Revelation 18:10

Afar off. Doubtless in the realization that, but recently, they had collaborated with Babylon (see v. 3), were involved in her “sins,” and were, accordingly, destined to share in her “plagues” (v. 4). They realize that their own fate is inexorably bound up with hers. They had not heeded God’s call to “come out of her” (v. 4), and must soon share her fate. Compare Eze. 27:33, 35.

Alas, alas. They had expected to “receive power” (see on ch. 17:12) permanently with their paramour, mystical Babylon. She had assured them that she was enthroned a “queen” forever and that, should they cast their lot with her, they too would enjoy endless dominion (see on ch. 17:2). Realizing, too late, the futility of such a scheme, they now give way to utter remorse.

Great city. See on chs. 14:8; 17:5, 18; 18:7. In the Greek the ascription of former greatness and power to mystical Babylon is most emphatic. The emptiness of her claims is now fully apparent, for “strong is the Lord God who judgeth her” (v. 8).

Babylon. See on ch. 17:5, 18.

One hour. See on chs. 17:12; 18:8.

Judgment. Gr. krisis, the “[act of] judging,” or “[execution of] judgment,” in contrast with krima, the “[sentence of] judgment” (see on ch. 17:1). Whereas ch. 17 deals primarily with the sentence against Babylon, ch. 18 is concerned with the execution of that sentence.