Quick Facts on the Book of Revelation
The Book of Revelation is perhaps one of the most unusual books of the Bible, and it has captured the imaginations of both Christians and non-Christians alike. Understanding the historical context in which the book was written, as well as the literary elements it employs, is helpful in understanding the imagery and language used in this rich Scriptural text.
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General Description
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The Book of Revelation is the last book of the New Testament in its canonical form (that is, in the form that is accepted by most Christians). It uses symbolic elements such as numbers, colors and places to depict events, and is considered an apocalyptic work of literature, according to Dennis Bratcher's article "Interpreting the Book of Revelation." The book recounts the visions granted to the apostle John. Some of these famous images include the seven seals, the fall of Babylon and the bridal feast in the heavenly Jerusalem.
Authorship
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The author of the Book of Revelation is John, who is an exile living on the island of Patmos. Many of the early church fathers believe that he was the same person as the apostle John. However, some believe the writing style of Revelation suggests that the two are not in fact the same, according to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, although it is possible that the author of Revelation was an apostle of John.
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Date Written
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The exact dates of the Book of Revelation's appearance are not known and much disputed. However, there is general agreement that it was written around the reign of the Roman emperor Domitian (81-96 AD), one of the most brutal persecutors of Christians. At this time, Christians were being harshly treated, and the Book of Revelation depicts this intense persecution in symbolic language. It is also speculated that the book was written during the reign of Nero.
Significance
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The Book of Revelation's apocalyptic and symbolic language has resulted in a vast array of interpretations. The events depicted are often considered to be an illustration of the early Christian persecutions, but the symbolism is also interpreted quite literally, suggesting that the Book is really about the end of the world, and that the events it describes will occur. Some Christians do not accept the Book of Revelation as canonical, and the decision to accept it in the final list of canonical books was highly controversial, according to the article "Meander Travel: Book of Revelation."
Relevance Today
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The Book of Revelation remains of interest to both religious and historical scholars today, as well as popular culture. Movies, books and music have been written about the Book of Revelation, such as the popular Left Behind series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Clarence Larkin, 1919
