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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Revelation 1:20 This is the mystery of the seven stars you saw in My right hand and of the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/revelation/1-20.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/11/66_Rev_01_20.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Revelation 1:20 - John's Vision on Patmos" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="This is the mystery of the seven stars you saw in My right hand and of the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; 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The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches. <a href="/nkjv/revelation/1.htm">New King James Version</a> The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches. <a href="/nasb_/revelation/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> As for the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/nasb/revelation/1.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8220As for the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/nasb77/revelation/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a> “As for the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/lsb/revelation/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> As for the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/amp/revelation/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a> As for the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: the seven stars are the angels (divine messengers) of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/csb/revelation/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> The mystery of the seven stars you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. The Letters to the Seven Churches <a href="/hcsb/revelation/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> The secret of the seven stars you saw in My right hand and of the seven gold lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/asv/revelation/1.htm">American Standard Version</a> the mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks are seven churches. <a href="/cev/revelation/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I will explain the mystery of the seven stars you saw at my right side and the seven gold lampstands. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/erv/revelation/1.htm">English Revised Version</a> the mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks are seven churches. <a href="/gwt/revelation/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> The hidden meaning of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and the seven gold lamp stands is this: The seven stars are the messengers of the seven churches, and the seven lamp stands are the seven churches. <a href="/gnt/revelation/1.htm">Good News Translation</a> Here is the secret meaning of the seven stars that you see in my right hand, and of the seven gold lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/isv/revelation/1.htm">International Standard Version</a> The secret meaning of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and the seven gold lamp stands is this: the seven stars are the messengers of the seven churches, and the seven lamp stands are the seven churches." <a href="/msb/revelation/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> This is the mystery of the seven stars you saw in My right hand and of the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/net/revelation/1.htm">NET Bible</a> The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/nheb/revelation/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lampstands. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches. The seven lampstands are seven churches. <a href="/wbt/revelation/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches. <a href="/wey/revelation/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> the secret meaning of the seven stars which you have seen in My right hand, and of the seven lampstands of gold. The seven stars are the ministers of the seven Churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven Churches. <a href="/web/revelation/1.htm">World English Bible</a> The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lamp stands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven assemblies. The seven lamp stands are seven assemblies. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/revelation/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> the secret of the seven stars that you have seen on My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: the seven stars are messengers of the seven assemblies, and the seven lampstands that you have seen are seven assemblies.” <a href="/blb/revelation/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> the mystery of the seven stars, which you saw on My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/ylt/revelation/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> the secret of the seven stars that thou hast seen upon my right hand, and the seven golden lamp-stands: the seven stars are messengers of the seven assemblies, and the seven lamp-stands that thou hast seen are seven assemblies. <a href="/slt/revelation/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest upon my right hand, and the seven golden chandeliers. The seven stars are the messengers of the seven churches: and the seven chandeliers which thou sawest are the seven churches.