Revelation 17, one of the more intensely symbolic chapters of the Book of Revelation, presents John’s vision of a great prostitute, known as Babylon, who commits spiritual adultery with the kings of the earth. Accompanied by an angel, John also witnesses a mysterious beast with seven heads and ten horns. The chapter is a striking picture of the corruption and seduction of worldly alliances and a prophetic foretelling of divine judgment.
First-century believers lived under Rome’s growing demand for emperor worship. “Babylon” served as a code name for Rome (1 Peter 5:13), recalling ancient Babylon’s wealth, idolatry, and cruelty. Rome famously sat on seven hills, yet the vision also stretches beyond Rome to every world system that seduces and persecutes God’s people.
• As “mother,” she spawns every form of rebellion against God.
• “Was, and is not, and is to come” hints at a past empire, present absence, and future revival under a final world ruler.
• The seven hills of Rome were common knowledge: Aventine, Caelian, Capitoline, Esquiline, Palatine, Quirinal, Viminal.
• The seven kings align with major empires hostile to God’s people: Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece (fallen); Rome (present); a future empire (yet to come).
• The beast as an eighth shows a final, composite rebellion that ends in destruction (Daniel 2:44-45).
• Their “one hour” of power underlines the short life of their partnership with the beast.
• Early Christians endured Nero and Domitian; later believers have faced similar hostility.
• Roman coins portray Roma as a seated woman, echoing the harlot’s pose.
• Excavations reveal sumptuous purple fabrics and scarlet togas of the elite.
• Clay tablets from Babylon record vast trade, matching the wealth in chapter 18.
• Ancient writers celebrated Rome’s seven hills, reinforcing the imagery.
• The Prostitute—gaudy, unfaithful, aligned with tyrants, doomed to fire.
• The Bride—pure, robed in fine linen (19:8), united with Christ, reigning forever (21:2-4).
1. Resist systems promising gain at the cost of faithfulness.
3. Remember all earthly powers have expiration dates; Christ’s kingdom does not (Hebrews 12:28).
Chapter 17 reveals the woman’s identity; chapter 18 describes her economic collapse. Together they announce the downfall of every religious, political, and commercial rebellion before the King’s return (Revelation 19:11-16).
However dark the picture, the brightest line stands: “the Lamb will triumph over them” (17:14). His followers share that victory now and forever.
Connections to Additional Scriptures
Jeremiah 51:7Babylon as a golden cup in the Lord's hand, making the nations drunk, parallels the imagery in
Revelation 17.
Daniel 7:23-25The vision of the fourth beast and ten horns in Daniel aligns with the beast in
Revelation 17.
2 Thessalonians 2:3-4The man of lawlessness and rebellion against God connects with the themes of opposition in
Revelation 17.
1 John 2:15-17A call to not love the world or anything in it, emphasizing separation from worldly systems.
Teaching Points
The Great ProstituteRevelation 17:1-2 introduces the great prostitute who sits on many waters, symbolizing a corrupt and idolatrous system that leads nations astray. This imagery represents spiritual adultery and unfaithfulness to God.
The Scarlet BeastIn
Revelation 17:3, John sees a woman sitting on a scarlet beast with blasphemous names, having seven heads and ten horns. The beast represents political power and opposition to God, often interpreted as a coalition of worldly governments.
The Mystery of BabylonRevelation 17:5 reveals the name Babylon the Great, symbolizing a system of false religion and moral corruption. Babylon is a recurring biblical symbol for rebellion against God.
The Drunkenness of the NationsRevelation 17:6 describes the woman as drunk with the blood of the saints, highlighting the persecution and martyrdom of believers throughout history.
The Angel's ExplanationIn
Revelation 17:7-18, an angel explains the vision, revealing the identities of the beast and the woman. The seven heads are seven mountains and also represent seven kings, while the ten horns are ten kings who will give their power to the beast.
The Ultimate DefeatRevelation 17:14 declares that the Lamb will overcome the beast and its allies, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with Him are called, chosen, and faithful.
Practical Applications
Discernment in Spiritual MattersBelievers must exercise discernment to recognize and resist spiritual deception and false teachings that lead away from God.
Faithfulness in PersecutionThe chapter encourages Christians to remain faithful even in the face of persecution, trusting in God's ultimate victory.
Separation from Worldly SystemsChristians are called to live distinctively, avoiding entanglement with corrupt and idolatrous systems that oppose God's kingdom.
