Revelation 17 reveals a vision shown to the apostle John by an angel. The angel leads John to see a great harlot sitting upon many waters. The harlot represents a city that has influenced the nations and rulers of the earth, tempting them with immorality and leading them astray. She holds a golden cup filled with abominations and filthiness, symbolizing her corrupt and deceitful nature.
The harlot is seen riding upon a scarlet-colored beast with seven heads and ten horns. The beast represents a powerful political system aligned with the harlot. The heads represent both mountains and kings, signifying both political and spiritual authority. The ten horns symbolize ten kings who align themselves with the beast and give their power to it.
The angel explains to John that the beast and the ten horns will eventually turn against the harlot and bring her to destruction. This happens because God puts it in their hearts to fulfill His purposes. The harlot is also identified as the great city that reigns over the kings of the earth.
This chapter contains rich symbolism and imagery, highlighting the spiritual corruption and downfall of an influential city and the political system it aligns with. To explore the depths of each verse in its context, click the links below.