There is a lot of symbolism in Revelation and usually it is easy to skim through.  I do believe it is worth diving in to and trying to see what it means. These are my personal interpretations of what these seals represent based on commentaries and context.

1. A world conquering leader or government.

“I looked up and saw a white horse standing there. Its rider carried a bow, and a crown was placed on his head. He rode out to win many battles and gain the victory.” Rev 6:2

2. Widespread war.

“Then another horse appeared, a red one. Its rider was given a mighty sword and the authority to take peace from the earth. And there was war and slaughter everywhere.” Rev 6:4

3.  Widespread famine.

“I looked up and saw a black horse, and its rider was holding a pair of scales in his hand. And I heard a voice from among the four living beings say, “A loaf of wheat bread or three loaves of barley will cost a day’s pay. And don’t waste the olive oil and wine.” Rev 6:5-6

4. Widespread disease and death.

“I looked up and saw a horse whose color was pale green. Its rider was named Death, and his companion was the Grave. These two were given authority over one-fourth of the earth, to kill with the sword and famine and disease and wild animals.” Rev 6:8

5. Many martyrs.

“I saw under the altar the souls of all who had been martyred for the word of God and for being faithful in their testimony. They shouted to the Lord and said, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you judge the people who belong to this world and avenge our blood for what they have done to us?” 11 Then a white robe was given to each of them. And they were told to rest a little longer until the full number of their brothers and sisters —their fellow servants of Jesus who were to be martyred—had joined them.” Rev 6:9-11

6. A massive earthquake and accompanying natural disasters.

“and there was a great earthquake. The sun became as dark as black cloth, and the moon became as red as blood. Then the stars of the sky fell to the earth like green figs falling from a tree shaken by a strong wind. The sky was rolled up like a scroll, and all of the mountains and islands were moved from their places.” Rev 6:12-14

These seals are different ways that God will judge the world before he returns.

Share on Facebook or Twitter or post a comment. Get daily updates by subscribing by email. From my reading in Revelation 6 in the One Year Bible New Testament.