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/revelation/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> The mystery of the seven stars, which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches. And the seven candlesticks are the seven churches. <a href="/cpdv/revelation/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> the mystery of the seven stars, which you have seen in my right hand, and of the seven golden lampstands. The seven stars are the Angels of the seven Churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven Churches.” <a href="/nabre/revelation/1.htm">New American Bible</a> This is the secret meaning of the seven stars you saw in my right hand, and of the seven gold lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. <a href="/nrsvce/revelation/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> As for the mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/revelation/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks are the seven churches. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/revelation/1.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand and the seven menorahs: the seven stars are the Messengers of the seven assemblies, and the seven menorahs of gold which you saw are the seven assemblies. <div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/revelation/1.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches; and the seven candle sticks are the seven churches. <a href="/godbey/revelation/1.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> <FR>and the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven golden candlesticks are the seven churches.<Fr> <a href="/haweis/revelation/1.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> the mystery of the seven stars which thou seest in my right hand, and the seven golden lamps. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lamps which thou seest are the seven churches.<CM> <a href="/mace/revelation/1.htm">Mace New Testament</a> the conceal'd meaning of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand, and of the seven golden candlesticks, is this: the seven stars signify the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which you saw, signify the seven churches. <a href="/wey/revelation/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> the secret meaning of the seven stars which you have seen in My right hand, and of the seven lampstands of gold. The seven stars are the ministers of the seven Churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven Churches. <a href="/worrell/revelation/1.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> <FR>the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of seven assemblies; and the seven candlesticks are seven assemblies."<Fr> <a href="/worsley/revelation/1.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> As to<FR> the mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right <Fr>hand,<FR> and the seven golden candlesticks; the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.<Fr> <a href="/parallel/revelation/1-20.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LJfD7KQcx0I?start=220" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/revelation/1.htm">John's Vision on Patmos</a> …19Therefore write down the things you have seen, and the things that are, and the things that will happen after this. 20<a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-NNS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">This is the</a> <a href="/greek/3466.htm" title="3466: mystērion (N-NNS) -- From a derivative of muo; a secret or mystery.">mystery</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of the</a> <a href="/greek/2033.htm" title="2033: hepta (Adj-GMP) -- Seven. A primary number; seven.">seven</a> <a href="/greek/792.htm" title="792: asterōn (N-GMP) -- A star. Probably from the base of stronnumi; a star, literally or figuratively.">stars</a> <a href="/greek/3739.htm" title="3739: hous (RelPro-AMP) -- Who, which, what, that. "></a> <a href="/greek/3708.htm" title="3708: eides (V-AIA-2S) -- Properly, to stare at, i.e. to discern clearly; by extension, to attend to; by Hebraism, to experience; passively, to appear.">you saw</a> <a href="/greek/1909.htm" title="1909: epi (Prep) -- On, to, against, on the basis of, at. ">in</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">My</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/1188.htm" title="1188: dexias (Adj-GFS) -- On the right hand, right hand, right. From dechomai; the right side or hand.">right hand</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tas (Art-AFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of the</a> <a href="/greek/2033.htm" title="2033: hepta (Adj-AFP) -- Seven. A primary number; seven.">seven</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tas (Art-AFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5552.htm" title="5552: chrysas (Adj-AFP) -- Golden, made of gold, adorned with gold. From chrusos; made of gold.">golden</a> <a href="/greek/3087.htm" title="3087: lychnias (N-AFP) -- A lamp-stand. From luchnos; a lamp-stand.">lampstands:</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hoi (Art-NMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">The</a> <a href="/greek/2033.htm" title="2033: hepta (Adj-NMP) -- Seven. A primary number; seven.">seven</a> <a href="/greek/792.htm" title="792: asteres (N-NMP) -- A star. Probably from the base of stronnumi; a star, literally or figuratively.">stars</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: eisin (V-PIA-3P) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">are</a> <a href="/greek/32.htm" title="32: angeloi (N-NMP) -- From aggello; a messenger; especially an angel; by implication, a