# Mirror Images: Daniel and Revelation
Striking parallels emerge when comparing the visions of Daniel 12 and Revelation 10. In both accounts instructions are given to keep specific words secret (Daniel 12:4, Revelation 10:4). Angels with raised hands swear oaths in the name of the eternal God (Daniel 12:7, Revelation 10:5-6). Both prophecies emphasize a culminating "finish" for the events described (Daniel 12:7, Revelation 10:7). These similarities suggest an intriguing possibility that Revelation 10 might be echoing Daniel 12.
If these two prophecies reference the same moment in the stream of time it aligns the "time, times, and half a time" of Daniel 12 with the "delay" mentioned in Revelation 10. It means the events prophesied by Daniel and John are not isolated, but rather chapters in a larger narrative unfolding towards a grand climax. The period of "delay" has ended, and we now stand on the cusp of the events leading towards the "finish" prophesied in both Daniel 12 and Revelation 10. In the previous section, we placed the conclusion of the "time, times, and half a time" of Daniel 12 in the fall of 2019. With this in mind, its possible that we have crossed a crucial threshold. This realization compels us to take a closer look at Revelation and its implications for the present day.
# The Trumpets of Revelation
John's enigmatic vision in Revelation 10 seems to hold a hidden key to understanding the unfolding drama of the last days. The angel's solemn proclamation, "There will be no delay any longer." (Revelation 10:6), marks a pivotal turning point. I've proposed that the end of the "delay" signifies the culmination of the "time, times, and half a time" mentioned in Daniel 12:7. The period that preceeds the end of the "delay" began in the fall of 1914, signaling the entrance into the "last days." But the angel doesn't stop there. He further specifies that the days following the delay are the "days when the seventh angel is about to blow his trumpet" (Revelation 10:7).
This statement is not merely a passing detail, but a crucial clue that unlocks a deeper understanding of the prophetic sequence. By placing the events after the delay in relation to the first six trumpets, John provides a valuable chronological framework. To dig deeper into this connection, let us start with the following assumptions. The prophetic events following trumpets 1 through 5 begin unfolding as the last days begin around the fall of 1914. The time frame associated with these events, characterized as a "delay", spans 1,260 prophetic days. This period culminates with the sounding of the sixth trumpet in the fall of 2019.
Based on these assumptions, the "delay" is punctuated by the sixth trumpet, ushering in the "days" leading up to the seventh trumpet. This realization sheds light on the urgency and significance of the present. We are no longer spectators observing distant prophecies; we are participants standing on the threshold of momentous events. The seventh trumpet looms large on the horizon, and the events prophesied by Daniel and John are now unfolding before our eyes.
# Unveiling the Transition: From Locusts to Horses
As we delve deeper into the prophetic tapestry of Revelation with this understanding, chapter 9 emerges as a pivotal chapter, pointing towards a significant upheaval in the existing world order. This chapter unfolds the narrative through the fifth and sixth trumpets, each accompanied by potent symbols that reveal a profound shift in the course of history.
Following the fifth trumpet, a swarm of locusts emerges, their tails armed with the sting of scorpions. These locusts represent the existing world order, established in the fall of 1914 at the dawn of the "last days." Their presence denotes a period of turmoil, foreshadowing the impending transformation.
With the sixth trumpet, the scene shifts dramatically. A cavalry of horses emerges, bearing the chilling image of serpents for tails. This powerful symbolism marks the arrival of a new world order, replacing the one established earlier, poised to reshape the landscape of global affairs.
The transition from locusts to horses symbolizes a fundamental shift in the existing power structures. The established order gives way to a new paradigm, ushering in an era of significant transformations. This prophetic vision urges us to recognize the unfolding events and contemplate their profound implications for the future.
# From Predatory Heads to Lion-Headed Leaders: Unveiling the Symbolism of Heads and Tails
The meticulous detail in Revelation 9 regarding the "heads" and "tails" of the locusts and horses following the fifth and sixth trumpets reveals a deeper layer of meaning. This imagery, when examined through the lens of Deuteronomy 28:12, 13, and 44, where "head" and "tail" represent the prevailing power structure, offers valuable insights into the nature of the transitioning world orders.
