Commentary on Revelation 6:5
Text of Revelation 6:5 (KJV): "And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo, a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand."
Introduction
The Book of Revelation, traditionally attributed to the Apostle John, presents a vivid and symbolic narrative that captures the struggles and ultimate victory of the Christian faith. In Revelation 6:5, we witness the opening of the third seal and the appearance of a black horse, which carries significant implications for understanding divine judgment and human experience during tumultuous times.
Symbolism of the Black Horse
The black horse represents famine and scarcity, as suggested by the context of the passage. Both Matthew Henry and Albert Barnes highlight the implications of the black horse in relation to economic hardships that often accompany periods of divine judgment.
- Matthew Henry: Emphasizes the connection of the horse's color to mourning and scarcity. The black color serves to denote a time of great hardship, possibly relating to the spiritual state of the world at the time of the tribulation.
- Albert Barnes: Points out that balances are tools used in commerce, symbolizing weighing out food; thus, this imagery supports the idea of famine where food must be weighed carefully—indicative of scarcity.
- Adam Clarke: Adds that the balances in the rider's hand signify the careful distribution of resources, as famine and deprivation necessitate such measures.
The Rider and the Balance
The figure riding the black horse, holding a pair of balances, embodies the principle of justice and the consequences of human actions. His presence suggests that divine justice often comes through the suffering induced by human irresponsibility and wickedness.
- Matthew Henry: Notes that the scales not only reflect economic measures but also divine judgment, indicating that the hunger of the populace is both physical and spiritual.
- Albert Barnes: Affirms that the balances also remind the reader of God's justice—every action has its reaction, and the spiritual and material state of humanity leads to divine responses.
Theological Implications
The image of famine, represented by the black horse and its rider, serves as a forewarning. It urges believers to consider the impact of sin and complacency on their lives and the world. The scarcity represented here is both literal and metaphorical—pointing towards spiritual depravity and a lack of guidance from God.
- Matthew Henry: Expresses that the condition of the world often showcases the judgments of God against sin, emphasizing the need for repentance.
- Adam Clarke: Suggests that understanding this passage compels Christians to respond to spiritual hunger with sustenance from the Word of God, as spiritual famine is prevalent.
Pastoral Applications
This passage holds significant implications for pastors and church leaders. It serves as a reminder of their role in feeding the flock spiritually and economically. They must be vigilant about the tangible needs of their congregations while also nurturing their spiritual lives.
- Practical Engagement: Leaders are called to confront issues of poverty and injustice within their communities, embodying the compassion of Christ.
- Spiritual Nourishment: Emphasizes the necessity for pastors to both teach sound doctrine and demonstrate practical love for those experiencing both material and spiritual famine.
Conclusion
Revelation 6:5 invites deep reflection on the interplay between divine justice and human experience. The black horse and its rider serve as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for vigilance in both spiritual and physical matters. As we navigate the implications of this passage, may we be ever diligent in our pursuit of justice, truth, and compassion, empowered by the Holy Spirit to be agents of change in our worlds.
