The Author Making Threats (Rev 22:18–19). The Function of Diseases and Catastrophes in the Revelation of John and in the Corpus defixionum

Abstract

The Revelation of John (Rev), with the plagues (πληγαί) which are set in the increasing cycles of seven, runs towards the great catastrophe par excellence, the destruction of the “great city” Babylon. With the double curse (Rev 22:18–19), the diseases and catastrophes described in the cycles of seven are finally applied to the situation external to the text, i. e. to those who deal with the text and/or its message in an improper way. Taking Rev 22:18–19 as a starting point, this paper explores the literary function of the plagues but also examines them against the backdrop of the ritual complex related to the curse tablets (defixiones), in which the desire that bodily harm befall the enemies also plays a role. Finally, through the comparison, specific narrative accents of the Rev become visible. The powerful words in Rev – such  as curse and beatitude – seem to speak into the everyday world of the addressees and to strengthen them in their trust in God and his justice.