In the aftermath of the fifth trumpet, the locusts' heads posess "teeth like those of lions," symbolizing leaders within the existing world order who exhibit predatory tendencies. The sharp teeth suggest a focus on self-interest and potential exploitation, reflecting the shortcomings and flaws of the established system. Following the sixth trumpet, a stark contrast emerges. The horses are depicted with heads entirely lion-like, signifying a transformation in leadership. This shift from teeth like lions to heads like lions indicates a dramatic change in character for those leading. Leaders become wholly predatory and driven by the unscrupulous pursuit of power and dominance.
This potent symbolism underscores the transition from an existing world order with leaders possessing some predatory tendencies to a new one where leadership is entirely dominated by those who are inherently and ruthlessly predatory. This shift marks a significant turning point, ushering in a new era with far-reaching consequences.
By understanding the symbolism of the "heads" and "tails" in the context of Revelation 9 and Deuteronomy 28, we gain a deeper understanding of the changing nature of power and leadership in the unfolding world scene. This knowledge equips us to better navigate the complexities of the present and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.
# From Scorpion Stings to Serpent Bites: Unveiling the Anguish of the "Tail"
The detailed imagery of Revelation 9 extends beyond the heads of the creatures, weaving a deeper narrative through the symbolism of their tails. In the context of Deuteronomy 28:12, 13, and 44, the "tail" represents the collective of people at the bottom of the world order, entirely dependent on and at the mercy of the "head" for survival and prosperity. This dependency fosters a dynamic where the "head" exploits its power, using the "tail" to reinforce its position and inflicting anguish, hardship, and oppression upon those below.
Following the fifth trumpet, the locusts possess scorpion tails, a chilling image depicting the collective suffering endured by individuals within the existing world order. The scorpion's sting symbolizes the pain and hardship inflicted by the established system, leaving individuals vulnerable and helpless. By following, cooperating with and supporting the basic forces and ideologies of this world order individuals become participants in the perpetuation of this suffering for themselves and others.
However, the sixth trumpet unleashes a significant shift. The horses, representing the emergent world order, are depicted with serpent tails, a symbol far more potent than the scorpion's sting. This transformation foreshadows an intensification of the suffering endured by individuals. The serpent signifies an even greater level of anguish, hardship, and oppression imposed by the new forces and ideologies emanating from the top down.
This transition from scorpion tails to serpent tails underscores the increasing severity of human suffering under the emerging world order.
# From Consuming Locusts to Battling Horses: Unveiling the Shifting Paradigms
The transition from locusts to horses in Revelation 9 marks a seismic shift in the underlying principles governing the world order. The locust, a creature renowned for its calamitous and voracious consumption, aptly represents the existing world order. Its dominance symbolizes a societal system driven by insatiable appetites and a relentless pursuit of resources, regardless of the consequences.
With the sixth trumpet, the horses, symbols of military might and conflict, thunder onto the scene. This dramatic shift underscores a fundamental change in the guiding forces of the world. Consumption, while still prevalent, is no longer the sole governing principle. In its place, warfare and conflict emerge as the driving forces shaping the landscape of the substitutive world order.
The juxtaposition of these creatures paints a stark picture of contrasting paradigms. From the locusts' insatiable hunger to the horses' unyielding power, Revelation 9 offers a glimpse into a future where conflict and struggle replace consumption as the dominant forces shaping global affairs. It serves as a stark warning, urging individuals to critically examine the systems they subscribe to and align themselves with something better.
# Wilderness Creatures in Deuteronomy 8 and Revelation 9
A fascinating connection emerges when we compare the creatures encountered by the Israelites during their 40 years in the wilderness with those depicted in Revelation 9. At Deuteronomy 8:15, Moses states that God led the Israelites through a "great and fearsome wilderness" filled with "poisonous serpents and scorpions." This description evokes a sense of danger and hardship, resonating with the symbolic imagery found in Revelation 9. Is this simply a coincidence, or could there be a deeper connection?
