Can the Dead Praise?
Heaven, earth, sea: That three-decker universe is standard-issue in biblical cosmology (Exodus 20:11; Psalm 69:34; 96:11; 135:6; 146:6; Revelation 10:6). Occasionally a second heaven is added to the scheme (Nehemiah 9:6).
But when the Lamb ascends to take the book, praise arises from four dimensions of creation: heaven, earth, under the earth , and sea (Revelation 5:13). So far as I can tell, this is unprecedented. A fourth dimension is added not by reference to a tip-top story, a highest heaven. A fourth dimension is added below, a basement beneath the earth.
When the slain Lamb stands in heaven, the question of the Psalms gets answered: Can the dead praise you? In Sheol, who can give you thanks?
Peter Leithart
Peter J. Leithart is President of Theopolis Institute. He is the author of numerous books on theology, literature, and culture, including Theopolitan, Defending Constantine, and Baptized Body.
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