Defilement and Cleansing in Heaven
Abstract
Abstract Revelation 11:1–2 is often understood as a metaphor for the protection of God’s people. However, it is more consistent with the rest of Revelation if these verses are descriptions of heavenly space. This conclusion is supported by examining the trampling, measuring and casting out, and the place of these verses in Revelation. Revelation 11:1–2 describes how the nations on earth defile the outer court and new Jerusalem in heaven while the sanctuary, altar, and worshipers in heaven are protected from this defilement, a protection symbolized by the measuring.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Biblical Studies and Interpretation
Reformation and Early Modern Christianity
Historical
Religious
and Philosophical Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Novum Testamentum
- Volume
- 68
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 105–123
- Publication date
- 7 January 2026