Bible Question: What are the seven seals? |
Bible Answer: Paul in his vision on the island of Patmos states that he "saw in the right hand of the one seated on the throne a scroll written on the inside and on the back it was sealed with seven seals." (Rev 5:1) The seven seals were all forms of judgement and are the first of three seven-part judgements. Each seal is opened by Christ and sets in motion the events that will an end to human history. The contents of the scroll reveal mans corrupt and perverted morals and show Gods authority over the events of human history. The seven seals contain the following: Seal 1: A white horse with the rider carrying a bow and a crown. It came out to conquer. Seal 2: A bright red horse - it's rider was allowed to take peace from the world. Seal 3: A black horse with the rider holding a pair of scales in its hand. The scale symbolizes a scarcity of food. Seal 4: A pale green horse, its rider's name was Death and Hades followed with him. They will kill 1/4 of the worlds population. Seal 5: Tells of the cries of the slain tribulation martyrs. They were each given a white robe and told to wait a little longer. Seal 6: Opening of this seal will produce a mighty earthquake, the moon will become red, the stars of the sky will fall, and the sun will darken. The sky will vanish and every mountain and island will be moved. Seal 7: There will be 1/2 hour pause before the judgement of the 7th seal. 7 trumpets were given to 7 angels standing before the throne. Another angel came and was given a great quantity of incense to offer with the prayers of the saints. Then the angel took the censer filled it with fire from the altar and threw it on the earth and there was thunder, lightning and an earthquake. Seals 1-6 are found in Revelations 6, Seal 7 is found in Revelation 8. |