The parallels are striking. In both instances, the creatures carry the ability to bite or sting, seemingly signifying hardship. Moreover, both situations allude to periods of testing and transformation. Consider the possibility that these creatures are not random occurrences but deliberate symbols woven into a larger narrative.
This realization invites us to delve deeper into the scriptures. I invite you to join me as we explore the connections within the scriptures.
# A Stinging Journey: Scorpions in the Wilderness and Revelation
The Israelites' 40-year exodus from Egypt was a period marked by a recurring encounter with a particular creature: the scorpion. Their journey began in the Wilderness of Zin, a region likely known for its abundance of these venomous arachnids, as evidenced by its proximity to an upward ascent with a peculiar name, "Akrabbim," meaning "scorpions." This association with scorpions continued throughout their trek, culminating in their second arrival at the Wilderness of Zin just before entering the Promised Land.
Moses' description of the Israelites dwelling among "serpents and scorpions" (Deuteronomy 8:15) is therefore particularly poignant. Their time in the wilderness was literally bookended by scorpion-infested regions, underscoring the constant threat and hardship they faced. Notably, even the route they sought to use to enter Edom, Akrabbim, was likely known for its scorpion population, further solidifying the connection between these creatures and the Israelites' experience.
This pervasive presence of scorpions and Moses' calling attention to this situation compels us to consider a possible parallel with the symbolic language of Revelation 9. The fifth trumpet blast unleashes a swarm of locusts with "tails like scorpions" (Revelation 9:10), suggesting a link between the literal scorpions encountered by the Israelites and the figurative representation of hardship in the last days.
# Serpents in the Wilderness and Revelation: Echoing Hardship and Protection
The Israelites' journey through the wilderness was not only punctuated by the sting of scorpions but also marked by encounters with serpents. Numbers 21:6-9 recounts a harrowing experience where "poisonous serpents" plagued the Israelites, inflicting bites and causing death. This event, occurring shortly before Aaron's passing and the beginning of the Promised Land conquest, further underscores the hardships the Israelites endured.
This event's occurence in the stream of time so close to the end of the 40 years in the wilderness potentially represents a progression in the nature of the hardship, with the latter being more severe or consequential similar to what was discussed in connection with Revelation 9.
This account resonates with the symbolic language of Revelation 9, where the sixth trumpet unleashes a cavalry of horses with "tails like serpents" (Revelation 9:19). This connection suggests a potential parallel between the serpent plague endured by the Israelites and the symbolic representation of tribulation in the last days.
If the serpent plague indeed foreshadows the events following the sixth trumpet blast, as suggested, it implies that these tribulations will occur shortly before the "finish" prophesied in Revelation 10.
The recurring motif of scorpions and serpents in both the Israelites' journey and the prophetic vision of Revelation 9 helps us gain a richer understanding of both accounts and their possible meaning for us today. This deeper perspective equips us to navigate the complexities of the present and prepare for the potential trials that may lie ahead.
# Connecting the Dots: Serpents, Scorpions, and the Destroyer in the Wilderness and Revelation
The parallels between the Israelites' experiences in the wilderness and the prophetic vision of Revelation 9 extend further. 1 Corinthians 10:1-11 offers another link between these two narratives, highlighting the significance of these events for Christians.
Paul, drawing a parallel between the Israelites and Christians, states that the Israelites' experiences "became examples for us" (1 Corinthians 10:6). He specifically mentions the serpent plague as one of the dangers they faced, echoing the account in Numbers 21:6-9. This emphasizes the notion that the hardships endured by the Israelites serve as a cautionary tale for Christians, urging them to avoid similar pitfalls and remain steadfast in their faith.
While Paul doesn't explicitly mention "scorpions," the imagery of the locusts with scorpion tails in Revelation 9 resonates with the concept of the "destroyer" referenced in 1 Corinthians 10:10. In Revelation 9, the Greek name "Apollyon" assigned to the king over these locusts translates to "Destroyer," aligning with Paul's warning.
