Revelation 11:12

Arabic SVD 1865 Version (Smith and Van Dyke)

وسمعوا صوتا عظيما من السماء قائلا لهما اصعدا الى ههنا فصعدا الى السماء في السحابة ونظرهما اعداؤهما.

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, two people hear a loud voice from heaven telling them to come up. They ascend into the sky in a cloud, and their enemies watch them go. This is a powerful image of divine intervention and rescue.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing outside with your friend when suddenly a big, friendly voice calls you both to come up high into the sky. You start floating away on fluffy clouds while all the mean kids who were picking on you can only watch as you disappear into the heavens. That's what happened here!

Historical Background

Revelation was written by John towards the end of the first century, around 96 AD. It was intended for seven churches in Asia Minor that were facing persecution from Roman authorities and other societal pressures. The book is rich with symbolic imagery reflecting both Old Testament prophetic literature and contemporary apocalyptic traditions.

Living It Out Today

This verse can encourage believers who feel overwhelmed by their circumstances or enemies. Just as the two individuals ascended into heaven, we are promised divine rescue if we remain faithful to God's calling in our lives. For example, someone facing relentless workplace bullying might find strength knowing that true safety and peace await with God.

Topics

• faithfulness
• persecution
• divine intervention
• salvation
• hope
• heaven

Related Verses

• Daniel 7:13
• Acts 1:9
• 2 Corinthians 5:1-4
• Ephesians 2:6
• Philippians 3:20

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are 'they' mentioned in this verse?

'They' refers to two witnesses who have been preaching and performing miracles on Earth. These individuals are seen as a symbol of God’s protection and truth.

What does the cloud symbolize here?

The cloud is often used in biblical imagery to represent divine presence or transportation, linking back to events like the ascension of Jesus and the coming of God's glory in the Old Testament.

How might this verse apply to someone feeling persecuted?

This verse can offer comfort and hope. It reassures believers that even when they face adversity, there is a divine promise of ultimate rescue and safety with God.

What does the enemy's reaction tell us about their perception of these two witnesses?

The enemies' reaction shows that they recognize the power and significance of the witnesses. Their disbelief and inability to stop them highlights the witnesses' divine authority.