Revelation 18:20 (KJV)

What does Revelation 18:20 mean?

Revelation 18:20 calls on heaven, the holy apostles, and prophets to rejoice because God has brought justice against "her"—the symbolic city of Babylon, representing a corrupt and oppressive power. The verse declares that God has avenged the wrongs done to His faithful servants by judging this evil system.

The speaker in Revelation 18:20 is a heavenly voice, addressing not just those in heaven but also specifically the apostles and prophets who suffered at the hands of Babylon. The context is the fall of Babylon, described in vivid terms throughout Revelation 18, where God’s judgment is portrayed as a response to the persecution and injustice endured by His people. This verse highlights the theme of divine justice and vindication for those who remained faithful.

The Greek behind Revelation 18:20

• "Rejoice" (εὐφραίνω, euphrainō): This word means to be glad or celebrate. Here, it is a command directed to heaven and God’s faithful, emphasizing that the fall of Babylon is a reason for joy, not sorrow.
• "Avenged" (κρίνω, krinō): The Greek word used here carries the sense of executing judgment or justice. It underlines that God’s action is not random punishment but a deliberate act of setting things right for those who suffered.
• "Apostles" (ἀπόστολος, apostolos) and "prophets" (προφήτης, prophētēs): These terms specifically name those who were sent by God and those who spoke for God, both of whom faced opposition from Babylon. Their mention shows that the judgment is especially on behalf of those who were mistreated for their faith.

Why Revelation 18:20 matters

• This verse clarifies that God’s judgment is not just about punishment but about vindicating those who have been wronged, especially His servants who suffered for their faith.
• By calling on heaven and the faithful to rejoice, Revelation 18:20 shifts the focus from mourning the fall of Babylon to celebrating God’s justice and faithfulness.
• The verse connects to the larger theme in Revelation of God ultimately setting things right, assuring readers that evil will not have the last word.