Topical Bible: Israel: Number of, in John's Apocalyptic Vision

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In the Book of Revelation, the Apostle John presents a vivid and symbolic vision of the end times, which includes specific references to the number of Israelites. This vision is rich with imagery and symbolism, reflecting the fulfillment of God's promises and the culmination of His divine plan.

The Sealed of Israel

In Revelation 7:4, John records the sealing of 144,000 from the tribes of Israel: "And I heard the number of those who were sealed, 144,000 from all the tribes of Israel." This number is significant and has been the subject of much theological discussion. The 144,000 are described as being sealed on their foreheads, indicating divine protection and ownership. The sealing signifies that these individuals are set apart for a special purpose during the tribulation period.

The number 144,000 is derived from 12,000 individuals from each of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribes listed in Revelation 7:5-8 include Judah, Reuben, Gad, Asher, Naphtali, Manasseh, Simeon, Levi, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, and Benjamin. Notably, the tribe of Dan is omitted, and the tribe of Joseph is mentioned instead of Ephraim, with Manasseh being listed separately. This arrangement has led to various interpretations regarding the symbolic and literal significance of the tribes and their numbers.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The number 144,000 is often interpreted symbolically, representing completeness and perfection. The number 12 is significant in biblical numerology, often associated with God's people (e.g., the twelve tribes of Israel, the twelve apostles). The multiplication of 12,000 by 12 suggests a fullness and completeness of God's covenant people.

From a conservative Christian perspective, the 144,000 are seen as a literal group of Jewish believers who will play a crucial role during the tribulation. They are often understood to be evangelists or witnesses who will proclaim the gospel during this tumultuous period, leading many to faith in Christ.

The Great Multitude

Following the description of the 144,000, John sees a "great multitude that no one could count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb" (Revelation 7:9). This multitude, distinct from the 144,000, represents the redeemed from all nations, emphasizing the universal scope of salvation through Christ.

The Role of Israel in Revelation

The mention of the 144,000 underscores the continuing significance of Israel in God's redemptive plan. Throughout Scripture, Israel is portrayed as God's chosen people, and the promises made to the patriarchs are seen as enduring. In the apocalyptic vision, the sealing of the 144,000 highlights God's faithfulness to Israel and His intention to fulfill His covenant promises.

In summary, the number of Israelites in John's apocalyptic vision serves as a powerful symbol of God's protection, purpose, and the fulfillment of His promises to His people. The 144,000, along with the great multitude, illustrate the scope of God's redemptive work in the end times, encompassing both Israel and the nations.

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Revelation 7:1-8
And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Apocalypse.
... He thinks that John used both numbers, 616 in the ... gives a list of the children of
Israel who returned ... Von Hofmann and F?�ller think that the number implies the ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 101 the apocalypse.htm

The Ascension of Isaiah.
... books in which were contained all the history of Israel: and everything ... John (Revelation
9:1, etc ... The opinion that the heavens are seven in number is found in ...
//christianbookshelf.org/deane/pseudepigrapha/the ascension of isaiah.htm

An Essay on the Scriptural Doctrine of Immortality.
... "The twelve tribes of Israel" is the ... and pronounces condemnation in the last day
(compare John 12:48). ... all the risen nations of the earth, "the number of whom ...
/.../an essay on the scriptural.htm

The Revelation of St. John the Divine
... God imprinted on the saints of the new Israel, corresponds with ... 1] As symbolized
by the number seven ... 82 Antichrist, in 2 Thess., 131; in 1 John, 255 Antilegomena ...
/.../pullan/the books of the new testament/chapter xxv the revelation of.htm