Who are 'they' in Revelation 16:6?
In Revelation 16:6, “they” refers to the whole human race. They are the ones who have shed the blood of saints and prophets, as stated in the verse. This identification is explicit in the context, showing that the judgment falls upon humanity for its bloodthirsty history.
Les teaches that in Revelation 16:6 the word “they” is defined right in the text as the whole human race. He explains that the verse says they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and then connects this to history. During the Dark Ages, about 500 AD to 1500, an estimated 50 million Christians were martyred. He also notes that during the 70 years of communism in Russia, another 50 million people were put to death by their own government. So “they” is not a limited group but humanity as a whole, which has been bloodthirsty for 6,000 years and now must drink the plague of judgment. The angel of the waters declares God righteous because they are getting what they deserve.
For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and thou hast given them blood to drink; for they are worthy.
More Questions
Who is "they" in Revelation 16:6 that shed the blood of saints and prophets?
"They" in Revelation 16:6—the ones who shed the blood of saints and prophets—is the whole human race.