When Was the Book of Revelation Written?
Quick Answer — When Was Revelation Written?
Most scholars date the Book of Revelation to AD 95–96, during the reign of the Roman emperor Domitian. A minority view places it earlier, in AD 65–69 under Emperor Nero, before the destruction of the Jerusalem temple in 70 AD. The text itself does not specify a year, but historical clues and early church tradition support both views.
Introduction
When was Revelation written? It’s not just a trivia question — the answer shapes how we understand its visions, its intended audience, and even its interpretation today. The book was penned by “John” while exiled on the island of Patmos (Revelation 1:9), but the exact timing has been debated for centuries.
Verse by Verse Breakdown of Revelation 1:9
“I, John, your brother who share with you in Jesus the persecution and the kingdom and the patient endurance, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus”(Revelation 1:9, NRSV).
This verse anchors the discussion. It tells us:
John was in exile on Patmos.
He was there for his witness to Jesus.
He writes to believers facing persecution.
Those conditions fit multiple moments in the first century, leading to two main dating proposals: the late date view of AD 95 - 96 and the early date view of 65-69. Let’s look at both.
The Late Date View (AD 95–96)
Historical Support
Irenaeus (c. AD 180) wrote that Revelation was seen “towards the end of the reign of Domitian” (Against Heresies 5.30.3).
Domitian’s reign (AD 81–96) saw increased pressure on Christians to participate in emperor worship.
Persecution Context
The letters to the seven churches mention martyrdom (Revelation 2:13) and economic exclusion (Revelation 13:17), which align with Domitian’s policies.
Commentary Insights
G. K. Beale (The Book of Revelation, NICNT, p. 5) — Early church tradition “consistently points to the latter part of Domitian’s reign.”
Craig Koester (Revelation, AYB, p. 74) — The churches appear mature, facing second-generation challenges more plausible by the 90s.
The Early Date View (AD 65–69)
Historical Support
Revelation 11’s reference to the temple may suggest it was still standing.
The number 666 (Revelation 13:18) matches “Nero Caesar” when written in Hebrew letters.
Persecution Context
Nero’s persecution after the fire of Rome in AD 64 was notorious. Some see Nero as the “beast” of Revelation 13.
Commentary Insights
Kenneth Gentry (Before Jerusalem Fell, p. 141) — The temple’s apparent presence “weighs heavily against a Domitianic origin.”
Robert Mounce (The Book of Revelation, NICNT, p. 33) — Temple imagery may be symbolic and not proof it still stood.
Language and Style
Revelation was written in Greek but shows Semitic influence. This fits either date but reinforces that the author was steeped in Old Testament imagery.
Why the Date Matters
Late Date: Often read as addressing the whole church under an expanding Roman Empire.
Early Date: Often read through a preterist lens, focused on events leading to Jerusalem’s destruction. “Preterist” is an approach to interpreting Revelation (and other prophetic passages) that sees most of its visions as being fulfilled in the past, specifically in the first century.
Either way, Revelation is a message of hope for the persecuted and a call to endure in faith.
Meaning for Today
Whether under Nero or Domitian, believers were called to resist compromise and worship Christ alone. The visions point us beyond earthly empires to the Lamb’s eternal reign (Revelation 5:13).
FAQ
Q: What year was Revelation written?
A: Likely AD 95–96 (late date) or AD 65–69 (early date).
Q: What language was Revelation written in?
A: Greek, with heavy Old Testament imagery.
Q: Was Revelation the last book written in the Bible?
A: Probably, if the late date is correct.
Q: Why was Revelation written?
A: To encourage persecuted Christians and proclaim the victory of Christ.
