Then the fifth angel sounded his trumpet
The sounding of the fifth trumpet marks the beginning of the first woe, as described in Revelation 8:13. The trumpet judgments are a series of divine interventions that follow the seal judgments, indicating an escalation in the severity of God's wrath. The number five often symbolizes grace in biblical numerology, but here it introduces a period of intense spiritual and physical torment. The role of angels as messengers and executors of God's will is consistent throughout Scripture, as seen in passages like Daniel 8:16 and Luke 1:19.

and I saw a star that had fallen from heaven to earth
The "star" is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of a being, likely an angelic or spiritual entity. The past tense "had fallen" suggests a previous event, possibly alluding to the fall of Satan as described in Isaiah 14:12 and Luke 10:18. Stars are frequently used in biblical literature to symbolize angels or celestial beings, as seen in Job 38:7 and Revelation 1:20. The fall from heaven to earth indicates a transition from a position of authority or purity to one of judgment or rebellion.

and it was given the key to the pit of the Abyss
The "key" signifies authority and control, suggesting that this fallen star is granted permission by God to unlock the Abyss. The Abyss, or bottomless pit, is a place of confinement for demonic forces, referenced in Luke 8:31 and Revelation 20:1-3. The granting of the key indicates that even in judgment, God maintains sovereign control over the forces of evil. The imagery of keys is also seen in Revelation 1:18, where Christ holds the keys of death and Hades, underscoring His ultimate authority over life and death.

The star opened the pit of the Abyss
In biblical symbolism, stars often represent angels or celestial beings. The "star" here is likely an angelic being given authority to open the Abyss, a term used to describe a deep, bottomless pit or a place of confinement for demonic forces. This aligns with other scriptural references to the Abyss as a place of imprisonment for evil spirits (Luke 8:31, Revelation 20:1-3). The act of opening the Abyss signifies a release of judgment or chaos upon the earth, consistent with apocalyptic themes throughout Revelation.

and smoke rose out of it like the smoke of a great furnace
The imagery of smoke rising like a great furnace evokes scenes of destruction and judgment, reminiscent of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:28). Smoke is often associated with divine wrath and the presence of God in judgment (Exodus 19:18). This smoke symbolizes the release of evil and chaos, obscuring clarity and truth, and is a precursor to the plagues and torments described in the following verses.

and the sun and the air were darkened by the smoke from the pit
The darkening of the sun and air signifies a significant disruption in the natural order, often used in prophetic literature to indicate divine judgment (Joel 2:10, Amos 8:9). Darkness is a common biblical metaphor for evil, ignorance, and separation from God (John 3:19-20). This imagery underscores the severity of the judgment being unleashed, affecting both the physical and spiritual realms. The darkening also serves as a type of Christ's crucifixion, where darkness covered the land (Matthew 27:45), symbolizing the weight of sin and judgment borne by Christ.

And out of the smoke
This phrase indicates the origin of the locusts, emerging from the smoke that rises from the abyss, as described earlier in Revelation 9:2. The smoke symbolizes a spiritual darkness or deception, often associated with judgment or the presence of evil. In biblical context, smoke is frequently linked to divine wrath or the presence of God, as seen in Exodus 19:18 during the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. Here, however, it suggests a malevolent force being unleashed upon the earth.

locusts descended on the earth
Locusts in the Bible are often symbols of destruction and judgment, as seen in the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 10:12-15) and the prophecy of Joel (Joel 1:4). These locusts are not ordinary insects but are part of a divine judgment, representing a spiritual or demonic force. The imagery of locusts would have been particularly vivid to ancient readers familiar with the devastation caused by locust swarms in the Middle East.

and they were given power
The phrase indicates that the locusts' ability to harm is not inherent but granted. This suggests divine sovereignty, as God allows these creatures to execute judgment. It reflects the biblical theme that even forces of evil operate under God's ultimate control, as seen in Job 1:12, where Satan is permitted to test Job but within limits set by God.

like that of the scorpions of the earth
Scorpions are known for their painful sting, symbolizing torment and suffering. In the ancient Near East, scorpions were feared for their venomous sting, which could cause intense pain and even death. The comparison to scorpions emphasizes the severity and intensity of the judgment these locusts bring. This imagery is consistent with other biblical references to scorpions as symbols of danger and suffering, such as in Luke 10:19, where Jesus speaks of giving authority over scorpions, symbolizing spiritual adversaries.

