Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Revelation 19:12

"And his eyes [are] a flame of fire, and upon his head [are] many diadems; and he hath a name written which no one knoweth but he himself." — Revelation 19:12 (ASV)

The reference to the blazing eyes connects this vision with that of 1:14 (cf. 2:18). On his head are not just seven crowns (12:3), or ten (13:1), but “many crowns” of royalty (GK 1343). Perhaps they signify that the royal power to rule the world has now passed to Christ by virtue of the victory of his followers (11:15).

So great is Christ’s power that his name is known only by himself.

Knowledge of a name is in antiquity associated with the power of the god. When a name becomes known, then the power is shared with those to whom the disclosure is made (cf. comment on 2:17). But since two names of Christ are revealed in this vision—“the Word of God” (v.13) and “ KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS” (v.16)—it may be concluded that the exclusive power of Christ over all creation is now to be shared with his faithful followers (3:21; 5:10; 22:5). On the other hand, the secret name may be one that will not be revealed till Christ’s return.