The Semantic use of the aorist ebasileusen in Revelation 19:6 in the light of the verbal aspect theory : an exegetical study

Abstract

The aim of this study is to find the semantic use of the aorist εβασiλευσεν in Rev 19:6 in light of verbal aspect theory. Temporal models result in a variety of interpretations. Therefore, there is a need to call on aspect to fill this gap. The predominant theorists on aspect are divided on important issues. The main one is whether the Greek verbal system expresses time or not. This dissertation is searching for the best theory that fits the data within the book of Revelation. The complexity of Greek verbal aspect shows both strengths and weaknesses in all theories. The mix temporal view searches to clear the complexity by dividing the tenses into different categories while keeping time in the indicative form and denying it in the imperative and subjunctive. The aspectual view tries to accomplish the same task by stating that Greek verbs do not express time but only aspect. It uses features such as remoteness and expectation to explain the time element respectively in the imperfect and in the future. The analysis of the data shows clearly that some categories of tense express time and others are timeless within the same tense form. It happens with the present tense form and the indicative aorist. Other tense forms like imperfect and future clearly indicate time. A major interaction with David L. Mathewson shows that his interpretation of Rev 19:6 lacks meaning because of the emphasis on aspect and the lack of consideration of the context which clearly shows that a timeless truth is impossible if the events happen between the cross and the consummation. The chiastic structure of Rev 19:1-8 shows its relevance to the right interpretation of the aorist. Since vv. 1 and 8 form an inclusio that denotes a climax within the text. God acts in salvation and judgment and He continues to act until the marriage of the Lamb. The aorist covers a process which emphasizes judgment, salvation, acknowledgment of divine beings, and marriage to the Lamb. It is not a gnomic aorist but rather it describes a future event related to the kingdom of God in the context of the end-time.