Revelation 14:4
These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb.
Study Note
Study Note
The 144,000 who follow the Lamb are described as virgins 'not defiled with women' — language that in Revelation's symbolic framework most likely refers to those who have not committed spiritual fornication with Babylon's idolatrous system. The 'virgin' metaphor for covenant faithfulness draws on the prophetic tradition where Israel as bride must remain faithful to God rather than 'prostituting' herself to foreign gods (Hosea 1-3; Jeremiah 3). The statement that 'these are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth' defines the 144,000 primarily by radical discipleship — they go where Christ goes, including through suffering. Paul's parallel in 2 Corinthians 11:2 presents the church as a pure virgin betrothed to Christ, indicating this is a widespread early Christian metaphor.
Other Translations
These are they that were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they that follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were purchased from among men, to be the firstfruits unto God and unto the Lamb.
these are they who with women were not defiled, for they are virgin; these are they who are following the Lamb whithersoever he may go; these were bought from among men--a first-fruit to God and to the Lamb--
These are they who have not made themselves unclean with women; for they are virgins. These are they who go after the Lamb wherever he goes. These were taken from among men to be the first fruits to God and to the Lamb.
Cross References
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth …
Israel was holiness unto the Lord, and the firstfruits of his increase: all that devour him shall offend; evil shall …
Woe to them that are at ease in Zion, and trust in the mountain of Samaria, which are named chief …
These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and …
For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living …
Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that …
And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: …
Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me …
There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and virgins without number.
Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love …