pastor.">the angels</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of the</a> <a href="/greek/2033.htm" title="2033: hepta (Adj-GFP) -- Seven. A primary number; seven.">seven</a> <a href="/greek/1577.htm" title="1577: ekklēsiōn (N-GFP) -- From a compound of ek and a derivative of kaleo; a calling out, i.e. a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation.">churches,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hai (Art-NFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/2033.htm" title="2033: hepta (Adj-NFP) -- Seven. A primary number; seven.">seven</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hai (Art-NFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3087.htm" title="3087: lychniai (N-NFP) -- A lamp-stand. From luchnos; a lamp-stand.">lampstands</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: eisin (V-PIA-3P) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">are</a> <a href="/greek/2033.htm" title="2033: hepta (Adj-NFP) -- Seven. A primary number; seven.">the seven</a> <a href="/greek/1577.htm" title="1577: ekklēsiai (N-NFP) -- From a compound of ek and a derivative of kaleo; a calling out, i.e. a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation.">churches. </a> <div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/daniel/8-20.htm">Daniel 8:20-22</a> The two-horned ram that you saw represents the kings of Media and Persia. / The shaggy goat represents the king of Greece, and the large horn between his eyes is the first king. / The four horns that replaced the broken one represent four kingdoms that will rise from that nation but will not have the same power. <a href="/zechariah/4-2.htm">Zechariah 4:2-6</a> “What do you see?” he asked. “I see a solid gold lampstand,” I replied, “with a bowl at the top and seven lamps on it, with seven spouts to the lamps. / There are also two olive trees beside it, one on the right side of the bowl and the other on its left.” / “What are these, my lord?” I asked the angel who was speaking with me. ... <a href="/matthew/13-11.htm">Matthew 13:11</a> He replied, “The knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. <a href="/matthew/13-41.htm">Matthew 13:41</a> The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will weed out of His kingdom every cause of sin and all who practice lawlessness. <a href="/matthew/16-19.htm">Matthew 16:19</a> I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” <a href="/matthew/18-18.htm">Matthew 18:18</a> Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. <a href="/luke/8-10.htm">Luke 8:10</a> He replied, “The knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to others I speak in parables, so that, ‘though seeing, they may not see; though hearing, they may not understand.’ <a href="/john/1-1.htm">John 1:1-5</a> In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. / He was with God in the beginning. / Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made. ... <a href="/john/8-12.htm">John 8:12</a> Once again, Jesus spoke to the people and said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.” <a href="/john/12-35.htm">John 12:35-36</a> Then Jesus told them, “For a little while longer, the Light will be among you. Walk while you have the Light, so that darkness will not overtake you. The one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going. / While you have the Light, believe in the Light, so that you may become sons of light.” After Jesus had spoken these things, He went away and was hidden from them. <a href="/acts/1-7.htm">Acts 1:7</a> Jesus replied, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by His own authority. <a href="/acts/2-3.htm">Acts 2:3</a> They saw tongues like flames of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. <a href="/1_corinthians/12-28.htm">1 Corinthians 12:28</a> And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, and those with gifts of healing, helping, administration, and various tongues. <a href="/ephesians/3-5.htm">Ephesians 3:5</a> which was not made known to men in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. <a href="/ephesians/5-8.htm">Ephesians 5:8</a> For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light,</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which you saw are the seven churches.mystery.<a href="/matthew/13-11.htm">Matthew 13:11</a> He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.<a href="/luke/8-10.htm">Luke 8:10</a> And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.the seven stars.<a href="/revelation/1-13.htm">Revelation 1:13,16</a> And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle… the seven golden.<a href="/revelation/1-12.htm">Revelation 1:12</a> And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks;The seven stars.<a href="/revelation/2-1.htm">Revelation 2:1,8,12,18</a> Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; … <a href="/revelation/3-1.htm">Revelation 3:1,7,14</a> And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead… <a href="/malachi/2-7.htm">Malachi 2:7</a> For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts.and the.<a href="/zechariah/4-2.htm">Zechariah 4:2</a> And said unto me, What seest thou? And I said, I have looked, and behold a candlestick all of gold, with a bowl upon the top of it, and his seven lamps thereon, and seven pipes to the seven lamps, which are upon the top thereof:<a href="/matthew/5-15.htm">Matthew 5:15,16</a> Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house… <a href="/philippians/2-15.htm">Philippians 2:15,16</a> That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/jude/1-9.htm">Angels</a> <a href="/revelation/1-11.htm">Assemblies</a> <a href="/revelation/1-12.htm">Burning</a> <a href="/revelation/1-13.htm">Candlesticks</a> <a href="/revelation/1-11.htm">Churches</a> <a href="/revelation/1-13.htm">Gold</a> <a href="/revelation/1-13.htm">Golden</a> <a href="/revelation/1-17.