On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.

REVELATION 21:13KJV
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Revelation 21:13 (KJV)

What does Revelation 21:13 mean?

Revelation 21:13 describes the layout of the New Jerusalem, saying there are three gates on each side—east, north, south, and west—making a total of twelve gates. This detail highlights the symmetry and openness of the city as seen in John’s vision.

In the book of Revelation, John is describing a vision of the holy city, the New Jerusalem, coming down from heaven. This verse is part of a detailed description of the city’s structure, given to John by an angel. The mention of gates on all four sides suggests that people from every direction have access, reflecting the city’s welcoming nature and completeness.

The Greek behind Revelation 21:13

  • ἀνατολή (anatolē, G395) — "east": This word means "east" or "sunrise," often symbolizing new beginnings or hope. Its use here sets the orientation for the city’s gates.
  • πύλη (pylē, G4440) — "gates": This word refers to large entryways, emphasizing the city’s accessibility and grandeur. The repetition underscores the idea of equal access from all directions.
  • τρεῖς (treis, G5140) — "three": The number three is repeated for each side, pointing to intentional design and balance in the city’s construction.
  • βορρᾶς (borras, G1005), νότος (notos, G3558), and δύσις (dysis, G1424) — "north," "south," and "west": These words specify the directions, reinforcing the idea that the city is open and welcoming to all, no matter where they come from.

Why Revelation 21:13 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the New Jerusalem is not exclusive or closed off; its gates face every direction, symbolizing openness to all people.
  • The detailed symmetry and equal number of gates on each side emphasize the city’s perfection and order, which is a recurring theme in John’s vision.
  • By connecting to the earlier descriptions of the twelve tribes of Israel (Revelation 21:12), this verse ties the new city to the heritage of God’s people, showing continuity and fulfillment of earlier promises.

Where else these words appear

“north” Greek G1005 · used in 2 verses

  • Luke 13:29 And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God.

“west” Greek G1424 · used in 5 verses

  • Matthew 8:11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.
  • Matthew 24:27 For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
  • Luke 12:54 And he said also to the people, When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower; and so it is.

“south” Greek G3558 · used in 7 verses

  • Matthew 12:42 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.
  • Luke 12:55 And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass.
  • Acts 27:13 And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete.

“east” Greek G395 · used in 10 verses

  • Matthew 2:1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,
  • Matthew 8:11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.
  • Luke 13:29 And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God.