Revelation 5:3

But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or look inside it.

Berean Standard Bible

Study note

Setting — The narrator addresses the vision at the moment a mighty angel proclaims a loud question about who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll. No response is given, leaving the scene suspended before the scroll's contents are revealed.

The words — οὐδεὶς (oudeis) translates to "no one," and ἐδύνατο (edynato) means "was able," together establishing a universal inability. These terms emphasize that every possible realm of existence lacks the capacity to act on the angel's demand.

The thread — The phrase "in heaven or on earth or under the earth" reappears in Revelation 5:13 to encompass all creation in worship. The theme of divine incomparability echoes Isaiah 40:13 and Romans 11:34, which ask who has directed the Spirit of the Lord or known His mind.

Why it lands — The text demands recognition that human and created power cannot access or execute divine revelation. It requires the reader to await the one who alone possesses the authority to unfold God's plan.

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The Greek words

King James Version

And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.

Cross-references

Revelation 5:13 And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying: “To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power forever and ever!”
Isaiah 40:13 Who has directed the Spirit of the LORD, or informed Him as His counselor?
Romans 11:34 “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been His counselor?”
Isaiah 41:28 When I look, there is no one; there is no counselor among them; when I ask them, they have nothing to say.