New Testament

Revelation 16:19

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

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.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

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.

What Revelation 16:19 means

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.

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

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 Jesus on the shore calling James and John as they sit in their boat mending their nets, with older men in the boat behind them

Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)

Meet the people of the Bible

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

John the Apostle

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 16:19

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 16:19

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 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.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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