Revelation 18:18

Bashkir 2014 - Инжил Башҡортча

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes people crying and shouting when they see the smoke from a burning city, calling it an unprecedentedly great city. The speakers are likely merchants or those who depended on this city for wealth and influence.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a favorite toy store that suddenly caught fire. You might cry and wonder if any other toy store could be as amazing as the one you loved. That's what's happening here, but with a big city instead of a toy store.

Historical Background

The Book of Revelation was written by John around 96 CE during Emperor Domitian's reign. This verse is part of a larger prophecy against Babylon (a symbol for Rome), warning about its destruction and the lamentation from those who benefited from it.

Living It Out Today

Today, imagine if a major economic hub like New York City faced sudden collapse due to unforeseen circumstances. The shock and disbelief expressed by those dependent on that city's wealth and influence would echo this verse’s sentiments.

Topics

judgmentdestructionlamentationwealthempireprophecy

Related Verses

Isaiah 23:1Ezekiel 27:36Matthew 11:24Luke 20:9-18Revelation 17:5

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are 'they' that cried when they saw the smoke?
They likely refer to merchants or those economically dependent on the city, lamenting its destruction and their loss.
What does this passage imply about the importance of Babylon in ancient times?
It suggests that Babylon (symbolizing Rome) was crucial for trade and wealth, and its fall would shock many.
How can Revelation 18:18 be interpreted symbolically today?
Symbolically, it could represent the downfall of powerful economic or political entities and the profound impact on those dependent on them.
What is the overall message conveyed in Revelation chapter 18?
The chapter conveys a warning about divine judgment against corrupt power structures, emphasizing their ultimate destruction and the lamentation from those who benefited from them.
Compare Revelation 18:18 across all translations →