Much of Revelation’s mystique relates to John’s use of pictures or symbols. There is a Lamb who is a Lion. There is a dragon, a woman sitting on seven hills, a beast like a leopard with horns, and more. John draws many images from the Old Testament, especially from its tabernacle and temple. All these images and their meanings are intriguing.
Before we delve deeper, let’s discuss symbols and truth. Based on Revelation 5:5, is Jesus “the Lion of Judah”? Well, we would have to answer both “Yes” and “No.” No, Jesus is not a literal lion with four legs and fur. Yes, Jesus is “the Lion” in the sense of the symbol’s meaning: He is powerful and kingly!
Symbols are not meant to be taken literally, and when we make them literal, we make mistakes. To take Revelation 5:5 literally is to turn Jesus into an animal. Each symbol has its meaning that gives us insight. Jesus is “the Lion” in the sense that He has traits like a lion. More than that, since the symbol is taken from the Old Testament, it reminds us that Jesus is royalty, fulfilling the prophecy of Genesis 49:9-10. Some symbols, like the lion image, have obvious meanings. Interpreting others requires more research.
Below you will find a brief exercise about objects in Revelation. For each object, decide whether that object should be taken literally or figuratively. “Literally” means “in the normal sense.” This normal sense is often physical because we are used to earthly things. As you also know, “figuratively” means that the object “represents something else.” It has a symbolic meaning that needs to be interpreted. As you do the exercise, you may wish to write for yourself a brief explanation. Why do you choose “literally” or why do you choose “figuratively”?
Bible references are given so that you can check the context in each case. Try this little puzzle because it relates directly to the music of Revelation, and you will want to arrive at your own answers.