New Testament

Revelation 9:18

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Revelation 9:18, the text describes a catastrophic event where a significant portion of humanity, specifically one-third, is killed due to three devastating plagues.

Author
John the apostle
Written
Around AD 95
Genre
Apocalyptic prophecy
Original Audience
The seven churches of Asia Minor
CBTClear Bible Translation

A third of humanity was killed by these three plagues: the fire, the smoke, and the brimstone that came out of their mouths.

KJVKing James Version

By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone, which issued out of their mouths.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Revelation 9:18, the text describes a catastrophic event where a significant portion of humanity, specifically one-third, is killed due to three devastating plagues. These plagues are characterized by fire, smoke, and brimstone, which are described as coming from the mouths of creatures or entities involved in this judgment. This imagery suggests a powerful and destructive force, possibly symbolizing divine judgment or the consequences of sin. The use of fire, smoke, and brimstone evokes a sense of hellish destruction, reminiscent of the biblical accounts of God's judgment. The verse serves as a stark reminder of the severity of divine retribution and the consequences of turning away from God. It emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare and the impact of evil forces in the world, leading to devastating outcomes for humanity.

How to apply Revelation 9:18 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on our spiritual lives and the consequences of our actions. It serves as a warning about the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment. We should strive to live righteously and seek God's mercy, recognizing the importance of repentance and faith.

Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Revelation 9:18 mean?

Revelation 9:18 describes a catastrophic event where one-third of humanity is killed by three plagues characterized by fire, smoke, and brimstone. This imagery suggests a powerful force of destruction, often interpreted as a representation of divine judgment.

What is the significance of fire, smoke, and brimstone in Revelation 9:18?

In Revelation 9:18, fire, smoke, and brimstone symbolize destructive forces associated with divine judgment. These elements evoke a sense of hellish destruction and highlight the severity of the consequences faced by humanity due to sin.

How does Revelation 9:18 relate to divine judgment?

Revelation 9:18 illustrates the concept of divine judgment by depicting a significant loss of life due to plagues. It emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the repercussions that can arise from disobedience to God.

What can we learn from Revelation 9:18?

From Revelation 9:18, we learn about the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment. It encourages reflection on our spiritual lives and the importance of seeking God's mercy and living righteously.

The Book of Revelation
Book Summary

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.

Premium

Unlock the full Revelation summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Revelation — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 22 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Revelation summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.