VI: The Prophets' Visions

Seven Stars

the congregations' messengers under His authority

Root
Dan 12:3 · kokab (H3556)
Old Testament chain
  1. Job 38:7
  2. Isa 40:26
  3. Dan 12:3
  4. Mal 2:7
  5. Rev 1:20
New Testament
Rev 1:16, 20; Rev 2:1; Rev 3:1

Stars first sing as heavenly messengers at creation, "when the morning stars sang together" (Job 38:7), and Yahuah "bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names" (Isa 40:26). Daniel applies the image to faithful teachers: "they that turn many to righteousness" shall shine "as the stars for ever and ever" (Dan 12:3). Malachi names the priest "the messenger of Yahuah of hosts," whose lips keep knowledge (Mal 2:7). The book reads the seven stars as the angels or messengers of each assembly, their leaders, under His authority. Holding them in His right hand shows His authority over them and His care for them. Each letter is addressed to the messenger who answers for his congregation.

From The Courtroom of Heaven, pp. 13, 26, 30, 50