Hope in Christ's VictoryThe assurance of Christ's victory over evil provides hope and encouragement for believers to persevere in their faith.
People
1.
The Great Prostitute (Harlot)Description: The Great Prostitute is depicted as sitting on many waters and is associated with the kings of the earth committing adultery with her. She is described as being adorned in purple and scarlet, and holding a golden cup filled with abominations.
Scripture: "Then one of the seven angels with the seven bowls came and said to me, 'Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits on many waters.'" (
Revelation 17:1)
Greek Root: The term "prostitute" (πόρνη, pornē) is often interpreted as symbolizing false religion or a corrupt system that leads people away from God.
2.
The BeastDescription: The Beast is described as scarlet and full of blasphemous names, having seven heads and ten horns. It is the entity upon which the Great Prostitute sits.
Scripture: "And I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast that was covered with blasphemous names and had seven heads and ten horns." (
Revelation 17:3)
Greek Root: The word "beast" (θηρίον, thērion) is often interpreted as representing a powerful, oppressive political system or empire.
3.
The Kings of the EarthDescription: These are the rulers who have committed adultery with the Great Prostitute and are described as being intoxicated with the wine of her adulteries.
Scripture: "With her the kings of the earth committed sexual immorality, and the inhabitants of the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her adulteries." (
Revelation 17:2)
Greek Root: The term "kings" (βασιλεῖς, basileis) refers to earthly rulers or leaders who align themselves with corrupt systems.
4.
The Seven HeadsDescription: These are described as seven mountains on which the woman sits, and they also represent seven kings.
Scripture: "This calls for a mind with wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman sits." (
Revelation 17:9)
Greek Root: The term "heads" (κεφαλαί, kephalai) symbolizes authority or leadership, often interpreted as successive empires or kingdoms.
5.
The Ten HornsDescription: These are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom but will receive authority as kings for one hour with the beast.
Scripture: "The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but will receive one hour of authority as kings along with the beast." (
Revelation 17:12)
Greek Root: The term "horns" (κέρατα, kerata) often symbolizes power or strength, representing emerging rulers or powers.
6.
The LambDescription: The Lamb is Jesus Christ, who is described as overcoming the beast and the kings because He is Lord of lords and King of kings.
Scripture: "They will make war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will triumph over them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings—and He will be accompanied by His called and chosen and faithful ones." (
Revelation 17:14)
Greek Root: The term "Lamb" (ἀρνίον, arnion) is a title for Jesus, emphasizing His role as the sacrificial Savior.
Places
1.
The WildernessDescription: In
Revelation 17:3, John is carried away in the Spirit into a wilderness. This setting is symbolic, often representing a place of desolation or spiritual barrenness. The Greek word used here is "ἔρημος" (erēmos), which can mean a deserted or solitary place.
2.
The Great CityDescription:
Revelation 17:18 refers to "the great city that rules over the kings of the earth." This city is often interpreted as a symbol of a powerful, corrupt system or empire. The Greek term "πόλις" (polis) is used, which means city, but in this context, it represents more than just a physical location; it embodies a center of influence and authority.
Events
1.
The Vision of the Great ProstituteAn angel shows John a vision of a woman sitting on a scarlet beast. The woman is described as "the great prostitute who sits on many waters" (
Revelation 17:1). The Greek word for "prostitute" is "πόρνη" (pornē), symbolizing idolatry and false religion.
2.
The Kings of the Earth Commit ImmoralityThe kings of the earth are said to have committed sexual immorality with her, and the inhabitants of the earth are intoxicated with the wine of her immorality (
Revelation 17:2). The Greek word "πορνεία" (porneia) is used, indicating spiritual unfaithfulness.
3.
The Woman on the Scarlet BeastJohn sees the woman sitting on a scarlet beast covered with blasphemous names, having seven heads and ten horns (
Revelation 17:3). The beast represents a coalition of political powers opposed to God.
4.
The Woman's Adornments and CupThe woman is adorned in purple and scarlet, glittering with gold, precious stones, and pearls. She holds a golden cup filled with abominations and the impurities of her immorality (
Revelation 17:4). The Greek word "βδέλυγμα" (bdelygma) refers to detestable things, often associated with idolatry.
5.
The Name on Her ForeheadThe woman has a name written on her forehead: "Mystery: Babylon the Great, the Mother of Prostitutes and of the Abominations of the Earth" (
Revelation 17:5). The term "μυστήριον" (mystērion) indicates a hidden truth now revealed.
6.
