Topical Encyclopedia The term "half-an-hour" is specifically mentioned in the Bible in the context of the Book of Revelation. It appears in Revelation 8:1, which states: "When the Lamb opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour." Context and Interpretation The Book of Revelation, attributed to the Apostle John, is a prophetic text rich with symbolism and apocalyptic imagery. The opening of the seventh seal is a pivotal moment in the narrative, marking a transition in the unfolding of divine judgment and the revelation of God's ultimate plan for humanity. The "half-an-hour" of silence in heaven is a unique and intriguing detail. In the context of Revelation, this silence follows the dramatic events associated with the opening of the first six seals, which include various forms of judgment and tribulation upon the earth. The silence can be seen as a pause or a moment of solemn anticipation before the next series of judgments, represented by the sounding of the seven trumpets. Symbolic Significance The silence lasting "about half an hour" has been interpreted in various ways by theologians and biblical scholars. Some view it as a period of divine reflection or a moment of awe in the heavenly realm, emphasizing the gravity of the events that are about to unfold. Others suggest it represents a time of intercession, where the prayers of the saints are being considered before God. In the broader biblical narrative, silence often precedes significant divine action. For example, in the Old Testament, silence is sometimes associated with the presence of God or a prelude to His intervention (e.g., Habakkuk 2:20, Zephaniah 1:7). Thus, the half-hour of silence in Revelation can be seen as a profound moment of expectancy and reverence. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the half-hour of silence underscores the sovereignty and majesty of God. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of divine judgment and the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The silence invites believers to reflect on the holiness of God and the importance of being spiritually prepared for the unfolding of His purposes. Additionally, the specific mention of "half-an-hour" highlights the precision and intentionality of God's timing. It suggests that every moment in the divine plan is significant and purposeful, even those that may seem brief or inconsequential from a human perspective. Conclusion While the half-hour of silence in Revelation 8:1 is a brief mention, it carries deep symbolic and theological weight. It invites readers to pause and consider the magnitude of God's plan and the reverence due to Him as the sovereign Lord of history. Greek 2256. hemiorion -- half an hour ... half an hour. Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter Transliteration: hemiorion Phonetic Spelling: (hay-mee-o'-ree-on) Short Definition: half an hour Definition: half an ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2256.htm - 6k Library Apprenticeship Customs The Noviceship Furthermore, as to the Proposal Subjoined to Your Epistle... At the Governor's House Note on the Morning Watch. The Seventh Seal. The Meaning of the Seventh Seal, that Is, of the Seven Trumpets. How Wesley Dealt with a Mob Extraordinary Trances "I am Become an Honorable Man" Thesaurus Half-an-hour (1 Occurrence)Half-an-hour. Half-acre, Half-an-hour. Half-blind . Multi-Version Concordance Half-an-hour (1 Occurrence). Revelation ... /h/half-an-hour.htm - 6k Undone (20 Occurrences) Openeth (48 Occurrences) Seventh (123 Occurrences) Space (98 Occurrences) Stamp (25 Occurrences) Silence (80 Occurrences) Half (135 Occurrences) Half-acre (1 Occurrence) Half-blind (1 Occurrence) Resources Why is there silence in heaven for half an hour in Revelation 8:1? | GotQuestions.orgWhat time was Jesus crucified? What time did Jesus die on the cross? | GotQuestions.org Did Jesus lie to His brothers in John 7:8 10? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Half-an-hour (1 Occurrence)Revelation 8:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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