New Testament
Revelation 21:13
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Revelation 21:13, the description of the New Jerusalem includes a significant detail about its gates.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
There were 3 gates on the east side, 3 on the north, 3 on the south, and 3 on the west.
On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 21:13, the description of the New Jerusalem includes a significant detail about its gates. There are a total of twelve gates, three located on each side of the city: east, north, south, and west. This arrangement symbolizes accessibility and inclusivity, suggesting that people from all directions and backgrounds can enter the city. The gates represent the invitation to come into the presence of God and experience eternal life. The number twelve often signifies completeness in biblical terms, indicating that the New Jerusalem is fully prepared for all who believe. The mention of gates also emphasizes the idea of security and protection, as they serve as entry points into a safe and holy place. This imagery reassures believers of their welcome into God's eternal kingdom, where they will dwell with Him forever, free from pain and suffering. Overall, this verse highlights the beauty and openness of the New Jerusalem, reflecting God's desire for all to come to Him.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 21:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the openness of God's kingdom. Just as the gates of the New Jerusalem are accessible from all directions, we should strive to be welcoming and inclusive in our communities, inviting others to experience God's love and grace.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 21:13 mean?
Revelation 21:13 describes the New Jerusalem as having twelve gates, three on each side. This signifies that the city is open and welcoming to all people, symbolizing inclusivity and the invitation to enter God's presence.
What is the significance of the gates in Revelation 21:13?
The gates in Revelation 21:13 represent accessibility and security, allowing people from all directions to enter the New Jerusalem. Their presence emphasizes God's desire for everyone to experience eternal life and fellowship with Him.
How many gates are mentioned in Revelation 21:13?
Revelation 21:13 mentions a total of twelve gates, with three gates on each of the four sides: east, north, south, and west.
What does the number twelve represent in Revelation 21:13?
In Revelation 21:13, the number twelve often symbolizes completeness in the Bible, indicating that the New Jerusalem is fully prepared to welcome all believers into God's eternal kingdom.

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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