Furthermore, Paul's statement concerning the Israelites who murmured and perished by the "destroyer" could hold a deeper meaning. Given the rhetorical desire of the murmurers to die in the wilderness, it's possible that Paul is making a veiled reference to them being given over to Satan, the ultimate destroyer. The request was ultimately granted by Jehovah but not in an expedient manner through direct action on Jehovah's part. This aligns with the depiction in Revelation 9 where the people stung by the scorpion-tailed locusts "will seek death but will by no means find it, and they will long to die, but death will flee from them" (Revelation 9:6).
These intriguing connections suggest that the serpent plague and the "destroyer" encountered by the Israelites are not merely isolated historical events. They serve as prophetic warnings to Christians, urging them to be mindful of potential dangers and temptations that may lead them astray. The hardships endured by the Israelites offer valuable lessons for navigating the challenges of the present and remaining steadfast in faith.
# Unraveling the Connection: Similarities Between Luke 10 and Revelation 9
The narratives of Luke 10:17-19 and Revelation 9 resonate with striking parallels, inviting us to contemplate a deeper connection between these two passages. Examining the similarities in their elements, events, and sequences reveals a compelling story of spiritual warfare and the power of faith.
The Fallen Star and Satan's Fall:
Both narratives open with a significant event: the fall of a powerful entity. In Luke 10:18, Jesus declares witnessing Satan's fall like lightning from heaven, foreshadowing a future downfall for God's enemy. Similarly, Revelation 9:1 describes a fallen star appearing after the fifth trumpet blast. This parallel implies a connection between the narratives.
Serpents and Scorpions: Symbols of Satan's Power:
Both narratives prominently feature the same creatures. In Luke 10:19, Jesus grants his disciples authority to "trample underfoot serpents and scorpions" associating these with "all the power of the enemy". Likewise, Revelation 9:3-10 and Revelation 9:16-19 depict locusts with scorpion-like features and horses with serpent-like features, further solidifying the connection between these narratives.
Divine Protection: Overcoming the Enemy:
Both narratives emphasize the need for God's protection to overcome the power of the enemy. In Luke 10:19, Jesus assures his disciples that "nothing at all will harm you," highlighting the protection bestowed upon those who remain steadfast in their faith by fulfilling Jesus' assignment to preach. Similarly, Revelation 9:4 explicitly states that the scorpion-tailed creatures cannot harm those bearing the seal of God on their foreheads. This emphasizes Jehovah's approval as the ultimate safeguard against spiritual adversaries.
Limited Power and Conditional Protection:
While both narratives emphasize divine protection, they also acknowledge limitations. In Luke 10, the disciples' protection is contingent upon their mission and unwavering faith. Similarly, Revelation 9 restricts the power of the creatures, allowing them to harm only those who lack the seal of God. This suggests that protection, while available, is not absolute and requires maintaining God's approval through ongoing commitment.
A Resonant Echo: Unveiling the Deeper Meaning:
These remarkable parallels between Luke 10 and Revelation 9 invite us to consider a deeper meaning. The events in Revelation 9 can be seen as describing the spiritual conflict in the last days foreshadowed by Jesus' words. The serpents and scorpions represent Satanic forces that believers may encounter, and the limitations placed on the scorpion's sting emphasize the importance of demonstrating faith by obedience to God and Christ.
By understanding these parallels, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the ongoing struggle. We are reminded that while the enemy may be powerful, we are not without defense. With unwavering faith and commitment to the preaching work God has assigned his people, we can overcome any obstacle and emerge victorious in the face of adversity.
# Deception Lurks Beneath the Surface: Serpents, Scorpions, and the Gift of Holy Spirit
The symbolism of serpents and scorpions extends beyond their association with pain and hardship. They also represent a potent element of deception, a subtle threat cloaked in the guise of something seemingly harmless.
Unmasking the Deceptive Gift:
Jesus' parable in Luke 11:10-13 provides a vivid illustration of this deceptive nature. He paints a picture of a loving father who, when asked for a fish, would never offer a serpent instead. Similarly, a request for an egg would never be met with a scorpion. These genuine gifts nurture and satisfy the child's true needs, reflecting the father's love and care.
However, the juxtaposition of these wholesome gifts with serpents and scorpions reveals a stark contrast. While they may initially appear to fulfill the child's desire, their true nature is far from benevolent. Accepting such a "gift" would lead to suffering, harm, and potentially even death.
Deception's Hidden Agenda:
This parable highlights the danger of deception disguised as something beneficial. It warns against accepting offerings that appear attractive on the surface but harbor hidden agendas. The consequences of such acceptance can be severe, leaving lasting damage and hindering our spiritual growth.
The True Giver of Good Gifts:
In contrast to deceptive gifts, the true Giver offers blessings that nourish and uplift. Jesus himself emphasizes this in the parable, stating, "Therefore, if you, although being wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more so will the Father in heaven give holy spirit to those asking him!" (Luke 11:13).
This powerful statement emphasizes the immeasurable benefits of seeking God's holy spirit. By considering the giver of the gifts we are enabled to see through deception and recognize true blessings. Considering the outcome of the gifts helps us to identify misleading serpents and scorpions emanating from the leaders of this world. God's holy spirit guides, empowers and genuinely satisfies our wholesome desires. God's holy spirit immunizes all who reject what this world offers in favor of the good gifts and perfect presents from the "Father of the celestial lights." In so doing we align ourselves with God's creatures rather than the monsterous creatures symbolized in Revelation 9 (James 1:16-18).
Navigating a Deceptive World:
By understanding the symbolism of serpents and scorpions, we are better equipped to navigate the complexities of the world. We can remain vigilant against the allure of deceptive offerings and seek instead the genuine gifts of God's holy spirit, which lead to lasting peace, joy, and spiritual fulfillment.
This deeper understanding of the deceptive nature of serpents and scorpions adds another layer of significance to the parallels between Luke 11 and Revelation 9. It encourages us to be mindful of the potential for deception in the tribulations that may lie ahead, urging us to seek the guidance and protection of God's holy spirit in our spiritual journey. Jesus' parable in Luke 11 implores us to reject a nihilistic view of God, His word, or His spirit. It reminds us that His truth is valuable and available to all those genuinely asking for it.
# The Sting of Deception: Serpents, Scorpions, and the World's Allure
The imagery of scorpion and serpent tails adorning the locusts and horses of Revelation 9 carries significant weight beyond their physical attributes. These creatures, with their venomous nature and deceptive appearances, serve as potent symbols of the world's allure and its inevitable consequences.
The Deceptive Facade:
The world, often depicted as being under the influence of "the wicked one" (1 John 5:19), offers a facade of beauty, pleasure, and spiritual enlightenment. Its highly respected figures, the heads of the "horses" and "locusts" of Revelation 9, may appear to hold wisdom and prosperity. They entice individuals to borrow from their philosophies and follow their paths, promising fulfillment and satisfaction.
However, just as a serpent camouflages its deadly bite and a scorpion conceals its venomous sting, the world's gifts ultimately lead to harm. Accepting these "gifts," whether they be material possessions, fleeting pleasures, or worldly philosophies, ultimately lead to adverse and irrevocable consequences.
The Irrevocable Consequences:
The venom of deception injected through these gifts slowly destroys the spiritual well-being of those who partake. They are led astray from the path of righteousness and become ensnared in the web of worldly desires. The promised fulfillment turns into emptiness, and the temporary pleasure gives way to lasting sorrow.
Much like the fate of those stung by the scorpion-tailed creatures in Revelation 9, those who embrace the world's deceptive allure are destined to suffer. This suffering can manifest in various forms, ranging from spiritual bankruptcy and emotional turmoil to physical and even spiritual death.
A Stark Warning:
By drawing parallels between the scorpion and serpent imagery in Revelation 9 and the deceptive nature of the world, the text serves as a stark warning. It urges us to be wary of the world's allure and to recognize the hidden dangers it presents.
Instead of seeking fulfillment in worldly pursuits, we are called to seek a higher source of truth and guidance. By embracing faith and obediently walking the path of righteousness, we are protected from the venomous stings of deception and empowered to experience true and lasting joy.
