And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?

REVELATION 7:13KJV
Know the Bible

Revelation 7:13 (KJV)

What does Revelation 7:13 mean?

Revelation 7:13 describes one of the elders in John’s vision asking John about the identity and origin of a group of people dressed in white robes. The elder’s question draws attention to these people and sets up an explanation about who they are and why they are significant.

In the scene, John is witnessing a heavenly vision, and the elder—one of the respected figures around God’s throne—turns to him with this question. The focus on the people “arrayed in white robes” highlights their special status, and the elder’s inquiry invites John (and the reader) to pay close attention to their story in the verses that follow.

Why Revelation 7:13 matters

  • The elder’s question signals to the reader that the identity of the people in white robes is important and not immediately obvious, encouraging careful attention to the explanation that follows.
  • This verse marks a turning point in the vision, shifting from what John sees to an interpretation of what it means, which is a common pattern in apocalyptic literature.
  • The question also emphasizes that understanding who belongs among the redeemed is central to the message of Revelation 7, connecting the vision to themes of salvation, perseverance, and hope.

Where else these words appear

“robes” Greek G4749 · used in 8 verses

  • Mark 12:38 And he said unto them in his doctrine, Beware of the scribes, which love to go in long clothing, and love salutations in the marketplaces,
  • Luke 15:22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
  • Revelation 6:11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

“white” Greek G3022 · used in 23 verses

  • Matthew 5:36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.
  • John 20:12 And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.
  • Revelation 4:4 And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.

“in” Greek G4016 · used in 24 verses

  • Matthew 6:29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
  • Luke 12:27 Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
  • Revelation 7:9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;

“whence” Greek G4159 · used in 26 verses

  • Matthew 13:27 So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?
  • Luke 1:43 And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
  • John 6:5 When Jesus then lifted up his eyes, and saw a great company come unto him, he saith unto Philip, Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?