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Book of Revelation - Chapter 16 - Verse 4

16:4
And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountains of waters; and they became blood.

Meaning

Revelation 16:4 describes the third angel pouring out his vial upon the rivers and fountains of waters, causing them to become blood. This imagery is symbolic and represents a divine judgment against those who have rejected God and have chosen to follow the ways of evil. The turning of the waters into blood is reminiscent of the plagues of Egypt in the book of Exodus, where the Nile River was turned into blood as a punishment for the Pharaoh's defiance of God. By turning the waters into blood, God is showing his power and authority over all creation, demonstrating that he is the ultimate judge who will bring consequences to those who continue to rebel against him. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance and obedience to God.

Theological Overview

In the book of Revelation, the pouring out of the third vial by the third angel results in a shocking and drastic transformation of the rivers and fountains of waters into blood. This apocalyptic imagery has deep theological significance, symbolizing the judgment and wrath of God upon those who have rebelled against Him. The turning of water into blood echoes the biblical motif of divine judgment, as seen in the plagues of Egypt in the book of Exodus. This event serves as a warning to those who continue to reject God and his commandments, illustrating the consequences of sin and disobedience. The word "blood" in this verse signifies not only physical blood but also the idea of punishment and retribution. It symbolizes the severity of God's judgment upon the unrepentant and emphasizes the importance of repentance and faith in God. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for reconciliation with God before it is too late.

American Standard Version

And the third poured out his bowl into the rivers and the fountains of the waters; and it became blood.
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