Revelation 14:11
And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.
Revelation 14:11 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Revelation describes the consequences for those who choose to worship the beast and his image, as well as those who receive the mark of his name. The imagery used in this verse conveys the idea of eternal suffering and torment for those who go against God's commandments. The mention of "smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever" illustrates the perpetual nature of their punishment. The phrase "no rest day nor night" emphasizes the constant agony and lack of peace for those who have aligned themselves with the beast. Overall, this verse serves as a stark warning about the grave consequences of choosing to worship anything other than God and going against His divine will. It serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful and obedient to God's word.
Theological Overview
Contextualizing the theological interpretation of Revelation 14:11 requires an understanding of the eschatological significance of the verse within the book of Revelation as a whole. The imagery of smoke ascending forever and ever symbolizes the eternal judgment and punishment of those who have aligned themselves with the beast and his image. This verse highlights the consequences of worshiping false idols and rejecting the true God. The phrase "no rest day nor night" emphasizes the perpetual nature of their torment, suggesting an unending suffering for those who have chosen to follow the ways of evil. The mention of receiving the mark of the beast further emphasizes the idea of allegiance and loyalty, indicating that those who have chosen to align themselves with evil will face eternal consequences. This verse serves as a stark warning about the consequences of turning away from God and embracing falsehood.
Revelation 14:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
and the smoke of their torment goeth up for ever and ever; and they have no rest day and night, they that worship the beast and his image, and whoso receiveth the mark of his name.
World English Bible
The smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever. They have no rest day and night, those who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.
Douay-Rheims
And the smoke of their torments, shall ascend up for ever and ever: neither have they rest day nor night, who have adored the beast and his image and whoever receiveth the character of his name.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the smoke of their torment shall ascend euermore: and they shall haue no rest day nor night, which worship the beast and his image, and whosoeuer receiueth the print of his name.