They were told not to harm the grass of the earth or any plant or tree
This phrase indicates a specific command given to the locust-like creatures released in the fifth trumpet judgment. Unlike natural locusts, which typically consume vegetation, these creatures are instructed to avoid harming the grass, plants, or trees. This command highlights the supernatural nature of the judgment and suggests a targeted purpose. In biblical symbolism, grass and trees often represent life and prosperity (Isaiah 40:6-8). The restriction emphasizes that the judgment is not ecological but rather spiritual and moral, focusing on humanity rather than the environment.

but only those who did not have the seal of God on their foreheads
This part of the verse identifies the specific targets of the judgment: people who lack the seal of God. The seal of God is a mark of divine protection and ownership, reminiscent of the blood on the doorposts during the Passover (Exodus 12:7, 13) and the sealing of the 144,000 servants of God earlier in Revelation (Revelation 7:3-4). This seal signifies those who belong to God and are under His protection, contrasting with those who follow the beast and receive his mark (Revelation 13:16-17). The sealing indicates a spiritual allegiance and protection from divine wrath, underscoring the theme of divine justice and mercy throughout Revelation.

The locusts were not given power to kill them
In the biblical context, locusts are often associated with destruction and judgment, as seen in the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 10:12-15). However, these locusts are unique in that they are not permitted to kill. This limitation suggests a controlled judgment, emphasizing God's sovereignty even in wrath. The restraint shown here aligns with God's character of mercy, as seen in Lamentations 3:22-23, where His mercies are described as new every morning.

but only to torment them for five months
The five-month period is significant as it corresponds to the typical lifespan of a locust, from May to September in the Middle Eastern climate. This time frame indicates a temporary judgment, not eternal, reflecting God's patience and desire for repentance (2 Peter 3:9). The torment without death echoes the plagues in Egypt, where suffering was intended to lead to repentance and acknowledgment of God's power.

and their torment was like the stinging of a scorpion
The comparison to a scorpion's sting highlights the intense pain and suffering inflicted by these locusts. In the ancient Near East, scorpions were feared for their painful and sometimes deadly sting. This imagery conveys the severity of the judgment. The use of simile here underscores the symbolic nature of the vision, pointing to a spiritual or psychological torment rather than a physical one. This torment can be seen as a precursor to the final judgment, urging repentance and faith in Christ, who offers deliverance from such suffering (John 3:16-18).

In those days
This phrase refers to a specific period during the end times, often interpreted as the Great Tribulation. This is a time of intense suffering and judgment upon the earth, as described in the book of Revelation. The phrase "in those days" is used throughout the Bible to denote significant prophetic periods (e.g., Joel 2:29-31).

men will seek death
The suffering and torment during this period will be so severe that people will desire death as an escape. This reflects the intensity of the plagues and judgments described in Revelation, such as the locusts from the abyss (Revelation 9:3-5). Historically, seeking death in times of extreme distress is not uncommon, as seen in Job 3:21, where Job laments his suffering.

and will not find it
Despite their desire to die, death will elude them. This suggests a supernatural intervention where God prevents death, emphasizing the inescapable nature of divine judgment. It highlights the sovereignty of God over life and death, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:39.

they will long to die
The longing for death underscores the hopelessness and despair that will characterize this period. It is a reversal of the natural human instinct to preserve life, indicating the severity of the tribulation. This longing is reminiscent of the despair expressed by figures like Elijah in 1 Kings 19:4.

but death will escape them
This phrase indicates that death, often seen as a release from suffering, will not be available. It serves as a reminder of the ultimate control God has over life and death, as well as the inescapable nature of His judgment. This can be contrasted with the hope of eternal life offered through Jesus Christ, as seen in John 11:25-26.

