19, we see a dramatic scene where the great city, often interpreted as Babylon, is divided into three parts.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
The great city split into 3 parts, and the cities of every nation collapsed. God remembered Babylon the great, and he made her drink the cup filled with the wine of his fierce wrath.
And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 16:19, we see a dramatic scene where the great city, often interpreted as Babylon, is divided into three parts. This division symbolizes chaos and destruction, reflecting God's judgment on the corrupt systems of the world. The cities of all nations also fall, indicating a widespread collapse of human structures and powers. The phrase 'God remembered Babylon the great' signifies that God has not forgotten the sins of this city, which represents human pride and rebellion against Him. The 'cup filled with the wine of his fierce wrath' illustrates the severity of God's judgment, as He pours out His anger on those who oppose Him. This passage serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and the ultimate fate of those who embrace worldly values over divine truth.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 16:19 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of aligning our lives with God's values rather than worldly systems. It encourages us to reflect on our priorities and ensure that we are not caught up in pride or rebellion against God, as these lead to destruction.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 16:19 mean?
Revelation 16:19 describes the great city, often interpreted as Babylon, being divided into three parts, symbolizing chaos and God's judgment. It signifies the collapse of human systems and the reminder of God's wrath against pride and rebellion.
What is the significance of Babylon in Revelation 16:19?
In Revelation 16:19, Babylon represents human pride and corruption. The verse highlights God's judgment on this city, indicating that He has not forgotten its sins and will pour out His wrath as a consequence.
What does the 'cup filled with the wine of his fierce wrath' mean in Revelation 16:19?
The 'cup filled with the wine of his fierce wrath' in Revelation 16:19 symbolizes the severity of God's judgment against those who oppose Him. It illustrates the consequences of turning away from divine truth and embracing worldly values.
How does Revelation 16:19 relate to modern life?
Revelation 16:19 encourages individuals to reflect on their priorities and align their lives with God's values. It serves as a reminder to avoid pride and rebellion against God, as these lead to destruction.

The Book of Revelation
Revelation 1: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
This is the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gives Him to show His servants things which must shortly come to pass, sent and signified by His angel to John, who bears record of the word of God. A blessing is pronounced upon those who read and hear the words of this prophecy and keep the things written therein, for the time is at hand. John writes to the seven churches in Asia, sending grace and peace from Him which is, and which was, and which is to come, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead, who washed us from our sins in His own blood. He declares Himself Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending. John, in the isle of Patmos for the word of God, is in the Spirit on the Lord's day and hears behind him a great voice as a trumpet. Turning, he sees seven golden candlesticks and one like the Son of man among them, clothed to the foot, His head and hairs white as wool, His eyes as a flame of fire, His feet like fine brass, His voice as the sound of many waters, seven stars in His right hand, and a sharp twoedged sword going out of His mouth. John falls at His feet as dead, and the Lord lays His right hand upon him, saying, Fear not, I am the first and the last, He that liveth and was dead and is alive for evermore. He reveals that the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven candlesticks are the seven churches.
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