In the narrative of the Book of Revelation, the seven bowls are a series of apocalyptic disasters that follow the seven seals and seven trumpets. These disasters are seen as punishments for those who reject the redemption and grace of the Lord and continue to do evil. The pouring out of the seven bowls signifies the climax of the end-time judgment, heralding the arrival of a new heaven and a new earth.
The first angel pours out his bowl into the worshipers of the beast, causing foul and painful sores upon those who bear the mark of the beast.
The second angel pours out his bowl into the sea, turning it into blood, and every living creature in the sea dies.
The third angel pours out his bowl into the rivers and springs of water, turning them into blood, which is a retribution for the blood of the saints and the prophets.
The fourth angel pours out his bowl upon the sun, causing it to scorch people with fire, and they blaspheme Him because of their pain, yet they do not repent.
The fifth angel pours out his bowl on the throne of the beast, causing darkness to fall upon it, and people gnaw their tongues in pain, still blaspheming Him and not repenting.
The sixth angel pours out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, drying it up to prepare the way for the kings from the east.
The seventh angel pours out his bowl into the air, and there comes a loud voice from the throne, saying, "It is done!" And there are flashes of lightning, rumblings, and peals of thunder, and a great earthquake occurs, with cities falling and islands fleeing and mountains disappearing.
The description of the seven plagues is filled with symbolic meaning, reflecting the ultimate judgment of the Lord on sin, marking the climax of the end-time judgment, and heralding the arrival of a new heaven and a new earth.