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/revelation/1-13.htm">Lampstands</a> <a href="/galatians/3-16.htm">Meaning</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-11.htm">Messengers</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-10.htm">Ministers</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-16.htm">Mystery</a> <a href="/revelation/1-17.htm">Right</a> <a href="/revelation/1-19.htm">Sawest</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-12.htm">Secret</a> <a href="/revelation/1-16.htm">Seven</a> <a href="/revelation/1-16.htm">Stars</a> <a href="/revelation/1-12.htm">Vessels</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/revelation/3-5.htm">Angels</a> <a href="/revelation/2-7.htm">Assemblies</a> <a href="/revelation/4-5.htm">Burning</a> <a href="/revelation/2-1.htm">Candlesticks</a> <a href="/revelation/2-7.htm">Churches</a> <a href="/revelation/3-18.htm">Gold</a> <a href="/revelation/2-1.htm">Golden</a> <a href="/revelation/2-1.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/revelation/2-1.htm">Lampstands</a> <a href="/revelation/17-7.htm">Meaning</a> <a href="/revelation/3-5.htm">Messengers</a> <a href="/exodus/28-35.htm">Ministers</a> <a href="/revelation/10-7.htm">Mystery</a> <a href="/revelation/2-1.htm">Right</a> <a href="/revelation/17-8.htm">Sawest</a> <a href="/revelation/2-23.htm">Secret</a> <a href="/revelation/2-1.htm">Seven</a> <a href="/revelation/2-1.htm">Stars</a> <a href="/revelation/2-27.htm">Vessels</a><div class="vheading2">Revelation 1</div>1. <a href="/revelation/1-1.htm">The preface.</a> 4. <a href="/revelation/1-4.htm">John's salutation to the seven churches of Asia.</a> 7. <a href="/revelation/1-7.htm">The coming of Christ.</a> 8. <a href="/revelation/1-8.htm">His glorious power and majesty.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/revelation/1.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/revelation/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/revelation/1.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>This is the mystery of the seven stars you saw in My right hand and of the seven golden lampstands: The term "mystery" in biblical context often refers to a divine truth that is revealed by God. The imagery of stars and lampstands is symbolic, with stars often representing heavenly beings or messengers, and lampstands symbolizing light and presence. The right hand signifies power and authority, indicating that the stars are under Christ's sovereign control. The lampstands, reminiscent of the menorah in the Tabernacle (<a href="/exodus/25-31.htm">Exodus 25:31-40</a>), symbolize the churches' role to be light-bearers in the world.The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: The "angels" here can be interpreted as literal angelic beings assigned to each church, or as human messengers or leaders of the churches. The number seven is significant in biblical literature, often symbolizing completeness or perfection. The churches mentioned are located in Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey, and were real congregations facing specific challenges. The use of "stars" suggests guidance and protection, emphasizing the divine oversight of the churches.and the seven lampstands are the seven churches: The lampstands represent the seven churches addressed in Revelation chapters 2 and 3. Each church is called to be a light in its respective community, reflecting the light of Christ. The imagery of lampstands underscores the responsibility of the churches to maintain their witness and purity. This symbolism connects to Jesus' teaching in <a href="/matthew/5-14.htm">Matthew 5:14-16</a>, where believers are called to be the light of the world. The presence of Christ among the lampstands (<a href="/revelation/1-13.htm">Revelation 1:13</a>) assures His continual presence and support for the churches.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/john_the_apostle.htm">John the Apostle</a> The author of the Book of Revelation, who received the vision while exiled on the island of Patmos. 2. <a href="/topical/j/jesus_christ.htm">Jesus Christ</a> The one revealing the vision to John, holding the seven stars and walking among the seven lampstands. 3. <a href="/topical/s/seven_stars.htm">Seven Stars</a> Represent the angels or messengers of the seven churches. 4. <a href="/topical/s/seven_golden_lampstands.htm">Seven Golden Lampstands</a> Symbolize the seven churches in Asia Minor. 5. <a href="/topical/s/seven_churches.htm">Seven Churches</a> The specific churches addressed in Revelation chapters 2 and 3, located in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/u/understanding_symbolism.htm">Understanding Symbolism</a> Recognize the importance of symbols in Revelation. The stars and lampstands are not literal but represent spiritual truths about leadership and the church's role. <a href="/topical/r/role_of_the_church.htm">Role of the Church</a> The church is called to be a light in the world, reflecting Christ's presence and truth. Each church, like a lampstand, has a unique role in its community. <a href="/topical/l/leadership_and_accountability.htm">Leadership and Accountability</a> The "angels" or messengers of the churches may represent leaders who are accountable to Christ for their guidance and teaching. <a href="/topical/c/christ's_sovereignty.htm">Christ's Sovereignty</a> Jesus holds the stars in His right hand, symbolizing His authority and care over the church and its leaders. