New Testament
Revelation 9:5
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Revelation 9:5, the imagery of locusts symbolizes a time of intense suffering for those who do not follow God.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
The locusts weren't allowed to kill these people, but they could torment them for 5 months. Their torment was like the sting of a scorpion when it strikes a person.
And to them it was given that they should not kill them, but that they should be tormented five months: and their torment was as the torment of a scorpion, when he striketh a man.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 9:5, the imagery of locusts symbolizes a time of intense suffering for those who do not follow God. These locusts are given the power to inflict pain but not to kill, indicating that their torment is temporary and limited. The five-month period suggests a specific duration of suffering, which is likened to the sting of a scorpion, known for its excruciating pain. This passage highlights the severity of the judgment that comes upon those who reject God, emphasizing that while they may not face death, the torment they experience is profound and distressing. The use of scorpion imagery serves to illustrate the nature of this suffering, making it relatable to the audience. Overall, this verse serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from divine guidance and the reality of spiritual torment that can occur in life.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 9:5 to your life
This verse reminds us of the seriousness of our spiritual choices. It encourages us to seek a relationship with God to avoid the torment that comes from rejecting Him. We should also be compassionate towards those who are suffering, understanding that their pain may be a result of their spiritual state.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 9:5 mean?
Revelation 9:5 describes a period of torment inflicted by locusts on those who do not follow God. They are allowed to cause pain for five months, symbolizing a temporary but intense suffering that serves as a warning about the consequences of rejecting divine guidance.
What is the significance of the five months in Revelation 9:5?
The five months in Revelation 9:5 indicate a specific duration of suffering that is limited and temporary. This timeframe emphasizes that while the torment is severe, it is not eternal, highlighting the nature of divine judgment.
What does the scorpion symbolize in Revelation 9:5?
In Revelation 9:5, the scorpion symbolizes intense pain and suffering. The torment described is likened to a scorpion's sting, which is known for its excruciating pain, illustrating the severity of the judgment faced by those who reject God.
Who are the people being tormented in Revelation 9:5?
The people being tormented in Revelation 9:5 are those who do not follow God. The passage serves as a warning about the spiritual consequences of turning away from divine guidance.
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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