The book is traditionally attributed to John the Apostle,[1][2] but the precise identity of the author remains a point of academic debate.

Some early manuscripts containing the text of this chapter are among others:[7][a] God's sovereignty over all things is symbolized by the throne, which visions are found both in the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament prophetic tradition (cf.

1 Kings 22:19—23) as well as in some Jewish apocalypses, and in this chapter (echoing Isaiah 6 and Ezekiel 1) is seen as "already fully acknowledged in heaven, and therefore as the true reality which must in the end prevail on earth".

[6] Taken up into heaven, John can see that "God's throne is the ultimate reality behind all earthly appearances".

[11] The depiction of God's sovereignty starts with him as the 'Creator of all things', then as 'Redeemer' to restore his universal sovereignty on earth (Revelation 5), with the expectation to renew his whole creation in the end (Revelation 21:5).