I saw a scroll in the right hand of the one who sits on the throne; it was covered with writing on both sides and was sealed with seven seals.

They sang a new song: "You are worthy to take the scroll and to break open its seals. For you were killed, and by your sacrificial death you bought for God people from every tribe, language, nation, and race.

Then I saw the Lamb break open the first of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures say in a voice that sounded like thunder, "Come!"

Then the Lamb broke open the second seal; and I heard the second living creature say, "Come!"

Then the Lamb broke open the third seal; and I heard the third living creature say, "Come!" I looked, and there was a black horse. Its rider held a pair of scales in his hand.

Then the Lamb broke open the fourth seal; and I heard the fourth living creature say, "Come!"

Then the Lamb broke open the fifth seal. I saw underneath the altar the souls of those who had been killed because they had proclaimed God's word and had been faithful in their witnessing.

And I saw the Lamb break open the sixth seal. There was a violent earthquake, and the sun became black like coarse black cloth, and the moon turned completely red like blood.

I could see something standing there; I stared, but couldn't tell what it was. Then I heard a voice out of the silence:

Be patient and wait for the LORD to act; don't be worried about those who prosper or those who succeed in their evil plans.

I wait patiently for God to save me; I depend on him alone.

The LORD is in his holy Temple; let everyone on earth be silent in his presence.

Be silent, everyone, in the presence of the LORD, for he is coming from his holy dwelling place.