And the locusts looked like horses prepared for battle
This imagery draws from Joel 2:4, where locusts are also compared to horses. The description suggests a readiness and strength for warfare, indicating a formidable and organized force. In ancient warfare, horses were symbols of power and speed, often used in chariots and cavalry. The locusts' appearance as horses emphasizes their destructive potential and the terror they bring. This vision may symbolize a spiritual or demonic army unleashed upon the earth, reflecting the chaos and judgment during the end times.

with something like crowns of gold on their heads
The crowns suggest authority and victory, as crowns were often worn by rulers and victors in ancient times. The gold indicates a semblance of divine or kingly power, though it is only "something like" crowns, implying a deceptive or counterfeit nature. This could represent the false authority or deceptive power of the forces of evil during the tribulation period, as they attempt to mimic divine authority.

and their faces were like the faces of men
This human-like feature suggests intelligence and cunning, distinguishing these locusts from ordinary insects. The human face may symbolize the deceptive and persuasive nature of these forces, capable of reasoning and manipulation. It reflects the idea that the spiritual battle involves not just brute force but also psychological and intellectual warfare. This anthropomorphic description aligns with the biblical theme of spiritual entities possessing human-like characteristics, as seen in Genesis 6:2 and Daniel 10:13, where spiritual beings interact with the human realm.

They had hair like that of women
In the context of Revelation 9, this description is part of the vision of the locusts released from the abyss. The imagery of "hair like that of women" suggests a sense of allure or seduction, possibly indicating deception or the ability to entice. In ancient times, long hair was often associated with femininity and beauty, which could symbolize the deceptive nature of these creatures. This imagery might also reflect the cultural norms of the time, where women's hair was considered a significant aspect of their appearance. The seductive nature of these locusts could be a metaphor for false teachings or ideologies that appear attractive but are ultimately destructive.

and teeth like those of lions
The phrase "teeth like those of lions" conveys strength, ferocity, and the ability to cause harm. Lions are often used in the Bible as symbols of power and danger (e.g., 1 Peter 5:8, where the devil is compared to a roaring lion). This imagery suggests that while the locusts may appear alluring, they are also fierce and capable of inflicting great pain. The combination of beauty and brutality in this description highlights the dual nature of the threat they pose. This duality can be seen as a warning against being deceived by appearances, emphasizing the need for discernment. The reference to lions also connects to prophetic imagery found in the Old Testament, such as in the book of Joel, where locusts are described as a powerful army (Joel 1:6).

They also had breastplates like breastplates of iron
This phrase suggests a formidable and impenetrable defense, symbolizing strength and invulnerability. In biblical times, iron was a symbol of strength and durability, often used in warfare. The imagery of breastplates indicates protection and readiness for battle, reflecting the spiritual warfare theme prevalent in Revelation. The use of iron may also allude to the Roman military, known for their iron armor, suggesting a powerful and relentless force. This imagery connects to Ephesians 6:14, where believers are encouraged to wear the "breastplate of righteousness," highlighting the spiritual armor needed to withstand evil.

and the sound of their wings was like the roar of many horses and chariots rushing into battle
The sound described here is overwhelming and terrifying, evoking the chaos and intensity of ancient warfare. Horses and chariots were symbols of military power and speed in the ancient world, often associated with swift and decisive victories. This imagery may remind readers of the Old Testament, where horses and chariots are frequently mentioned in the context of battle (e.g., Exodus 14:7, 1 Kings 20:1). The comparison to the roar suggests an unstoppable force, emphasizing the destructive power of these creatures. This sound could also symbolize the rapid spread of judgment and the inescapable nature of divine retribution, aligning with the apocalyptic themes of Revelation.

They had tails with stingers like scorpions
The imagery of scorpions is significant in biblical literature, often symbolizing danger and judgment. In the ancient Near East, scorpions were feared for their painful and sometimes deadly sting. This description emphasizes the torment and suffering inflicted by these creatures. The use of "tails with stingers" suggests a method of attack that is both unexpected and difficult to defend against, highlighting the relentless nature of the judgment being described. This imagery connects to the locusts in Joel 1:4, where locusts are also used as instruments of divine judgment.

which had the power to injure people
The power to injure indicates a limited but significant authority granted to these creatures. This power is not to kill but to cause suffering, reflecting a period of intense trial and testing. The limitation on their power suggests divine control over the extent of the judgment, aligning with the theme of God's sovereignty throughout Revelation. This echoes the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 10:12-15), where God used natural phenomena to demonstrate His power and call for repentance.

for five months
The specific time frame of five months is noteworthy, as it corresponds to the typical lifespan of a locust from May to September in the Middle East. This period signifies a complete cycle of torment, yet it is temporary, indicating that the suffering has an end. The number five, often associated with grace in biblical numerology, may suggest that even in judgment, there is an opportunity for repentance and redemption. This time limitation is reminiscent of the restraint shown in other biblical judgments, such as the forty days of rain during the flood (Genesis 7:12) or the seventy years of Babylonian captivity (Jeremiah 25:11).

