Revelation 5:9 (KJV)

What does Revelation 5:9 mean?

Revelation 5:9 describes a group singing a new song to Jesus, declaring Him worthy to take the scroll and open its seals because He was killed and, by His blood, purchased people for God from every family, language, people group, and nation. This verse highlights Jesus’ unique worthiness based on His sacrificial death and the worldwide scope of those He has redeemed.

In this scene, heavenly beings are singing to Jesus (the Lamb) in the throne room of God. The “new song” celebrates what Jesus accomplished through His death—He is the only one worthy to open the mysterious scroll, a symbol of God’s plan. The song emphasizes that Jesus’ sacrifice brings together people from all backgrounds, not just one group.

The Greek behind Revelation 5:9

• “New” (καινὴν, kainēn): This word means “fresh” or “never heard before.” The song is not just another hymn, but something unique, marking a new moment in God’s plan.
• “Redeemed” (ἠγόρασας, ēgorasas): This word comes from the idea of buying in the marketplace. It pictures Jesus’ death as paying a price to set people free for God.
• “Every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation” (ἐκ πάσης φυλῆς καὶ γλώσσης καὶ λαοῦ καὶ ἔθνους, ek pasēs phylēs kai glōssēs kai laou kai ethnous): The Greek lists four different ways to describe all humanity, stressing that Jesus’ redemption is truly global and not limited to any one group.

Why Revelation 5:9 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that Jesus’ sacrifice was only for a select group; instead, it stresses that people from every background are included.
• The focus on Jesus being “worthy” connects to the earlier question in Revelation about who can open the scroll, showing that only Jesus’ self-giving love qualifies Him.
• The “new song” marks a turning point in the story, celebrating a new phase in God’s plan where redemption is offered to all peoples through Jesus.