Revelation 11:14 (KJV)

What does Revelation 11:14 mean?

Revelation 11:14 announces that the second "woe"—a period of severe judgment or distress—has ended, and warns that the third "woe" is about to arrive very soon. This verse marks a transition point in the unfolding series of dramatic events described in John's vision.

In the book of Revelation, John is recording visions given to him, often involving angels announcing or carrying out God's judgments. Here, the verse serves as a warning to the reader or listener that after two waves of calamity, a third and final intense period of trouble is imminent. The language is urgent, signaling that these events are unfolding rapidly within the vision's timeline.

The Greek behind Revelation 11:14

• The word "woe" (οὐαί, ouai) is a strong expression of grief or disaster. In Revelation, each "woe" signals a distinct phase of judgment, making it clear that these are not ordinary troubles but extraordinary, divinely-ordered events.
• The word "quickly" (ταχύ, tachy) means "without delay" or "soon." The Greek here emphasizes the nearness and suddenness of the coming third woe, underlining the urgency and seriousness of the warning.

Why Revelation 11:14 matters

• This verse clarifies the structure of the judgments in Revelation, helping readers track the sequence of events and understand that the narrative is moving toward a climax.
• The explicit warning that the third woe is coming "quickly" highlights the intensity and acceleration of the vision's events, which can be missed if reading too casually.
• By marking the end of one period of judgment and the immediate approach of another, this verse prepares the reader for the escalating seriousness of what follows in the next passages.