Revelation 11:2

“But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.”

This verse is found in the book of Revelation, which is the last book of the Bible and contains visions and prophecies given to the apostle John. It’s important to note that the book of Revelation is highly symbolic and can be interpreted in different ways. With that in mind, let’s explore the verse and its potential meanings.

Context:To understand Revelation 11:2, it’s essential to consider the context. In the preceding verses, John is given a measuring rod and instructed to measure the temple, the altar, and those who worship there. This act symbolizes God’s ownership and protection of His people.

The court outside the temple:In this verse, John is told not to measure the outer court of the temple. The outer court is sometimes associated with the Gentiles, indicating that it is not part of God’s measured or protected domain. This may suggest that the Gentiles will have some influence or authority in this space.

The holy city trodden underfoot:The verse also states that the holy city will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles for forty-two months. The holy city generally refers to Jerusalem. This period of forty-two months is equivalent to three and a half years. Symbolically, it represents a limited and temporary period of time.

Interpreting these symbols can be challenging, and various views exist among scholars and theologians. Here are a few interpretations:

• a. Historical interpretation:Some scholars suggest that the fulfilment of this verse occurred during the Roman Empire’s conquest of Jerusalem in 70 AD when the temple was destroyed, and Jerusalem was overtaken by Gentiles. This interpretation sees the verse as a prophecy of historical events.
• b. Symbolic interpretation:Others view this verse as symbolic, representing a broader spiritual truth. In this perspective, the measuring of the temple and the exclusion of the outer court may signify God’s protection of His true worshippers, while the trampling of the holy city by the Gentiles symbolizes the persecution and oppression of God’s people throughout history.
• c. Future interpretation:Another perspective takes this verse as a prophecy of future events yet to be fulfilled. It suggests that in the end times, there will be a temple in Jerusalem, and the Gentiles will have control over the outer court. The trampling of the holy city for forty-two months can be seen as a period of persecution and tribulation.

It’s important to approach the book of Revelation with humility and recognise that there may be different valid interpretations. Studying other passages of Scripture, consulting reputable commentaries, and seeking guidance from trusted teachers can provide further insights into the meaning of Revelation 11:2.