Revelation 15:5–8
The Seven Angels and Seven Bowls
John sees the heavenly sanctuary opened—the tent of testimony. Seven angels come out, carrying the seven plagues.
They wear clean, bright linen and golden sashes around their chests.
One of the four living creatures gives them seven golden bowls, full of the wrath of God, who lives forever and ever.
The sanctuary fills with smoke
Smoke fills the sanctuary from God's glory and power. No one can enter until the seven plagues of the seven angels are completed.
The bowls are received here. Their pouring begins in chapter 16. This room shows preparation for what follows.
Understand the words
A sanctuary is a holy place. The tent of testimony recalls the biblical tabernacle, associated with God's presence and covenant.
Plagues are severe afflictions or disasters. In this vision, the bowls contain God's wrath: his anger against evil.
Pause and notice
How many angels and bowls does John describe? What fills the sanctuary?
Look back at the passage
There are seven angels and seven golden bowls. Smoke from God's glory and power fills the sanctuary.
Explore the Scripture and artwork
The linen, golden chest sashes, bowls, and smoke follow the passage. The wings, faces, staircase, and architecture are artistic choices.
John says one of the four living creatures gives the bowls. This passage does not identify which creature. The lion-like appearance here is an artistic choice.
Christians differ on how these visions relate to historical events. This exhibit follows John's narrative without assigning dates.
Read Revelation 15:5–8 ↗Scripture opens in a new tab.
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