New Testament
Revelation 18:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the kings of the earth represent powerful leaders who have indulged in immoral relationships and luxurious lifestyles, benefiting from their connection with a corrupt system symbolized by 'her.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
The kings of the earth who have committed immorality and lived in luxury with her will weep and wail over her when they see the smoke of her burning.
And the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication and lived deliciously with her, shall bewail her, and lament for her, when they shall see the smoke of her burning,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the kings of the earth represent powerful leaders who have indulged in immoral relationships and luxurious lifestyles, benefiting from their connection with a corrupt system symbolized by 'her.' When they witness the destruction of this system, they will express deep sorrow and regret, mourning the loss of their wealth and influence. The imagery of smoke rising from the burning city signifies the total devastation and judgment that has come upon it. This reflects the consequences of their choices and the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures. Their lamentation highlights the stark contrast between their former glory and the reality of their downfall, serving as a warning about the dangers of greed and moral compromise.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 18:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own values and relationships. It serves as a reminder that pursuing wealth and pleasure at the expense of morality can lead to devastating consequences. We should prioritize integrity and righteousness over temporary gains, ensuring our actions align with our faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 18:9 mean?
Revelation 18:9 describes the sorrow of earthly kings who mourn the destruction of a corrupt system they benefited from. It highlights the consequences of their immoral choices and the fleeting nature of wealth and power.
What is the significance of the kings in Revelation 18:9?
The kings in Revelation 18:9 symbolize powerful leaders who have engaged in immoral relationships and luxurious living. Their lamentation over the city's destruction reflects their loss of influence and wealth due to their corrupt actions.
What does the smoke represent in Revelation 18:9?
The smoke in Revelation 18:9 represents the total devastation and judgment of the corrupt system. It serves as a visual cue of the consequences faced by those who indulged in immorality and greed.
What themes are present in Revelation 18:9?
Revelation 18:9 encompasses themes of judgment, corruption, wealth, mourning, and the consequences of immorality. It serves as a warning about the dangers of prioritizing earthly pleasures over moral integrity.

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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