Revelation 9:18

By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone, which issued out of their mouths.

Revelation 9:18 (KJV)

Context

Revelation is the last book of the New Testament and is known for its apocalyptic and symbolic language. It contains a series of visions given to the apostle John, providing a glimpse into future events and the ultimate triumph of God over evil. In Revelation 9, the passage leading up to verse 18 describes the unleashing of the sixth trumpet judgment. This trumpet heralds a catastrophic judgment upon humanity, bringing death and destruction.

Meaning

Verse 18 specifically mentions that a third of mankind was killed by fire, smoke, and brimstone that issued out of the mouths of certain beings. This imagery is highly symbolic, and it is important to interpret it in light of the overall themes and symbols presented in Revelation. In biblical symbolism, fire often represents judgment and purification. Smoke can symbolize the consequences of judgment and destruction. Brimstone, also known as sulphur, is often associated with divine judgment and punishment, as seen in the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19:24.

The phrase “which issued out of their mouths” suggests that these elements are connected to specific entities or beings. The exact nature of these beings is a subject of interpretation and debate among scholars. Some interpret them as demonic creatures, while others see them as symbolic representations of various forces or events. The immediate context in Revelation 9:17-19 describes these horsemen with heads like lions and tails like serpents, and the power to hurt is in their mouths and tails.

The specific combination of fire, smoke, and brimstone recalls the judgment of the wicked and the imagery of God’s own wrath in Psalm 18:8, where smoke and devouring fire come from His mouth. This connection shows that the judgment unleashed here is a direct act of divine wrath, though it is executed through these agents. The passage underscores the severity of divine judgment and the reality of God’s wrath against sin.

The overall message of this verse is that a significant portion of humanity will experience severe judgment and destruction. The use of symbolic language emphasizes the magnitude and seriousness of the judgment. It serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and the consequences of rejecting His authority and grace. The judgment is partial—a third of humanity is killed—indicating both the extent and the limitation of this particular judgment, leaving room for repentance, though the following verses show that the survivors do not repent.

Application

It is important to note that interpreting the book of Revelation requires caution and an understanding of its apocalyptic genre. The symbolism used in this passage and throughout the book should be understood in the broader context of the Bible and the message of salvation. Ultimately, Revelation calls believers to remain faithful to God, even in the face of trials and tribulations, and to trust in His ultimate victory over evil.