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_vigilance.htm">Spiritual Vigilance</a> The imagery calls believers to be vigilant in maintaining their witness and faithfulness, as the lampstands are under Christ's watchful eye.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_revelation_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Revelation 1</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_an_abomination.htm">What do the seven lampstands in Revelation represent?</a> <a href="/q/who_are_the_seven_church_angels.htm">Who or what are the angels of the seven churches?</a> <a href="/q/what_do_the_7_lampstands_symbolize.htm">What do the seven lampstands in Revelation represent?</a> <a href="/q/what_do_the_7_stars_in_revelation_mean.htm">What do the seven stars in Revelation represent?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/revelation/1.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(20) The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand.--Having bidden him write the meaning of this mystery, or secret, He gives to St. John an explanatory key: "The seven stars are angels of seven churches (or congregations): and the seven candlesticks" (omit the words "which thou sawest") "are seven churches." The angels have been understood by some to be guardian angels; but it is difficult to reconcile words of warning and reproof (as in <a href="/context/revelation/2-4.htm" title="Nevertheless I have somewhat against you, because you have left your first love.">Revelation 2:4-5</a>), and of promise and encouragement (as in <a href="/revelation/2-10.htm" title="Fear none of those things which you shall suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that you may be tried; and you shall have tribulation ten days: be you faithful to death, and I will give you a crown of life.">Revelation 2:10</a>), with such a view. More probable is the view which takes the angel to be the ideal embodiment (so to speak) of the Church. The more generally adopted view is that the angel is the chief pastor or bishop of the Church. The description of them as stars favours this view. Similar imagery is applied elsewhere to teachers, true and false (<a href="/daniel/12-3.htm" title="And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.">Daniel 12:3</a>; <a href="/jude/1-13.htm" title="Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever.">Jude 1:13</a>. Comp. <a href="/revelation/8-10.htm" title="And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell on the third part of the rivers, and on the fountains of waters;">Revelation 8:10</a>; <a href="/revelation/12-4.htm" title="And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.">Revelation 12:4</a>). It is stated that the word "angel" was applied to the president in the Jewish synagogue. See, however, Excursus A. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/revelation/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 20. - The mystery. In construction this is the accusative after "write." A mystery is the opposite of a revealed truth; it is a sacred truth kept secret, the inner meaning of something which is perceived, but not generally understood. The angels of the seven Churches. The meaning of these "angels" has been very much disputed. The common explanation that they are the bishops of the Churches is attractive on account of its simplicity. But it has very grave difficulties, especially for those who assign the Apocalypse to the earlier date of A.D. . It is highly improbable that at that very early time the seven Churches were already so fully organized as each to possess its own bishop. And granting that they were, and that the bishops might fitly be called "angels" or "messengers," would they not be called messengers of God or of Christ, rather than messengers of the Churches"? And would not the primitive Church have preserved this title as a synonym for "bishop"? "St. John's own language gives the true key to the symbolism. 'The seven stars are the angels of the seven Churches, and the seven candlesticks are the seven Churches.' This contrast between the heavenly and the earthly fires - the star shining steadily by its own inherent eternal light, and the lamp flickering and uncertain, requiring to be fed with fuel and tended with care - cannot be devoid of meaning. The star is the suprasensual counterpart, the heavenly representative; the lamp, the earthly realization, the outward embodiment. Whether the angel is here conceived as an actual person, the celestial guardian, or only as a personification, the idea or spirit of the Church, it is unnecessary for my present purpose to consider. But whatever may be the exact conception, he is identified with and made responsible for the Church to a degree wholly unsuited to any human officer. Nothing is predicated of him which may not be predicated of it. To him are imputed all its hopes, its fears, its graces, its shortcomings, he is punished with it, and he is rewarded with it ... Nor is this mode of representation new. The 'princes' in Daniel (<a href="/daniel/10-13.htm">Daniel 10:13, 20, 21</a>) present a very near if not an exact parallel to the angels of the Revelation" (Bishop Lightfoot, 'Philippians,' p. 198). The identification of the angel of each Church with the Church itself is shown in a marked way by the fact that, although each epistle is addressed to the angel, yet the constantly recurring refrain is, "Hear what the Spirit saith to the Churches," not "to the angels of the Churches." The angel and the Church are the same under different aspects: the one is its spiritual character personified; the other is the congregation of believers who collectively possess this character. <a href="/commentaries/revelation/1-20.