They were ruled by a king
This phrase indicates a structured hierarchy and authority over the locust-like creatures described earlier in the chapter. In biblical context, kingship often symbolizes power and control. The presence of a king suggests that these creatures are not acting chaotically but under a specific command. This can be contrasted with the divine kingship of God, highlighting the organized nature of both divine and demonic realms.

the angel of the Abyss
The Abyss, or bottomless pit, is often associated with a place of confinement for demonic beings (Luke 8:31, Revelation 20:1-3). The angel of the Abyss is a figure of significant authority within this realm, suggesting a powerful and malevolent being. This angel's role as a ruler over the destructive forces aligns with the theme of judgment and chaos unleashed upon the earth during the end times.

His name in Hebrew is Abaddon
Abaddon, meaning "destruction" or "place of destruction" in Hebrew, is often associated with Sheol or the grave (Job 26:6, Proverbs 15:11). In Jewish tradition, Abaddon is sometimes personified as an angel of death or destruction. This name emphasizes the destructive nature of the forces being described and their purpose in the divine plan of judgment.

and in Greek it is Apollyon
Apollyon, meaning "destroyer" in Greek, reinforces the destructive role of this angelic figure. The use of both Hebrew and Greek names may indicate the universal scope of the destruction, affecting both Jewish and Gentile populations. This dual naming also reflects the broader audience of the Book of Revelation, which was intended for a diverse early Christian community familiar with both languages.

This verse, with its emphasis on destruction and judgment, serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare and the ultimate triumph of God's justice over evil.

The first woe has passed.
This phrase refers to the conclusion of the fifth trumpet judgment described earlier in Revelation 9. In the context of Revelation, the "woes" are severe judgments from God upon the earth during the end times. The first woe involved a plague of demonic locusts tormenting those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. This aligns with the biblical theme of divine judgment and protection for God's people, reminiscent of the plagues in Egypt where the Israelites were spared. The use of "woe" is significant in biblical literature, often indicating a pronouncement of judgment or lamentation, as seen in the prophetic books like Isaiah and Jeremiah.

Behold,
The term "behold" is used frequently in Scripture to draw attention to something significant or to emphasize the importance of what follows. It serves as a call to the reader or listener to pay close attention, indicating that the message is of great importance. In the context of Revelation, it underscores the gravity and imminence of the events being described.

two woes are still to follow.
This phrase indicates that the judgments are not yet complete, and there are more severe trials to come. The two remaining woes correspond to the sixth and seventh trumpet judgments. The sixth trumpet involves the release of four angels bound at the Euphrates River, leading to a massive loss of life, while the seventh trumpet introduces the final series of judgments known as the bowl judgments. This progression of woes highlights the increasing intensity of God's judgment as the end times unfold. Theologically, it reflects the concept of God's justice and the fulfillment of prophecy, as well as the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. The anticipation of further woes also serves as a call to repentance and readiness for the return of Christ, a central theme in eschatological teachings.

Then the sixth angel sounded his trumpet
The sounding of the sixth trumpet is part of the series of seven trumpet judgments described in the Book of Revelation. These judgments are a sequence of events that unfold during the end times, each bringing about significant calamities. The number six often symbolizes imperfection or incompleteness in biblical numerology, contrasting with the number seven, which signifies completion or perfection. The sixth trumpet follows the fifth, which unleashed a plague of demonic locusts, and precedes the seventh, which heralds the final series of judgments known as the seven bowls.

and I heard a voice
The voice John hears is not specified, but it is authoritative and commands the release of the four angels bound at the Euphrates River. In biblical literature, a voice from heaven often signifies divine instruction or revelation. This voice could be interpreted as coming from God, an angel, or another heavenly being, emphasizing the divine orchestration of the events that follow.

from the four horns of the golden altar
The golden altar refers to the altar of incense located in the Holy Place of the tabernacle and later the temple. The four horns on the altar were projections at each corner, symbolizing strength and power. In the Old Testament, the altar of incense was associated with the prayers of the people (Exodus 30:1-10). In Revelation, the altar is depicted as being before God, indicating its heavenly counterpart. The mention of the altar connects the events of the sixth trumpet to the prayers of the saints, suggesting that the judgments are, in part, a response to these prayers.

