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Book of Revelation - Chapter 10 - Verse 9

10:9
And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey.

Meaning

When the speaker in the Book of Revelation went to the angel and asked for the little book, the angel instructed them to eat it. The act of consuming the book symbolizes internalizing the word of God and letting it become a part of one's being. The bittersweet nature of the book - bitter in the belly but sweet in the mouth - represents the dual nature of the message it contains. The bitterness could signify the challenges and hardships one may face when following God's will, while the sweetness represents the joy and fulfillment that comes from living a righteous life. By eating the book, the speaker is preparing themselves for the difficulties and rewards that come with following God's plan. This verse reminds believers of the importance of fully digesting and embodying the teachings of the Bible, even when they may be difficult to accept.

Theological Overview

Revelation 10:9-10 presents a vivid image of the prophet John approaching an angel and asking for a little book. The angel gives him the book, instructing him to eat it. This act of consuming the book is symbolic and carries deep theological significance. The sweetness of the book in John's mouth represents the initial joy and excitement of receiving God's word. However, the bitterness in his belly signifies the challenging and sometimes harsh realities that come with internalizing and living out the teachings of the Bible. This verse serves as a reminder that while God's word can bring joy and comfort, it may also require us to face difficult truths and make sacrifices. By consuming the book, John symbolizes his commitment to fully embracing and living out the message contained within.

American Standard Version

And I went unto the angel, saying unto him that he should give me the little book. And he saith unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but in thy mouth it shall be sweet as honey.
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