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>[This is] the τὸ (to) Article - Nominative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. mystery μυστήριον (mystērion) Noun - Nominative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3466.htm">Strong's 3466: </a> From a derivative of muo; a secret or 'mystery'. of the τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. seven ἑπτὰ (hepta) Adjective - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2033.htm">Strong's 2033: </a> Seven. A primary number; seven. stars ἀστέρων (asterōn) Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_792.htm">Strong's 792: </a> A star. Probably from the base of stronnumi; a star, literally or figuratively. you saw εἶδες (eides) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3708.htm">Strong's 3708: </a> Properly, to stare at, i.e. to discern clearly; by extension, to attend to; by Hebraism, to experience; passively, to appear. in ἐπὶ (epi) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1909.htm">Strong's 1909: </a> On, to, against, on the basis of, at. My μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. right hand δεξιᾶς (dexias) Adjective - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1188.htm">Strong's 1188: </a> On the right hand, right hand, right. From dechomai; the right side or hand. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. of the τὰς (tas) Article - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. seven ἑπτὰ (hepta) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2033.htm">Strong's 2033: </a> Seven. A primary number; seven. golden χρυσᾶς (chrysas) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5552.htm">Strong's 5552: </a> Golden, made of gold, adorned with gold. From chrusos; made of gold. lampstands: λυχνίας (lychnias) Noun - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3087.htm">Strong's 3087: </a> A lamp-stand. From luchnos; a lamp-stand. The οἱ (hoi) Article - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. seven ἑπτὰ (hepta) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2033.htm">Strong's 2033: </a> Seven. A primary number; seven. stars ἀστέρες (asteres) Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_792.htm">Strong's 792: </a> A star. Probably from the base of stronnumi; a star, literally or figuratively. are εἰσίν (eisin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. [the] angels ἄγγελοι (angeloi) Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_32.htm">Strong's 32: </a> From aggello; a messenger; especially an 'angel'; by implication, a pastor. of the τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. seven ἑπτὰ (hepta) Adjective - Genitive Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2033.htm">Strong's 2033: </a> Seven. A primary number; seven. churches, ἐκκλησιῶν (ekklēsiōn) Noun - Genitive Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1577.htm">Strong's 1577: </a> From a compound of ek and a derivative of kaleo; a calling out, i.e. a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. the αἱ (hai) Article - Nominative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. seven ἑπτὰ (hepta) Adjective - Nominative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2033.htm">Strong's 2033: </a> Seven. A primary number; seven. lampstands λυχνίαι (lychniai) Noun - Nominative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3087.htm">Strong's 3087: </a> A lamp-stand. From luchnos; a lamp-stand. are εἰσίν (eisin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. [the] seven ἑπτὰ (hepta) Adjective - Nominative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2033.htm">Strong's 2033: </a> Seven. A primary number; seven. churches. ἐκκλησίαι (ekklēsiai) Noun - Nominative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1577.htm">Strong's 1577: </a> From a compound of ek and a derivative of kaleo; a calling out, i.e. a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/revelation/1-20.htm">Revelation 1:20 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/revelation/1-20.htm">Revelation 1:20 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/revelation/1-20.htm">Revelation 1:20 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/revelation/1-20.htm">Revelation 1:20 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/revelation/1-20.htm">Revelation 1:20 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/revelation/1-20.htm">Revelation 1:20 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/revelation/1-20.htm">Revelation 1:20 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/revelation/1-20.htm">Revelation 1:20 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/revelation/1-20.htm">Revelation 1:20 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/revelation/1-20.htm">Revelation 1:20 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/revelation/1-20.htm">NT Prophecy: Revelation 1:20 The mystery of the seven stars which (Rev. Re Apocalypse)</a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/revelation/1-19.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Revelation 1:19"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Revelation 1:19" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/revelation/2-1.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Revelation 2:1"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Revelation 2:1" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>