JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

January 1988

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your question concerning Revelation 19:1, which speaks of "much PEOPLE in heaven."

This is an unfortunate translation of the Greek word "ochlos." This word can mean people, but it also has a variety of other English synonyms. Since the Bible elsewhere plainly tells us that the reward of the saved is this earth -- not heaven -- it is evident that another synonym of the Greek word "ochlos" should have been chosen. (You may wish to request a copy of our booklet WHAT IS THE REWARD OF THE SAVED?)

The Goodspeed translation and the Revised Standard Version render "ochlos" as "multitude." The Moffat translation renders it as "host," while the Amplified New Testament and the Numeric English New Testament render it as "crowd."

These translations best convey the meaning of the original Greek. Thus, the "people" of Revelation 19:1 are actually the "host, crowd, or multitude" of heaven. This verse is speaking of ANGELS who are in heaven. They are the great multitude that sings forth praises to God (Rev. 5:11-12).

Thank you again for your question. If we can be of further service, please let us know.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT