Revelation 16:10
And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain,
Revelation 16:10 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain," from the book of Revelation, describes a dramatic scene of divine judgment being poured out on the kingdom of the beast. This verse is part of a series of vials being poured out as part of the apocalyptic events leading to the final battle between good and evil. The imagery of darkness symbolizes chaos and despair, highlighting the consequences of wickedness and rebellion against God. The intense pain and suffering described in this verse serve as a warning of the consequences of aligning oneself with evil forces. The gnawing of tongues for pain emphasizes the severity of the punishment that awaits those who choose to follow the beast. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of remaining faithful in the face of adversity.
Theological Overview
In the book of Revelation, the pouring out of the fifth vial by the fifth angel brings about a disturbing scene where darkness envelops the kingdom of the beast. This darkness symbolizes the spiritual blindness and confusion that reign over the followers of the beast. The mention of gnawing their tongues for pain indicates the torment and suffering experienced by those who have aligned themselves with the forces of evil. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of choosing to follow the ways of the world instead of the path of righteousness. Through theological interpretation, we can understand this passage as a warning against straying from God's light and falling into the deception and despair that come with living a life devoid of His grace.
Revelation 16:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the fifth poured out his bowl upon the throne of the beast; and his kingdom was darkened; and they gnawed their tongues for pain,
World English Bible
The fifth poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and his kingdom was darkened. They gnawed their tongues because of the pain,
Douay-Rheims
And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast. And his kingdom became dark: and they gnawed their tongues for pain.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the fifth Angel powred out his viall vpon the throne of the beast, and his kingdome waxed darke, and they gnawed their tongues for sorowe,