Revelation 21:23 (KJV)

What does Revelation 21:23 mean?

Revelation 21:23 describes the New Jerusalem as a city that does not need the sun or the moon for light, because God’s glory and the Lamb provide all the light it needs. The verse emphasizes that in this future city, God’s presence replaces all other sources of illumination.

John, the writer of Revelation, is sharing a vision of the New Jerusalem—a symbolic picture of God’s final, perfect dwelling with humanity. He tells his readers that the usual lights of creation (the sun and moon) are unnecessary there, because the radiance of God and the Lamb (a title for Jesus) fills the city with light. This highlights the closeness and sufficiency of God’s presence in the world to come.

The Greek behind Revelation 21:23

• δόξα (doxa, “glory”): This word means brightness, splendor, or honor. In this verse, it points to God’s overwhelming presence as the true source of light, not just a metaphorical glory but a real, illuminating radiance.
• φῶς (phōs, “light”): Used here to describe the Lamb, this word means both literal light and spiritual illumination. The verse links Jesus (the Lamb) directly to the idea of light, showing his role as the one who reveals and sustains life in the city.
• ἔλαμψεν (elampsen, “did lighten”): This verb means to shine or give light. The Greek here carries the sense that God’s glory actively fills and brightens the city, not just passively existing.

Why Revelation 21:23 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that the New Jerusalem is just a better version of earthly cities; instead, it is fundamentally different because God’s presence changes the very nature of life there.
• The focus on God and the Lamb as the only sources of light emphasizes their central role in the new creation, showing that everything needed comes directly from them.
• In the wider context of Revelation 21, this verse helps readers see the fulfillment of God’s promises to dwell with his people in a way that removes all separation and darkness.