Liturgical references in Revelation: A theological-Liturgical study of Revelation 4-5

Abstract

This monographic research paper studies the heavenly liturgy in Revelation 4-5, starting from the fundamental importance of liturgical references within the book as a whole, as a hermeneutical key to understanding its theological message and its relevance in the contemporary Church. Methodologically, the study is developed from a mainly theological- liturgical approach, and it is structured in three progressively articulated chapters. At first, the literary, historical, and liturgical presuppositions of Revelation are addressed, identifying liturgy as a fundamental interpretative category of the book. Subsequently, through a careful biblical study, an analysis of Revelation 4-5 is carried out, focusing on its structure, its symbols, its cultic dynamism, and the main actors participating in the heavenly liturgy. Finally, in light of the findings obtained, a theological reading of the heavenly liturgy is developed, aimed at identifying the way in which it illuminates the life and faith of the Church. The results demonstrated that liturgy constitutes an essential hermeneutical key in Revelation and that chapters 4-5 form a literary, theological, and liturgical unity centered upon the one seated on the throne and on the Lamb. Likewise, it was confirmed that John’s liturgical vision has concrete implications for the lives of believers and the Church.