Definition: And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron; and the sound of their wings [was] as the sound of chariots of many horses running to battle.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Revelation 9:9. It’s a pretty poetic and symbolic description of a terrifying future event. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it describes a massive, overwhelming, and destructive army – think of it as a huge swarm of winged creatures. Here’s a breakdown of the key parts: “They had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron…” This is a strong image. It suggests these creatures are heavily armored and formidable. Iron represents strength, resilience, and even something that can be used to harm or destroy. “…and the sound of their wings [was] as the sound of chariots of many horses running to battle.” This is the really striking part. The "wings" are described as incredibly fast and numerous – like hundreds or thousands of them. The sound they make – “running to battle” – means they're moving with incredible speed, creating a chaotic and overwhelming noise. What does this imagery suggest? A Judgment: Revelation 9:9 is often interpreted as a prophecy about the final judgment of God. It speaks of an impending catastrophe. A Great Battle: The image of these winged creatures suggests a massive, intense battle between good and evil. Unstoppable Force: The sheer number of them and their speed convey a force far beyond what we typically experience in our everyday lives. Important Note: This is a complex passage with many possible interpretations. It's not meant to be taken literally, but rather as a symbolic representation of the end times and God’s judgment. It's about a powerful, overwhelming event that will shake the earth. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Revelation 9? Discuss what some people interpret this passage as meaning? Give you a simpler explanation of the overall message of Revelation 9?