Topical Bible: Seven: Miscellany of Sevens: Seven Seals

◄ Seven: Miscellany of Sevens: Seven Seals ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of the "Seven Seals" is a significant element in the apocalyptic literature of the New Testament, specifically within the Book of Revelation. The Seven Seals are introduced in Revelation 5 and are part of a divine scroll that only the Lamb, identified as Jesus Christ, is worthy to open. This imagery is rich with symbolism and is pivotal in understanding the unfolding of God's ultimate plan for humanity and the world.

The Scroll and the Lamb

In Revelation 5:1-5 , the Apostle John describes a vision of a scroll in the right hand of Him who sits on the throne. The scroll is sealed with seven seals, and a mighty angel proclaims, "Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?" No one in heaven or on earth is found worthy, causing John to weep. However, one of the elders comforts him, saying, "Do not weep! Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed to open the scroll and its seven seals."

The Opening of the Seals

The opening of each seal by the Lamb initiates a series of events that are both symbolic and prophetic, revealing aspects of divine judgment and the end times.

1. First Seal · The White Horse: Revelation 6:1-2 describes the first seal, where a rider on a white horse appears, holding a bow and given a crown. He rides out as a conqueror bent on conquest. This is often interpreted as a symbol of false peace or the rise of the Antichrist.

2. Second Seal · The Red Horse: The second seal, in Revelation 6:3-4 , reveals a rider on a red horse, symbolizing war and bloodshed. The rider is given a large sword and the power to take peace from the earth, leading people to slay one another.

3. Third Seal · The Black Horse: Upon opening the third seal, Revelation 6:5-6 depicts a rider on a black horse, holding a pair of scales. This represents famine and economic disparity, as a voice declares the high cost of basic foodstuffs, indicating scarcity and inflation.

4. Fourth Seal · The Pale Horse: The fourth seal, described in Revelation 6:7-8 , introduces a rider on a pale horse, named Death, with Hades following close behind. They are given authority over a fourth of the earth to kill by sword, famine, plague, and wild beasts.

5. Fifth Seal · The Martyrs: Revelation 6:9-11 reveals the souls of martyrs under the altar, crying out for justice. They are given white robes and told to rest until the full number of their fellow servants and brothers are killed as they were.

6. Sixth Seal · Cosmic Disturbances: The opening of the sixth seal, in Revelation 6:12-17 , results in a great earthquake, the sun turning black, the moon becoming like blood, and stars falling from the sky. This cosmic upheaval causes people of all statuses to hide in caves, recognizing the great day of God's wrath has come.

7. Seventh Seal · Silence and the Seven Trumpets: The seventh seal, described in Revelation 8:1 , brings about silence in heaven for about half an hour. This silence precedes the sounding of the seven trumpets, which further detail God's judgments and the unfolding of end-time events.

Theological Significance

The Seven Seals are a profound representation of God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His divine plan. They serve as a reminder of the ultimate triumph of Christ over evil and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. The imagery of the seals emphasizes themes of judgment, redemption, and the fulfillment of prophecy, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in faith amidst trials and tribulations.

Nave's Topical Index

Revelation 5:1
And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.
Nave's Topical Index