New Testament
Revelation 18:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Revelation 18:15, the focus is on the merchants who profited from the corrupt system symbolized by 'her,' often interpreted as Babylon.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
The merchants who got rich from her will stand far away, terrified by her torment, weeping and mourning.
The merchants of these things, which were made rich by her, shall stand afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 18:15, the focus is on the merchants who profited from the corrupt system symbolized by 'her,' often interpreted as Babylon. These merchants, who became wealthy through trade and commerce linked to this system, are now witnessing its downfall. They stand at a distance, filled with fear and sorrow over the destruction they see. Their weeping and mourning reflect not only their loss of wealth but also the realization of the consequences of their involvement in such a corrupt enterprise. This verse highlights the stark contrast between temporary riches and the ultimate judgment that comes upon those who exploit others for profit. It serves as a warning about the fleeting nature of material wealth and the moral implications of one's business practices.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 18:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own pursuits of wealth and success. Are we engaging in practices that may be morally questionable? It reminds us to prioritize integrity and compassion over profit, ensuring our actions align with our values and do not harm others.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 18:15 mean for modern businesses?
Revelation 18:15 serves as a cautionary tale for modern businesses, highlighting the dangers of pursuing profit at the expense of ethical practices. It reminds us that wealth gained through corrupt means can lead to dire consequences, both morally and financially. Business owners should reflect on their practices and ensure they operate with integrity, prioritizing ethical considerations over mere profit.
Who are the merchants referred to in Revelation 18:15?
The merchants in Revelation 18:15 symbolize those who have profited from the corrupt system represented by 'her,' often interpreted as Babylon. These individuals or entities thrived on trade and commerce that exploited others, and their mourning signifies the loss of their wealth and the realization of the moral implications of their actions.
What is the significance of weeping and mourning in this verse?
The weeping and mourning in Revelation 18:15 signify the deep sorrow and fear experienced by the merchants witnessing the downfall of the corrupt system they benefited from. This emotional response underscores the fleeting nature of material wealth and serves as a reminder that the consequences of unethical practices can lead to profound loss and regret.
How does Revelation 18:15 relate to the concept of judgment?
Revelation 18:15 illustrates the theme of judgment by showing the consequences faced by those who exploit others for profit. The merchants' fear and mourning reflect the ultimate judgment that befalls a corrupt system, emphasizing that earthly riches are temporary and can lead to spiritual and moral reckoning.
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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