The message is clear: the world's gifts, however alluring they may appear, ultimately lead to destruction. Only by turning away from their deceptive allure and seeking truth in God can we escape their inevitable sting and find lasting peace and fulfillment.
# Unveiling the Parallels: Scorpions, Scrolls, and the Prophetic Voice
The narratives of Ezekiel 2:6, 3:1-3, Revelation 9:10, and Revelation 10:8-11 present intriguing parallels that shed light on the nature of prophetic pronouncements and their impact on the recipients.
Embracing the Call: Ezekiel's Commission and the Scroll:
In Ezekiel 2:6, Jehovah commissions Ezekiel as a watchman, stating, "though you are dwelling among scorpions, do not be afraid of them." This powerful declaration serves as a metaphor for the challenges and dangers Ezekiel would face in his prophetic role. He is instructed to remain steadfast despite the hostility and opposition he would encounter.
Following his commission, Ezekiel is instructed to eat a scroll in chapter 3:1-3. This act symbolizes the internalization of God's message and the embodiment of the prophetic responsibility. The scroll, containing words of judgment and hope, becomes a part of Ezekiel's being, equipping him to deliver God's message with conviction and clarity.
Echoes in Revelation: Vision and Consumption:
In Revelation 9:10, the apostle John witnesses a vision of locusts with tails like scorpions. Witnessing this vision may have instilled fear and trepidation in John, just as Ezekiel faced dangers in his mission.
Later, in Revelation 10:8-11, John is instructed to eat a scroll similar to Ezekiel's experience. This act signifies his acceptance of the prophetic responsibility entrusted to him. The scroll empowers John to speak truth and share God's message.
The Significance of the Parallels:
The parallels between the experiences of Ezekiel and John highlight the inherent challenges and significance of the prophetic calling. Both prophets were confronted with potential dangers, symbolized by scorpions, and entrusted with scrolls representing God's message. The act of eating the scroll signifies the internalization of the message and the willingness to bear the responsibility of delivering it, even in the face of adversity.
# Intriguing Parallels and Subtle Distinctions
The narratives of Ezekiel and John, woven through the tapestry of scripture, offer intriguing parallels and subtle distinctions.
Resolve in the Face of Adversity:
Both Ezekiel and John encounter scorpions, symbolizing the potential dangers and opposition they may face in delivering God's message. This shared challenge underscores the courage and unwavering faith required to speak God's message, regardless of the obstacles encountered.
Internalizing the Divine Word:
The act of consuming a scroll serves as a powerful metaphor in both accounts. It signifies the internalization of God's message and the embodiment of their prophetic responsibility. This emphasizes the importance of prophets being vessels through which divine pronouncements flow, shaping and transforming them for the sake of their audiences.
Diversification of Scope:
While Ezekiel is specifically tasked with delivering God's message to the house of Israel, focusing on internal challenges and transgressions, John's audience encompasses "peoples, nations, tongues, and many kings," highlighting a broader global message intended to reach a diverse and multifaceted audience.
A Sweetness that Turns Bitter:
One key difference lies in the immediate effects of consuming the scroll. For both Ezekiel and John, the scroll is initially "sweet in the mouth," signifying their willingness and acceptance of their mission. However, only in John's case does the sweetness turn "bitter in his stomach." This difference suggests that while both prophets willingly accepted their calling, John's journey may be fraught with additional sorrows.
A Tapestry of Significance:
These differences, rather than diminishing the value of the narratives, offer a more nuanced understanding of prophecy and its multifaceted nature. By acknowledging these similarities and differences, we can appreciate the diverse tapestry woven through the narratives of Ezekiel and John.
# John's Prophetic Renewal: Unveiling the Significance of the Scroll and Renewed Mission
The details surrounding John's consumption of the scroll in Revelation 10 hold significant weight, offering clues about the nature of his renewed prophetic mission.
The Timing: No Delay Any Longer:
The timing of this event, right after the sixth trumpet signifying the fall of 2019, suggests a pivotal moment in John's prophetic journey. It implies a shift in the urgency and nature of his message, possibly reflecting an intensification of events leading towards a significant culmination.
