1 Then I looked, and here was the Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with him were 144,000, who had his name and his Father's name written on their foreheads.2 I also heard a sound coming out of heaven like the sound of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder. Now the sound I heard was like that made by harpists playing their harps,3 and they were singing a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders. No one was able to learn the song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth.4 These are the ones who have not defiled themselves with women, for they are virgins. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever he goes. These were redeemed from humanity as firstfruits to God and to the Lamb,5 and no lie was found on their lips; they are blameless.
- This scene contrasts sharply with the preceding chapters focused on the beast and its followers (Revelation 13).
- The Lamb (Jesus Christ) stands victorious on Mount Zion, the symbolic location of God's dwelling and kingdom, representing security and triumph.
- The 144,000 represent the complete community of the redeemed, sealed with God's ownership and protection (cf. Revelation 7:3-4), contrasting with those marked by the beast.
- The "new song" signifies a unique hymn of redemption, understood only by those who have experienced God's salvation through the Lamb.
- Their "virginity" is likely symbolic of spiritual purity and wholehearted devotion to Christ, rather than literal celibacy, indicating faithfulness amidst corrupting influences.
- As "firstfruits," they represent the initial and choice part of God's redeemed people, guaranteeing the full harvest to come.
- Following the Lamb "wherever he goes" highlights their unwavering discipleship and obedience, even unto death.
- Being "blameless" and having "no lie" points to their integrity and truthfulness, achieved through the Lamb's redemption, standing against the deceit of the beast's system.