John's eyes are now lifted from the scene on earth to the one in heaven. Once again, the picture is of the redeemed, as we will see in verse 14, but this time God's protective seal is not required because they are now around the throne. They wear white robes of purity and carry palm branches, which symbolize joy. Palms were used during the Feast of Tabernacles, which was a whole week of rejoicing. (Leviticus 23:33-44, esp. 40) Also, palms were used to line the path of the Lord's triumphal entry. (John 12:12-19) The multitude cannot be numbered by man and comes from every nation under heaven.

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