Revelation 17:7

And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns.

Revelation 17:7 (KJV)

Context

The book of Revelation is prophetic and highly symbolic, using vivid imagery to convey its message. In this verse, the apostle John is being addressed by an angel who offers to explain the mystery of the woman and the beast. The angel’s question, “Wherefore didst thou marvel?” is not a rebuke; John’s wonder was not sinful admiration or worship of the woman. Rather, the question is designed to show that the cause of his surprise will be removed or lessened, as the angel proceeds to explain the vision’s design.

Meaning

The angel promises to tell John “the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her.” The term “mystery” refers to a hidden symbolic meaning that is about to be revealed. This mystery represents the hidden knowledge or understanding that God is about to disclose, signifying that there is a spiritual truth concealed behind the symbolic language used in the book of Revelation.

The woman is identified in the immediate context as “Babylon the Great” (Revelation 17:5), and she is portrayed as sitting on a scarlet beast. Throughout Revelation, the woman is often depicted as a symbol of a corrupt and worldly system, representing both a religious and political entity.

The beast mentioned in this verse represents a powerful and oppressive political system that aligns itself with the woman. It has seven heads and ten horns, which are symbols of its authority and power. The beast is also described as one that “was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition” (Revelation 17:8), indicating its temporary and doomed nature.

Biblical connections

The angel’s explanation continues in the following verses, where the seven heads are interpreted as seven mountains and seven kings, and the ten horns as ten kings (Revelation 17:9-10). In biblical prophecy, beasts often represent political powers or kingdoms. The purpose of the angel’s explanation is to give John a correct view of the vision’s design, moving him from mere astonishment to understanding.

Application

The interpretation of this verse requires careful consideration of the broader context and the symbolism used in the book of Revelation. Various interpretations have been proposed over the centuries, but it is essential to approach these interpretations with humility and a recognition that they are subject to interpretation. Interpretations of Revelation can vary among different Christian traditions. Some see the woman as representing a specific historical entity, such as the city of Rome or a false religious system. Others view the woman as a symbolic representation of spiritual and moral corruption that can be found throughout human history.

To gain a deeper understanding of this verse and the book of Revelation as a whole, it is recommended to study the entire book in context, considering other relevant passages, and consulting trusted commentaries or study resources that align with your theological beliefs.

Reflection

Remember, the primary purpose of the book of Revelation is to reveal Jesus Christ as the victorious and sovereign Lord over all things and to encourage believers to remain faithful and persevere in the face of trials and tribulations.