What does Revelation 21:17 mean?
"And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel." - Revelation 21:17

Revelation 21:17 (KJV) states, "And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel."
The book of Revelation is the final book of the New Testament and is commonly attributed to the Apostle John. It is a highly symbolic and apocalyptic text, filled with vivid imagery and visions of the end times and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. The verse in question comes from a passage describing the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city that is the dwelling place of God and the redeemed.
The imagery of measuring the wall of the city with a specific measurement, 144 cubits, speaks to the precision and attention to detail in the construction of the city. The use of the number 144 is highly significant, as it is a multiple of 12, the number that represents divine authority and governance. In this context, 144 cubits can be seen as a symbol of the perfect and complete nature of the city, indicating that it is a place of divine order and perfection.
The mention of the measurement "according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel" also holds great significance. This implies that the measurement of the city is in line with human standards, but also reflects the divine nature of the city, as it is measured "of the angel". This suggests that the New Jerusalem is a place where the divine and human realms intersect, where the divine order is perfectly aligned with human experience.
The symbolism of the New Jerusalem itself is rich and multi-layered. It represents the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises, a place of eternal peace, joy, and fellowship with God. It is also a place of perfect justice and righteousness, where there is no more pain, suffering, or death. The precise measurement of the city's wall reflects the meticulous care and attention to detail with which God has prepared this glorious dwelling place for his people.
The significance of the number 144 carries through the entire book of Revelation, where it is used to represent both the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 apostles, symbolizing the complete and unified people of God. This reinforces the idea that the New Jerusalem is a place of perfect unity and harmony, where all are included and none are excluded.
In a broader context, this verse can be seen as a powerful reminder of the ultimate hope and destiny of the Christian faith. It serves as a source of comfort and encouragement, particularly in times of trial and tribulation. It reminds believers that the present difficulties and struggles are temporary, and that God has prepared an eternal and perfect home for those who place their trust in him.
Overall, Revelation 21:17 is a deeply symbolic verse that conveys the divine order and perfection of the New Jerusalem, as well as the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to his people. It serves as a powerful affirmation of hope and assurance for believers, and a reminder of the ultimate triumph of good over evil in the divine plan.
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Revelation 21:17 Artwork
Revelation 21:17 - "And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel."
"And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel." - Revelation 21:17
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