before God
The phrase "before God" emphasizes the divine presence and authority over the unfolding events. It indicates that the altar, and the voice emanating from it, are situated in the heavenly realm, underscoring the sovereignty of God in the execution of judgment. This setting also highlights the holiness and justice of God, as the judgments are carried out in His presence, aligning with His divine will and purpose.

saying to the sixth angel with the trumpet
The sixth angel is part of a series of seven angels who sound trumpets, each heralding a specific judgment or event during the end times. The trumpet judgments are a sequence of divine interventions described in Revelation, each increasing in intensity. The number six often symbolizes imperfection or incompleteness in biblical numerology, contrasting with the number seven, which signifies completion or perfection. The trumpet is a common biblical symbol for announcing significant events, often associated with divine intervention or judgment (e.g., Joshua 6:4-5, 1 Thessalonians 4:16).

“Release the four angels
The command to release the four angels suggests they have been restrained until this specific moment. Angels in the Bible are often seen as messengers or agents of God's will, and their release indicates a divinely appointed time for their mission. The number four can symbolize universality or completeness in the earthly realm, as seen in the four corners of the earth or the four winds (e.g., Isaiah 11:12, Matthew 24:31). These angels are likely to be agents of judgment, as their release is associated with the subsequent events of destruction and woe.

who are bound
The fact that these angels are bound implies they are not free to act until God's appointed time. This binding suggests a limitation placed upon them by divine authority, indicating that their power is controlled and only unleashed according to God's sovereign plan. The binding of spiritual beings is also seen in other biblical contexts, such as the binding of Satan (Revelation 20:2).

at the great river Euphrates
The Euphrates River is one of the most significant rivers in the Bible, often associated with the boundaries of the Promised Land (Genesis 15:18) and the cradle of early civilization. It is a geographical marker that has historical and prophetic significance. In ancient times, the Euphrates was a formidable natural barrier and a boundary between empires, such as Assyria and Babylon. Its mention here may symbolize a boundary or transition point for the unfolding of end-time events. The Euphrates is also associated with the rise and fall of empires, and its drying up is mentioned later in Revelation as a preparation for the kings of the East (Revelation 16:12), indicating its continued prophetic importance.

So the four angels
These angels are distinct from the seven angels with trumpets and the angelic beings around God's throne. They are bound at the Euphrates, indicating a specific and significant role in God's plan. The number four often symbolizes universality or completeness in the Bible, suggesting a comprehensive impact on the earth.

who had been prepared
This preparation indicates divine foreknowledge and sovereignty. God has a specific plan and timing for these angels, emphasizing His control over the unfolding of end-time events. This preparation aligns with the biblical theme of God's meticulous planning, as seen in Ephesians 1:11.

for this hour and day and month and year
The specificity of the timing underscores the precision of God's plan. It reflects the biblical theme of appointed times, similar to the prophecy in Daniel 9:24-27, where specific timeframes are given for future events. This precision assures believers of God's ultimate control over history.

were released
The release of these angels signifies a transition from restraint to action, highlighting a shift in God's judgment. This release parallels the concept of God allowing certain events to unfold, as seen in Job 1:12, where God permits Satan to test Job within set boundaries.

to kill a third of mankind
This severe judgment reflects the gravity of humanity's rebellion against God. The fraction "a third" indicates a significant but not total destruction, suggesting a warning and a call to repentance. This echoes the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 7-11), where judgments served as both punishment and a call to acknowledge God's sovereignty.

And the number of mounted troops was two hundred million;
This phrase describes an immense army, symbolizing overwhelming force and power. The number "two hundred million" is often interpreted symbolically rather than literally, representing an innumerable multitude. In biblical numerology, large numbers often signify completeness or vastness beyond human comprehension. The imagery of mounted troops suggests a formidable and swift military force, reminiscent of ancient cavalry units known for their speed and effectiveness in battle. Historically, the use of cavalry was a significant advancement in warfare, and their mention here underscores the severity of the judgment being described. This vast army can be seen as a representation of divine judgment, echoing the locust army in Joel 2, which also symbolizes an unstoppable force of destruction.

