The Identity & Fate of the Kings of the Earth in the Book of Revelation

Abstract

There is a lack of consensus about the identity and fate of the kings of the earth in the book of Revelation. This article attempts to resolve these two issues through exegesis of seven key passages (Rev 1:5; 6:15-17; 16:12-16; 17; 18; 19:17-21 and 21:24-26) using the tools of biblical theology and narrative criticism. It is concluded that the identity of the kings of the earth is primarily symbolic in that they represent a part of civilized society who engage in the sin of cultural accommodation. Furthermore, it is noted that while many of the kings of the earth experience the fate of ultimate judgment (19:17-21), some kings experience ultimate salvation (21:24-26).