New Testament
Revelation 9:12
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The first woe has passed. But two more are still coming.
Compare translations
One woe is past; and, behold, there come two woes more hereafter.
What Revelation 9:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Apostle John is conveying a message about the series of judgments that are unfolding in the apocalyptic vision he is experiencing. The term 'woe' refers to a significant period of suffering or calamity. The first woe has already occurred, indicating that a severe judgment has taken place, but there are still two more woes to come. This serves as a warning to the readers about the impending trials and tribulations that will follow. The use of 'behold' emphasizes the seriousness of the situation, urging the audience to pay attention to what is about to happen. The overall message is one of urgency and the need for preparedness, as the events of the end times will bring about great distress. This verse sets the stage for the subsequent judgments, highlighting the ongoing nature of God's plan and the consequences of humanity's choices.
How to apply Revelation 9:12 to your life
This verse reminds us to be aware of the consequences of our actions and the reality of future challenges. It encourages us to remain vigilant and spiritually prepared for difficult times ahead. By understanding the seriousness of these warnings, we can strengthen our faith and support one another in our spiritual journeys.
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.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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 PlansAsk AI about Revelation 9:12
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 9:12
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 9:12 mean?
Revelation 9:12 indicates that the first of three significant periods of suffering, referred to as 'woes,' has already occurred. It warns that two more periods of calamity are still to come, highlighting the ongoing nature of divine judgment.
What is the significance of the word 'woe' in Revelation 9:12?
In Revelation 9:12, 'woe' signifies a time of great suffering or distress. It emphasizes the seriousness of the judgments being revealed and serves as a warning to those who read the text.
How does Revelation 9:12 relate to the concept of judgment?
Revelation 9:12 relates to judgment by illustrating that God's plan includes a series of severe consequences for humanity's actions. The verse serves as a reminder of the seriousness of these judgments and the need for awareness.
What can we learn from Revelation 9:12?
From Revelation 9:12, we learn the importance of being aware of the consequences of our actions and the reality of future challenges. It encourages spiritual vigilance and preparedness for difficult times ahead.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.