I heard their number.
The phrase emphasizes the certainty and precision of the number, as it is not merely seen but heard by the apostle John. This auditory confirmation suggests divine revelation, ensuring the reader understands the significance and reality of the vision. In biblical literature, hearing often signifies receiving a message directly from God, as seen in the prophetic books where prophets frequently "hear" the word of the Lord. This detail underscores the authority and authenticity of the vision, as John is not relying on his own perception but on a divinely communicated truth. The emphasis on hearing also connects to the broader theme in Revelation of the importance of listening to God's message, as seen in the repeated exhortation, "He who has an ear, let him hear."

Now the horses and riders in my vision looked like this:
This phrase introduces a vivid and symbolic vision, typical of apocalyptic literature. The imagery is not meant to be taken literally but to convey deeper spiritual truths. The vision is part of the series of judgments unleashed by the sounding of the sixth trumpet, emphasizing the severity and divine origin of these events.

The riders had breastplates the colors of fire, sapphire, and sulfur:
The breastplates symbolize protection and readiness for battle. The colors—fire, sapphire, and sulfur—are significant. Fire often represents judgment and purification in Scripture (e.g., Malachi 3:2-3). Sapphire, a blue stone, can symbolize heaven or divine revelation (Exodus 24:10). Sulfur, or brimstone, is associated with divine wrath and destruction (Genesis 19:24). Together, these colors suggest a divine and fearsome force executing judgment.

The heads of the horses were like the heads of lions:
Lions are symbols of strength, power, and ferocity (Proverbs 30:30). The lion-like heads of the horses indicate the terrifying and unstoppable nature of this judgment. This imagery may also connect to the lion of the tribe of Judah (Revelation 5:5), suggesting that the judgment is under Christ's authority.

and out of their mouths proceeded fire, smoke, and sulfur:
The elements of fire, smoke, and sulfur are reminiscent of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:24-28), symbolizing complete and utter devastation. This triad of destructive forces indicates the comprehensive nature of the judgment. Fire purifies and consumes, smoke obscures and suffocates, and sulfur is a symbol of divine wrath. This imagery underscores the seriousness of the consequences for those who oppose God.

A third of mankind was killed
This phrase indicates a significant portion of the world's population being affected, emphasizing the severity of the judgment. The fraction "a third" is symbolic of a partial but substantial judgment, reflecting God's restraint in not allowing total destruction. This echoes earlier judgments in Revelation, such as the trumpet judgments, where a third of various elements are affected (Revelation 8:7-12). It serves as a warning and a call to repentance, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the need for divine justice.

by the three plagues
The term "plagues" connects to the plagues of Egypt in Exodus, where God used plagues as instruments of judgment and deliverance. In Revelation, plagues are a recurring theme, symbolizing divine retribution and the fulfillment of prophetic warnings. These plagues are part of the trumpet judgments, which are designed to lead humanity to repentance and acknowledge God's sovereignty.

of fire, smoke, and sulfur
These elements are reminiscent of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:24), where fire and sulfur were used as instruments of divine judgment. Fire, smoke, and sulfur are often associated with hell and eternal punishment (Revelation 14:10-11, 20:10), symbolizing the consuming and purifying nature of God's judgment. They also reflect the imagery of volcanic activity, which would have been familiar to the ancient audience, symbolizing sudden and overwhelming destruction.

that proceeded from their mouths
This phrase suggests that the source of the plagues is the demonic cavalry described earlier in Revelation 9:17. The imagery of something proceeding from the mouth can symbolize the power of words and commands, as seen in the creative and destructive power of God's word (Genesis 1, Revelation 19:15). It also reflects the deceptive and destructive nature of false teachings and lies, which can lead to spiritual and physical death.

For the power of the horses was in their mouths and in their tails;
This phrase highlights the dual nature of the destructive power possessed by these symbolic horses. In biblical symbolism, the mouth often represents speech or proclamation, suggesting that the power in their mouths could symbolize deceptive or destructive messages. The tails, likened to snakes, indicate a hidden, insidious danger. This duality of power can be seen as a representation of both overt and covert forms of spiritual or physical attack. The imagery of horses with such power may also connect to the four horsemen of the apocalypse earlier in Revelation, who bring various forms of judgment upon the earth.

indeed, their tails were like snakes,
The comparison of the tails to snakes evokes the image of the serpent in Genesis, which is often associated with Satan and deception. This imagery suggests that the harm inflicted by these creatures is not only physical but also spiritual, involving deceit and leading people away from truth. Snakes in the ancient world were often seen as symbols of danger and cunning, reinforcing the idea of a subtle, yet deadly threat.

having heads with which to inflict harm.
The presence of heads on the tails emphasizes the intentional and directed nature of the harm caused. This could symbolize false teachings or ideologies that lead people astray, as heads often represent authority or leadership. The ability to inflict harm suggests a period of intense spiritual warfare or tribulation, aligning with the broader themes of judgment and testing found throughout Revelation. This imagery may also connect to the prophetic warnings in the Old Testament about false prophets and leaders who mislead the people of God.

