Revelation 21:25

And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there.

Revelation 21:25 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to John’s vision of the New Jerusalem, the holy city that descends from God out of heaven. In the preceding verses, the city is shown as the dwelling place of God among His people, where sorrow, death, and pain have passed away. Here the focus narrows to the city’s gates and its perpetual daylight.

Meaning

The phrase “the gates of it” points to the entrances of the New Jerusalem. In ancient times, city gates were closed at night for security against enemies and wild beasts. That the gates “shall not be shut at all by day” signals that no threat exists within or without the city. There is no need for bars or guards because evil and danger have been completely removed.

The second half of the verse gives the reason: “for there shall be no night there.” In Scripture, night often symbolizes sin, spiritual darkness, and separation from God. Its absence means the full presence of God’s glory, which illuminates the city so thoroughly that created light is unnecessary. The open gates and unending day together picture continuous access, unbroken fellowship, and perfect safety for the redeemed.

Biblical connections

This imagery echoes the Old Testament promise in Isaiah 60:11, where the city’s gates are continually open to receive the wealth of nations. In Revelation, the open gates also welcome the kings of the earth who bring their glory into the city, as the following verse shows. The absence of night further connects to the end of the curse and the complete fulfillment of God’s redemptive work, when all things are made new.

Application

For believers, this verse strengthens hope and perseverance. It assures us that the future God has prepared is free from darkness, sin, and separation. Because the gates are never shut, there is no barrier between God and His people. This truth encourages us to live with confidence in God’s promises and to set our hearts on the eternal glory that awaits us.

Reflection

The New Jerusalem stands as a place of perpetual daylight, eternal access, and unbroken communion with God. Its open gates invite us to rest in the certainty of His salvation and to long for the day when we will dwell in His presence forever.