Revelation 20:7 (KJV)

What does Revelation 20:7 mean?

Revelation 20:7 states that after a period of one thousand years, Satan will be released from the place where he has been confined. This verse marks a turning point in the vision, signaling the end of a long era of restraint for Satan.

In the book of Revelation, John is describing a vision given to him about future events. Here, he is telling his audience that after a symbolic or literal thousand-year period, which has been a time of peace or order, Satan will no longer be held captive. This sets the stage for the events that follow in the chapter, where Satan’s release leads to further conflict before the final resolution.

The Greek behind Revelation 20:7

• χίλια (chilia, "thousand"): This word refers to the length of time Satan is imprisoned. The use of "thousand" is often understood as a complete or significant period, not just a literal number.
• λυθήσεται (lythēsetai, "shall be loosed"): The Greek word here means to be released or set free from bonds. This emphasizes that Satan’s confinement is temporary and under control, not permanent.
• φυλακῆς (phylakēs, "prison"): This word means a place of guarding or confinement. It highlights that Satan has been actively restrained, not just absent or inactive.

Why Revelation 20:7 matters

• This verse clarifies that Satan's power is not unlimited; he is held and released only by divine permission, which reassures readers that evil is under control.
• Revelation 20:7 connects the earlier promise of a thousand-year reign with what comes next, showing that the story is not finished with the millennium.
• The verse sets up the dramatic final events of Revelation, helping readers understand the sequence and the seriousness of Satan’s release.