Another strong angel (αλλον αγγελον ισχυρον). But the seventh trumpet does not sound till . This angel is not one of the seven or of the four, but like the other strong angel in ;  or the other angel in ; . The sixth trumpet of  ends in . The opening of the seventh seal was preceded by two visions (chapter ) and so here the sounding of the seventh trumpet () is preceded by a new series of visions ().

Coming down out of heaven (καταβαινοντα εκ του ουρανου). Present active participle of καταβαινω picturing the process of the descent as in  (cf. ).

Arrayed with a cloud (περιβεβλημενον νεφελην). Perfect passive participle of περιβαλλω with accusative case retained as in ; . Not proof that this angel is Christ, though Christ will come on the clouds () as he ascended on a cloud (). God's chariot is in the clouds (), but this angel is a special messenger of God's.

The rainbow (η ιρις). See Revelation 4:3 for this word. The construction here is changed from the accusative to the nominative.

As the sun (ως ο ηλιος). The very metaphor applied to Christ in Revelation 1:16.

As pillars of fire (ως στυλο πυρος). Somewhat like the metaphor of Christ in Revelation 1:15, but still no proof that this angel is Christ. On στυλος see Revelation 3:12; Galatians 2:9.