Revelation 22:5

And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

Revelation 22:5 (KJV)

Context

The book of Revelation, written by the apostle John, is a prophetic vision concerning the end times and the ultimate triumph of God. In the closing chapter, John describes the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city, and provides a glimpse of the eternal state of believers.

Meaning

The first part of Revelation 22:5 declares that in the New Jerusalem, there will be no night. This signifies the absence of darkness, evil, and sin. It points to the perfect and eternal nature of the heavenly realm, where God’s light perpetually illuminates everything. This promise repeats the assurance of Revelation 21:25, where the gates of the city shall not be shut “for there shall be no night there.” The repetition expresses certainty and emphasizes that the happiness of this state lies greatly in its light; it will be one everlasting day.

The verse further states that there will be no need for candles or the light of the sun in the New Jerusalem. This indicates that the source of light in the eternal city is not physical but divine. The light of the sun and of a lamp will be obsolete because God’s own glory will be the sufficient and direct illumination for all. God Himself is the source of light, symbolizing His glory, presence, and the absence of any kind of darkness.

The verse emphasizes that the Lord God gives light to the inhabitants of the New Jerusalem. This implies that in the eternal state, believers will experience an uninterrupted, direct communion with God. They will dwell in His presence and have access to the fullness of His light and revelation. This is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to be the light of His people.

The final part of Revelation 22:5 states that the inhabitants of the New Jerusalem will reign forever and ever. This suggests that believers will share in the reign and authority of Christ, participating in His eternal kingdom. It signifies the privilege and responsibility given to believers as co-heirs with Christ in His glorious and everlasting dominion. This reign is eternal, lasting “for ever and ever,” presenting a picture of complete victory, unbroken fellowship with God, and a share in His eternal rule, free from all the limitations and sorrows of the present age.

Application

Revelation 22:5 presents a vivid picture of the eternal state, describing the absence of darkness, the divine illumination provided by God Himself, and the everlasting reign of believers with Christ. It offers hope, assurance, and a glimpse into the glorious future that awaits those who have put their trust in the Lord.