And cried with a loud voice, as when a lion roareth: and when he had cried, seven thunders uttered their voices.

REVELATION 10:3KJV
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Revelation 10:3 (KJV)

What does Revelation 10:3 mean?

Revelation 10:3 describes a mighty angel calling out with a powerful voice, compared to the roar of a lion, and after this cry, seven thunders respond with their own voices. The verse highlights the dramatic and awe-inspiring nature of the angel’s proclamation and the mysterious response from the seven thunders.

The setting is John’s vision in the book of Revelation, where he sees a strong angel standing on land and sea. The angel’s loud cry (like a lion’s roar) signals something important and commands attention. The seven thunders are not explained here, but their voices suggest a response from heaven or creation itself, adding to the sense of mystery and significance.

The Greek behind Revelation 10:3

  • The word for "cried" is ἔκραξεν (ekraxen), which means to shout or call out loudly. This emphasizes the force and urgency of the angel’s message.
  • "Loud" comes from μεγάλη (megalē, from G3173), meaning great or mighty. The angel’s voice is not just loud, but overwhelming and commanding.
  • The comparison "as when a lion roareth" uses the Greek word λέων (leōn) for lion and μυκάομαι (mukaomai, from G3455) for roaring, which carries the sense of a deep, fearsome sound. This paints a vivid picture of power and authority.
  • "Seven thunders" (ἑπτὰ βρονταί, hepta brontai) uses the word for thunder, which often signals God’s voice or presence in biblical imagery. Their "voices" (φωνάς, phōnas) suggest that these thunders communicate something, though the content is not revealed here.

Why Revelation 10:3 matters

  • The verse clears up that the angel’s message is meant to be dramatic and unmistakable, not quiet or hidden.
  • The mention of the seven thunders responding shows that there are mysteries in Revelation that are intentionally left unexplained, inviting readers to recognize the limits of human understanding.
  • This moment connects to the larger theme of Revelation, where heavenly events are announced with great authority and often accompanied by signs that show God’s power and majesty.