Consuming the Scroll: Sweetness and Bitterness:
The act of eating the scroll represents John's internalization of a new or renewed message from God. The initial sweetness suggests his willingness and acceptance of this mission. However, the subsequent bitterness in his stomach foreshadows the potential lamentations he may encounter in delivering it (Lamentations 3:15).
Prophecy Renewed: A Change in Audience or Message?
The instruction to "prophesy again" suggests a continuation of John's prophetic role, possibly with a renewed focus or a shift in his target audience. This could imply:
- A Broader Audience: John's prophecy may now be directed towards a wider audience encompassing "peoples, nations, tongues, and many kings," instead of being confined to a specific group.
- A Deeper Message: His message may now delve deeper into the unfolding events, providing clearer insights and warnings related to the time of the end.
- A Focus on Action: John's prophecy might transition from mere pronouncements to calls for action and preparation for the events to come.
Possible Combinations:
These possibilities are not mutually exclusive; it's possible that John's renewed mission encompasses a combination of these elements. He may be called to address a wider audience with a deeper message while simultaneously urging them towards action in light of the approaching culmination.
Significance for the Present:
Understanding the significance of John's renewed mission holds relevance for our own time. As we approach the potential fulfillment of these prophecies, it reminds us to remain vigilant, stay informed, and actively prepare ourselves for whatever may lie ahead.
# Echoes of Exodus: A Narrative Journey through the Last Days
Our exploration has led us to the creatures of Revelation 9. We've found a potential connection to Moses' description of the Israelites' 40-year wilderness journey in Deuteronomy 8. Could this connection be merely coincidence, or is it a deliberate thread woven into the fabric of prophecy?
As we delve deeper, we find another striking parallel in Deuteronomy 8:2, 3, and 16. Moses emphasizes that Jehovah fed the Israelites for precisely 40 years in the wilderness. This detail resonates with Revelation 12:5, 6 and Revelation 12:13, 14. Here, a symbolic woman is also fed in the wilderness for 1,260 prophetic days.
The Bible chronicles the moments when Jehovah initiated and concluded the feeding of the Israelites in the wilderness with remarkable precision.[1] These instances are meticulously documented in Exodus 16:1-7 and Joshua 5:10-12. The memorialization of these dates might not be mere historical footnotes. Instead, it suggest that these events hold significance in a larger narrative.
In Revelation 12, the period of divine provision begins with "two wings of the great eagle" carrying the woman to her wilderness refuge to be fed. This detail echoes Exodus 19:4. Here, Jehovah speaks of carrying the Israelites on "wings of eagles" out of Egyptian bondage. After this they are miraculously fed by Jehovah during their 40-year journey in the wilderness.
Genesis 49 seems to describe the beginning of a period that for the Israelites was characterized as the last days. Here, Jacob's deathbed prophecy alludes to what would happen to his sons "in the final part of the days". Jacob's prophetic statement, linguistically equivalent to "last days", is understood to refer to a time in their future when Egyptian bondage ends and Jacob's words begin undergoing fulfillment.[2]
The 1,260 prophetic days in Revelation 12 intertwine with a previous suggestion. This suggestion proposes that the same timeframe in Daniel 12 coincides with the "last days". The "last days" began in the fall of 1914 and culminated with the commencement of the "time of the end" in the fall of 2019.
From this perspective, the sequence and duration of events mirror each other. Just as Israel left Egypt, beginning a period described by Jacob on his deathbed as the last days, and was fed by Jehovah for 40 years before they began conquering the promised land, the woman in Revelation 12 is similarly fed throughout a period considered to be the "last days". After this, "the time of the end" commences followed by a culminating "finish".
These captivating parallels paint a vivid narrative. They draw a powerful connection between the Israelites' wilderness journey and the symbolic woman's journey during the last days in Revelation 12. As we navigate this complex terrain, we glimpse the intricate tapestry of God's word. It's woven with threads of history and prophecy, revealing details about the journey toward the ultimate fulfillment of his promises.
See "In Which Month did the Manna Stop?" in the section addenda. ↩︎
See "Balaam's Proverbial Sayings" in the section addenda. ↩︎