The seven seals are a significant part of the apocalyptic vision described in the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation chapters 5 through 8. Each seal represents various events or judgments that unfold in the end times. Here is a summary of the seven seals along with their biblical references:
1. **First Seal – The Conqueror (Revelation 6:1-2)**: When the Lamb opens the first seal, a white horse appears, and its rider holds a bow, given a crown and going out to conquer.
2. **Second Seal – War (Revelation 6:3-4)**: The Lamb opens the second seal, revealing a red horse, symbolizing war and conflict. Its rider takes peace from the earth, causing people to slay one another.
3. **Third Seal – Famine (Revelation 6:5-6)**: The third seal is opened, revealing a black horse. The rider holds a pair of scales, indicating famine and economic disparity, where basic resources are scarce and expensive.
4. **Fourth Seal – Death (Revelation 6:7-8)**: The fourth seal reveals a pale horse, and its rider is named Death, with Hades following close behind. This seal signifies widespread death through various calamities.
5. **Fifth Seal – The Martyrs (Revelation 6:9-11)**: The fifth seal shows the souls of martyrs who were slain for their testimony. They cry out for justice and are given white robes, told to wait until the full number of their fellow servants is reached.
6. **Sixth Seal – Cosmic Disturbances (Revelation 6:12-17)**: The sixth seal results in dramatic cosmic events: a great earthquake, the sun turning black, the moon becoming like blood, and stars falling from the sky—notable signs that precede the day of the Lord.
7. **Seventh Seal – Silence in Heaven (Revelation 8:1)**: When the seventh seal is opened, there is silence in heaven for about half an hour. This leads into the subsequent trumpet judgments that follow.
These seals illustrate the unfolding of divine judgment leading to the ultimate restoration through Christ’s return.