Revelation 18:15

15 Those who traded in these things, who grew wealthy through her, will stand afar off, struck with terror at her punishment,

Revelation 18:15 Meaning and Commentary

Revelation 18:15

The merchants of these things
Before mentioned, who have traded in them for themselves and for Rome:

which were made rich by her,
see ( Revelation 18:3 )

shall stand afar off for fear of her torment;
as the kings of the earth before, ( Revelation 18:10 ) being conscious to themselves of their being partners in her crimes, and so might justly fear they should share in her punishment; and it may be, they will outwardly deny they are now of her religion, and will externally embrace the reformed religion; though they will be inwardly weeping and wailing for the destruction of Rome, and the loss of their merchandise and goodly things.

Revelation 18:15 In-Context

13 Also cinnamon and amomum; odors to burn as incense or for perfume; frankincense, wine, oil; fine flour, wheat, cattle and sheep; horses and carriages and slaves; and the lives of men.

14 The dainties that thy soul longed for are gone from thee, and all thine elegance and splendor have perished, and never again shall they be found.

15 Those who traded in these things, who grew wealthy through her, will stand afar off, struck with terror at her punishment,

16 weeping aloud and sorrowing, and saying, `Alas, alas, for this great city, which was brilliantly arrayed in fine linen, and purple and scarlet stuff, and beautified with gold, jewels and pearls;

17 because in one short hour all this great wealth has been laid waste!' And every shipmaster and every passenger by sea and the crews and all who ply their trade on the sea,