Revelation 6:5-6 (AMP) states: “When He (the Lamb) broke open the third seal, I heard the third living creature call out, ‘Come.’ I looked, and behold, a black horse [of famine]; and the rider had in his hand a pair of scales (a balance). And I heard something like a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, ‘A quart of wheat for a denarius (a day’s wages), and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not damage the oil and the wine.'”
In this vision, the focus shifts once again to the heavenly throne room. The Lamb of God, with an air of solemn authority, breaks open the third seal. The sound of the seal breaking reverberates through the heavens, and the third living creature, with a voice echoing like a distant call, commands, “Come!” (Revelation 6:5).
Emerging from the celestial realms is a black horse, its dark presence a stark contrast to the brightness of heaven. The horse symbolizes famine and scarcity, bringing with it a sense of dread and foreboding. The rider, somber and deliberate, holds in his hand a pair of scales, representing the measure and balance of essential resources (Lamentations 4:8-9). The Third Seal: Famine represents this vivid imagery and dire warning.
As the rider descends to the earth, a voice from among the four living creatures declares, “A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not damage the oil and the wine” (Revelation 6:6). This proclamation underscores the severe inflation and scarcity that will grip the world. The Third Seal: Famine clearly emphasizes that basic foodstuffs become precious commodities, and the daily struggle for sustenance intensifies.
The rider on the black horse traverses the land, and his presence is marked by empty markets, barren fields, and desperate people. The balance scales in his hand weigh the scant provisions, emphasizing the dire economic conditions. Those who once lived in abundance now find themselves bartering their labor for meager rations (Ezekiel 4:16-17). The Third Seal: Famine inevitably leads to scenes of hunger and desperation as described.
Scenes of hunger and deprivation unfold as families ration their dwindling supplies, and the stark reality of famine settles in. The disparity between the rich and the poor becomes even more pronounced, as the affluent protect their oil and wine, while the masses struggle to survive on limited grains (Proverbs 22:2).
In the midst of this bleak landscape, there remains a glimmer of divine provision. The command to not damage the oil and the wine hints at a measure of mercy, preserving some essentials amidst the widespread scarcity. This small mercy serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and His control even in times of judgment and hardship (Psalm 33:18-19).
As the vision concludes, it leaves an indelible impression of the severe trials that come with the breaking of the third seal. The black horse and its rider embody the harsh realities of famine, calling believers to trust in God’s provision and justice even in the darkest times (Philippians 4:19). The Third Seal: Famine calls for faith in divine sustenance.
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