and among the lampstands was One like the Son of Man, dressed in a long robe, with a golden sash around His chest.
And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.
and in the midst of the lampstands was one like a son of man. He was dressed in a robe extending down to his feet and he wore a wide golden belt around his chest.
καὶ ἐν μέσῳ τῶν λυχνιῶν ὅμοιον υἱὸν ἀνθρώπου, ἐνδεδυμένον ποδήρη, καὶ περιεζωσμένον πρὸς τοῖς μαστοῖς ζώνην χρυσᾶν.
kai en mesō ton lychnion homoion huion anthrōpou, endedumenon podērē, kai periezōsmenon pros tois mastois zonēn chrusan.
The imagery of "lampstands" in Revelation is rich with symbolism. In the ancient world, lampstands were used to hold lamps that provided light, symbolizing the presence of God and His truth. The Greek word for lampstand, "λυχνία" (lychnia), is used here to represent the seven churches mentioned earlier in Revelation. The presence of Christ "among the lampstands" signifies His intimate relationship and active presence within the church. Historically, this reflects the role of the church as the light of the world, tasked with spreading the Gospel and illuminating the darkness with the truth of Christ.
The phrase "Son of Man" is deeply rooted in both the Old and New Testaments. In Greek, "υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου" (huios tou anthrōpou) is a title Jesus frequently used for Himself, emphasizing His humanity and His role as the prophesied Messiah. This title is also a direct reference to Daniel 7:13, where the "Son of Man" is depicted as a divine figure given authority and glory. In Revelation, this imagery underscores the dual nature of Christ as both fully human and fully divine, serving as a bridge between God and humanity.
The "long robe" signifies dignity, authority, and priesthood. The Greek word "ποδήρης" (podērēs) refers to a garment reaching down to the feet, often worn by priests in the Old Testament (Exodus 28:4). This attire highlights Christ's role as our High Priest, who intercedes on behalf of humanity before God. It also reflects His kingly authority, as long robes were worn by royalty, symbolizing majesty and honor.
The "golden sash" is a symbol of high status and purity. In Greek, "ζώνην χρυσᾶν" (zōnēn chrysan) indicates a belt or girdle made of gold, which was a mark of wealth and nobility. In the context of Revelation, this golden sash signifies Christ's divine authority and His role as the eternal High Priest. Gold, being a precious metal, also represents the purity and incorruptibility of Christ's nature and His eternal priesthood, as described in Hebrews 7:24-25. This imagery reassures believers of Christ's sovereign power and His ongoing intercession for His people.
Revelation, the last book of the New Testament, is a highly symbolic and prophetic text attributed to John the Apostle. The imagery in Revelation 1:13 introduces us to a figure "like a son of man," which evokes a connection to both the Old Testament and the Gospels.
The phrase "one like a son of man" is significant. It harkens back to the Old Testament, specifically Daniel 7:13, where Daniel sees a vision of "one like a son of man" coming with the clouds of heaven. This figure is often interpreted as the Messiah. In the New Testament, Jesus frequently referred to Himself as the "Son of Man," which aligns Him with this prophesied figure. Thus, this description in Revelation emphasizes the divine and messianic identity of Jesus Christ.
The “lampstands” mentioned symbolize the seven churches addressed in Revelation 1:20. The presence of Jesus among the lampstands signifies His active and ongoing relationship with His church. It reassures the believers of His presence and concern for their spiritual state.
The long robe is a symbol of dignity and authority. It is reminiscent of the garments worn by high priests in the Old Testament (Exodus 28:4). This imagery suggests Jesus’ role as the ultimate High Priest who intercedes on behalf of humanity. It also emphasizes His purity and righteousness.
A golden sash around the chest indicates royalty and priesthood. In ancient times, gold was a sign of wealth and status, and wearing it around the chest (rather than the waist) symbolizes a position of honor and power. This emphasizes Jesus' divine kingship and His supreme authority.
Christ’s Presence: The vision in Revelation 1:13 assures believers that Jesus is in their midst, especially during times of trial and persecution. It conveys His ongoing engagement and oversight of the church.
Revelation 1:13 is a rich and symbolic verse that connects the reader to both Old Testament prophecy and the New Testament fulfillment in Christ. It reassures the early church of Christ's divine presence, His intercessory work, and His supreme authority. This imagery serves to encourage and strengthen believers, reminding them of the majesty and ongoing work of Jesus Christ in their lives.
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