The interpretation of the book of Revelation has always aroused controversy, in particular its use and abuse in periods of rapid change. Revelation is an awe-inspiring book of both promise and doom, and readers often choose to seek what they find there. The Branch Davidian (Waco) and Heaven's Gate groups both incorporated elements taken from Revelation into their ideologies.
For students of biblical studies attempting a responsible reading, interpretation is complex. This introduction presents the student with all the tools and information required for understanding the many commentaries written on the book. It focuses on the nature of hermeneutics itself and leads students to have confidence in their own interpretations.
Gilbert Desrosiers is Master of Christian Studies, specializing in the New Testament, at ICI University.