Revelation 1:12
“And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks;”
This verse is part of the introductory section of the Book of Revelation, where the apostle John describes his vision of the risen and glorified Jesus Christ. Let’s delve deeper into the context and symbolism found in this verse.
John’s Turn to See the Voice:In the previous verse (Revelation 1:11), John mentions hearing a great voice, like a trumpet, instructing him to write in a book what he sees. Here, John turns to see the source of the voice. This turning represents his attentiveness and eagerness to perceive and understand the divine revelation.
Seven Golden Candlesticks:As John turns, he sees seven golden candlesticks. In Revelation 1:20, Jesus Himself explains the symbolism of the seven candlesticks, stating that they represent the seven churches. These churches are believed to be actual congregations present during John’s time, but they also symbolize the various types of churches throughout history.
The choice of golden candlesticks carries rich symbolism. Candlesticks, or lampstands, were used to hold lamps or candles to provide light. The golden material represents their importance and divine nature. The church, as the bearer of God’s light in the world, is represented by these candlesticks. The number seven signifies completeness, implying that the message of Revelation is intended for the entire Church as a whole.
The presence of the candlesticks also recalls the imagery from the Old Testament, specifically the seven-branched golden lampstand (menorah) in the tabernacle and later in the temple. This connection emphasizes the continuity between the Old and New Testaments and suggests that the fulfilment of God’s plan is being revealed.
In summary, Revelation 1:12 sets the stage for the unveiling of the message John receives from Jesus Christ. John turns to see the voice that spoke to him and beholds the seven golden candlesticks representing the seven churches. This verse emphasises the significance of the Church as the bearer of God’s light and introduces the overarching theme of the Book of Revelation: the revelation of Jesus Christ and the unfolding of God’s divine plan for the world.
