This chapter begins with a vision of the heavenly court. The author appears to have the imperial court—Roman or Persian— in mind, with the senate and advisors accompanying the emperor as part of his entourage. God is shown seated on the throne; therefore, he is the owner and ruler of the entire universe. The brilliance of the most dazzling precious stones surrounds him like a chromatic halo: He is God from God. Light from light. Supreme beauty. The rainbow encircling him resembles the shining ring of his covenant with humanity. God is celebrated as the Creator. His creative activity, the unfolding of his plan for life, is highlighted in the structure of Revelation: at the beginning (4:11) and at the end (21:6).