Translation
For this reason rejoice, oh heavens, and those dwelling in them. Woe to the earth and the sea,
Go to footnote numberfor the DEVIL has
come down to you, with great fury, knowing that his time is short.”
Paraphrase
For this reason
rejoice, oh heavens, and those dwelling in them, but woe to all mankind
and to all animals,
for the FALSE ACCUSER has come down to you, with great fury,
knowing that his time is short.”
Footnotes
1
Because the sea is used here in conjunction with the earth it does not mean death or danger. Instead, this combination, in this particular context, refers to the dwelling place of sea creatures. Obviously, animals also live on the land, but by saying it this way we get the idea that all animals will suffer, even those who live far from man’s reach. The curse of sin has had far reaching effects, and the work of the Devil also affects all of God’s creation because Satan is so full of rage and hatred toward God that he will attack anything that God made.