Revelation 21:16

And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.

Revelation 21:16 (KJV)

Context

The book of Revelation is the last book of the Bible and contains a series of visions and prophecies given to the apostle John. In Revelation 21, John describes the vision of the New Jerusalem, the holy city that comes down from heaven, prepared as a bride for her husband (Revelation 21:2).

Meaning

The verse tells us that the city is foursquare, meaning it has the shape of a perfect cube. This symbolizes the city’s perfection and symmetry. In ancient times, cities with walls shaped like a cube were considered the most secure and well-structured. The angel who spoke with John measured the city with a reed, and it was found to be twelve thousand furlongs. A furlong is approximately 607 feet, so the city’s measurements would be around 1,500 miles (or 2,400 kilometers) in each direction. The length, breadth, and height are equal, emphasizing the city’s perfect form.

The measurements of the New Jerusalem are believed to have symbolic significance rather than being literal. The number twelve is associated with God’s people, such as the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles. The twelve thousand furlongs can be seen as a multiple of twelve, emphasizing the completeness and fullness of God’s plan for His people. The cube shape also recalls the Holy of Holies in the tabernacle and temple, which was a perfect cube (1 Kings 6:20). This connection shows that the New Jerusalem is the ultimate dwelling place of God with humanity, where His presence fills the entire city.

Biblical connections

The measurement with a reed signifies that God has determined the city’s dimensions, and it is secure and permanent. The city’s foursquare shape suggests that it is oriented to all directions, welcoming people from every nation. The equal dimensions also symbolize the stability and perfection of God’s kingdom. The immense size of the New Jerusalem highlights its grandeur and magnificence. It conveys the idea that there is more than enough room for all believers in God’s eternal dwelling place. It shows that God’s provision and love for His people are abundant and boundless.

Application

The description of the New Jerusalem as a perfect, secure, and immense city points to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises to His people. It symbolizes the eternal dwelling place of believers in the presence of God, where there will be no more sorrow, pain, or evil. It signifies a state of perfect communion with God and one another. As believers, this verse reminds us of the glorious future that awaits us in God’s presence. It encourages us to look forward with hope and anticipation for the day when we will experience the fullness of God’s kingdom. It reassures us that God’s plans for us are perfect and that He has prepared a place for us that exceeds our imagination.

Reflection

Revelation 21:16 describes the New Jerusalem as a foursquare city with equal measurements in length, breadth, and height. The immense size and perfect symmetry symbolize the completeness and abundance of God’s provision for His people. It points to the future hope of believers and reminds us of the eternal dwelling place God has prepared for those who love Him.