The seven seals in Revelation represent stages of judgment and events that unfold as Christ begins to open the scroll of God’s purposes for the end times. This vision is recorded in Revelation chapters 6–8, where the Lamb (Jesus Christ) is the only one worthy to open the seals (Revelation 5:5).
First Seal – White Horse
“And I looked, and behold, a white horse. He who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.” (Revelation 6:2)
This rider represents conquest and the rise of powerful forces on earth, often interpreted as the rise of the antichrist who brings a false peace.
Second Seal – Red Horse
“Another horse, fiery red, went out. And it was granted to the one who sat on it to take peace from the earth.” (Revelation 6:4)
This symbolizes war and bloodshed.
Third Seal – Black Horse
“So I looked, and behold, a black horse, and he who sat on it had a pair of scales in his hand.” (Revelation 6:5)
The black horse represents famine and economic hardship.
Fourth Seal – Pale Horse
“So I looked, and behold, a pale horse. And the name of him who sat on it was Death, and Hades followed with him.” (Revelation 6:8)
This brings death through various ways: sword, hunger, and pestilence.
Fifth Seal – Martyrs
“I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God.” (Revelation 6:9)
This reveals the suffering of believers who remain faithful and cry out for justice.
Sixth Seal – Cosmic Disturbances
“There was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair.” (Revelation 6:12)
This represents catastrophic signs in the heavens and earth signaling the approaching judgment.
Seventh Seal – Silence in Heaven
“When He opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour.” (Revelation 8:1)
This solemn pause precedes the trumpet judgments, marking the severity of what is about to come.
The seven seals reveal God’s plan unfolding in stages, reminding believers that Christ alone holds the scroll of history. The seals warn of a coming judgment, but also assure that God’s purposes will be accomplished through the Lamb who is worthy.