Revelation 21:25 (KJV)

What does Revelation 21:25 mean?

Revelation 21:25 describes how, in the New Jerusalem, the city’s gates will never be closed during the day, because there will be no night there. This means access to the city is always open and there is no need for protection or fear.

John, the author of Revelation, is sharing a vision of the future city of God, speaking to early Christians who faced danger and uncertainty. In ancient cities, gates were shut at night for safety, but here, the absence of night and the ever-open gates show a place of complete security, peace, and welcome.

The Greek behind Revelation 21:25

• ἡμέρα (hēmera, “day”): This word emphasizes that the gates are open during the day, but the verse immediately adds that there will be no night, so “day” is unending.
• νύξ (nyx, “night”): The Greek word for “night” highlights that darkness, danger, and uncertainty—often associated with night—are completely absent in this city.
• πύλαι (pylai, “gates”): Gates in ancient times were symbols of security and control. Here, the Greek word points to the idea that these gates are never closed, underlining the city’s safety and openness.

Why Revelation 21:25 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that God’s city is exclusive or closed off; instead, it is always open, showing God’s welcome and the safety of His presence.
• The detail about “no night” connects to the wider passage’s theme of God’s light and the end of all things that threaten or harm.
• Understanding the ancient practice of closing city gates at night helps modern readers see how radical and comforting this promise would have sounded to the first hearers.