Now the rest of mankind who were not killed by these plagues
This phrase refers to the survivors of the catastrophic events described earlier in Revelation 9, specifically the plagues unleashed by the sixth trumpet. These plagues are part of a series of divine judgments meant to lead humanity to repentance. The context is apocalyptic, with imagery that echoes the plagues of Egypt in Exodus, serving as a divine warning. The "rest of mankind" indicates a significant portion of humanity that remains after a period of intense suffering and death.

still did not repent of the works of their hands
Despite witnessing the severity of God's judgments, the survivors persist in their sinful behaviors. "The works of their hands" is a biblical idiom often used to describe idolatry and the creation of idols (e.g., Isaiah 2:8, Jeremiah 1:16). This phrase underscores the stubbornness and hardness of human hearts, a recurring theme in Scripture where people refuse to turn away from sin even in the face of divine intervention.

They did not stop worshiping demons
This highlights the spiritual blindness and deception prevalent among the people. Worshiping demons suggests a deeper spiritual rebellion against God, aligning with the forces of evil. In 1 Corinthians 10:20, Paul warns that sacrifices to idols are, in fact, sacrifices to demons. This connection emphasizes the spiritual warfare aspect of idolatry and the influence of demonic forces in leading people away from God.

and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood
The mention of materials used for idols reflects the ancient practice of crafting physical representations of deities. These materials are often associated with wealth and status, indicating that idolatry is not only a spiritual issue but also tied to materialism and human pride. The prophets frequently condemned such practices (e.g., Isaiah 44:9-20, Jeremiah 10:3-5), highlighting the futility of worshiping man-made objects.

which cannot see or hear or walk
This phrase underscores the impotence and lifelessness of idols, contrasting them with the living God who sees, hears, and acts. The futility of idol worship is a common biblical theme, as seen in Psalm 115:4-7 and Isaiah 46:6-7. These passages mock the idea that inanimate objects could possess divine attributes or offer any real help, emphasizing the foolishness of turning away from the true God.

Furthermore, they did not repent
This phrase highlights the persistent hardness of heart among those who experience the judgments described in Revelation. The call to repentance is a central theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing God's desire for humanity to turn from sin and seek forgiveness (2 Peter 3:9). The refusal to repent despite witnessing divine judgments echoes the stubbornness of Pharaoh in Exodus, who repeatedly hardened his heart against God’s signs and wonders.

of their murder
Murder, the unlawful taking of life, is condemned throughout Scripture, beginning with the commandment "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13). In the context of Revelation, this may refer to both literal acts of violence and the spiritual murder of hatred (1 John 3:15). The prevalence of murder in the end times reflects a society that has rejected God's law and embraced chaos and lawlessness.

sorcery
The term "sorcery" is translated from the Greek word "pharmakeia," which can refer to the use of drugs, potions, or magical arts. In the ancient world, sorcery was often associated with idolatry and the manipulation of spiritual forces. The Bible consistently condemns such practices (Deuteronomy 18:10-12), as they represent a reliance on powers other than God. This highlights the spiritual deception prevalent in the end times.

sexual immorality
Sexual immorality encompasses a range of behaviors outside the boundaries of biblical sexual ethics, which are rooted in the covenant of marriage between a man and a woman (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:4-6). The prevalence of such immorality in Revelation reflects a society that has abandoned God's design for human relationships, paralleling the moral decline seen in the days of Noah and Lot (Luke 17:26-30).

and theft
Theft, the act of taking what does not belong to oneself, violates the commandment "You shall not steal" (Exodus 20:15). In the context of Revelation, theft may symbolize not only physical stealing but also the broader injustice and exploitation characterizing the end times. This reflects a world where materialism and greed have supplanted righteousness and justice.

Each of these sins represents a rejection of God's commandments and a refusal to acknowledge His authority. The persistence in these behaviors despite divine warnings underscores the depth of human rebellion and the need for divine intervention to restore righteousness.