Revelation 19:7 (KJV)

What does Revelation 19:7 mean?

Revelation 19:7 describes a moment of joyful celebration, calling people to be glad and honor God because the long-awaited marriage of the Lamb has arrived, and the Lamb’s bride is now prepared. The verse uses the image of a wedding to picture a time of union and readiness between the Lamb and his wife.

In the setting of Revelation 19, a great multitude in heaven is speaking, celebrating God’s victory and the fulfillment of his promises. The “Lamb” refers to Jesus, and the “wife” or “bride” is often understood as God’s people, now made ready for this special union. The verse uses the language of a wedding feast, a familiar symbol in ancient times for joy, commitment, and new beginnings.

The Greek behind Revelation 19:7

• γάμος (gamos, “marriage”): This word points to a wedding celebration, not just a ceremony but the whole joyful event, emphasizing the communal and festive nature of what is being described.
• ἀρνίον (arnion, “Lamb”): This is a specific term for a young lamb, used throughout Revelation to refer to Jesus in his sacrificial and victorious role.
• γυνή (gynē, “wife”): This word can mean “woman” or “wife,” but here it clearly means the bride in the context of a wedding, highlighting her relationship to the Lamb.
• ἑτοιμάζω (hetoimazō, “made ready”): This verb means to prepare or make ready, showing that the bride has actively gotten herself ready for this important moment, not just passively waiting.

Why Revelation 19:7 matters

• Revelation 19:7 clears up that the focus is on celebration and honor directed to God, not just the event itself, showing the joy and reverence of those in heaven.
• The verse emphasizes the idea of readiness and preparation, suggesting that the bride’s role is active—she has made herself ready for this union.
• This verse connects to the larger theme in Revelation of God’s promises being fulfilled and his people being brought into a close, joyful relationship with him, pictured as a wedding feast.