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merchandise of gold, silver, precious stones, pearls, fine linen, purple, silk, scarlet, all expensive wood, every vessel of ivory, every vessel made of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble;

Verse Takeaways

1

A Portrait of Decadent Luxury

The long list of goods isn't random. Commentators explain that these items—from rare thyine wood and ivory to exotic fabrics like silk and purple—were the most expensive luxury products of the ancient world. The list paints a vivid picture of 'Babylon' as a culture completely consumed by materialism, opulence, and self-indulgence, drawing the world's wealth to itself for its own pleasure.

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Book Overview

Revelation

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Commentaries

6

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Revelation 18:12

18th Century

Theologian

The merchandise of gold, and silver. Of course, these constitute an important article of commerce in a great city.

And precious…

AT Robertson

AT Robertson

On Revelation 18:12

Of fine linen (βυσσινου). Genitive case after γομον, as are all the items to κοκκινου. Old adjective from βυσσος (linen,[Reference…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Revelation 18:11–13

19th Century

Bishop

And the merchants of the earth . . .—A better rendering is, The merchants of the earth weep and mourn (not “shall weep; ”…

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Expositor's Bible Commentary

Expositor's Bible Commentary

On Revelation 18:12

Even quick reading of Eze 27 shows that John has in mind Ezekiel’s lamentation over the fall of ancient Tyre. Those who entered into fornication wi…

John Gill

John Gill

On Revelation 18:12

17th Century

Pastor

The merchandise of gold and silver, and precious stones,
and of pearls
Things for treasure and ornament, …

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Revelation 18:9–19

17th Century

Minister

The mourners had shared in Babylon's sensual pleasures and gained from her wealth and trade. The kings of the earth, whom she flattered into idolat…

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