The Woman Drunk with the Blood of the SaintsJohn observes that the woman is drunk with the blood of the saints and the martyrs of Jesus (
Revelation 17:6). This symbolizes persecution and martyrdom of believers.
7.
The Angel's Explanation of the BeastThe angel explains the mystery of the woman and the beast with seven heads and ten horns (
Revelation 17:7). The beast "was, and is not, and is about to rise" (
Revelation 17:8), indicating a past, present, and future aspect of its existence.
8.
The Seven Heads and Ten HornsThe seven heads are seven mountains and also represent seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, and the other has not yet come (
Revelation 17:9-10). The ten horns are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom but will receive authority with the beast for one hour (
Revelation 17:12).
9.
The War Against the LambThe ten kings will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them because He is Lord of lords and King of kings (
Revelation 17:14).
10.
The Waters and the WomanThe waters where the prostitute sits are peoples, multitudes, nations, and languages (
Revelation 17:15). This indicates her global influence.
11.
The Beast and the Ten Horns Turn Against the ProstituteThe beast and the ten horns will hate the prostitute, make her desolate, and burn her with fire (
Revelation 17:16). This shows a turning against the false religious system.
12.
God's Sovereign PlanGod has put it into their hearts to accomplish His purpose by agreeing to give their kingdom to the beast until His words are fulfilled (
Revelation 17:17).
13.
The Woman Identified as the Great CityThe woman is identified as the great city that rules over the kings of the earth (
Revelation 17:18). This city is often interpreted as a symbol of a corrupt world system.
Lessons from Revelation 17
1. The Allure of Worldly Power
Revelation 17 introduces us to the "great prostitute" who sits on many waters, symbolizing the seductive allure of worldly power and influence. This imagery reminds us that earthly power can be enticing but ultimately leads to destruction. As believers, we are called to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33), rather than being swayed by the temporary allure of worldly success.
2. The Deceptive Nature of Sin
The chapter vividly describes the woman adorned in purple and scarlet, glittering with gold, precious stones, and pearls. This opulence represents the deceptive nature of sin, which often appears attractive but conceals its true destructive nature. "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23). We must remain vigilant and discerning, recognizing that true beauty and fulfillment come from a life rooted in Christ.
3. The Ultimate Defeat of Evil
Revelation 17 assures us of the ultimate defeat of evil. The beast and the ten kings will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph because He is Lord of lords and King of kings (Revelation 17:14). This victory is a powerful reminder that no matter how formidable evil may seem, it is no match for the power and authority of Jesus Christ.
4. The Sovereignty of God
The chapter highlights God's sovereignty over all nations and rulers. Despite the chaos and rebellion depicted, God remains in control, orchestrating events according to His divine plan. "For God has put it into their hearts to accomplish His purpose" (Revelation 17:17). This truth provides comfort and assurance that nothing happens outside of God's will.
5. The Call to Spiritual Discernment
Revelation 17 calls us to exercise spiritual discernment. The imagery of the woman and the beast requires us to look beyond the surface and understand the spiritual realities at play. As believers, we are encouraged to "test the spirits to see whether they are from God" (1 John 4:1), ensuring that our beliefs and actions align with Scripture.
6. The Temporary Nature of Earthly Alliances
The ten kings who align with the beast represent the temporary nature of earthly alliances. These alliances are based on self-interest and will ultimately crumble. Our trust should be in the eternal and unchanging nature of God, who promises to be with us always (Matthew 28:20).
7. The Importance of Faithfulness
In contrast to the unfaithfulness depicted in the chapter, believers are called to remain faithful to Christ. The Lamb's followers are described as "called, chosen, and faithful" (Revelation 17:14). Our faithfulness is a testament to our commitment to Christ and His kingdom, even in the face of adversity.
8. The Consequences of Rebellion
The chapter serves as a stark warning of the consequences of rebellion against God. The judgment that befalls the woman and the beast is a reminder that rebellion leads to destruction. "Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return" (Galatians 6:7). We are called to live in obedience to God's Word.
9. The Role of Prophecy in Encouragement
Revelation 17, like much of the book, uses prophecy to encourage believers. The foretelling of the downfall of evil serves to strengthen our faith and resolve. It reminds us that God's promises are true and that His justice will prevail. "For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy" (Revelation 19:10).
10. The Hope of Redemption
Amidst the vivid imagery and warnings,Revelation 17 ultimately points to the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ. The chapter underscores the reality that, despite the presence of evil, redemption is available to all who turn to Christ. "For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son" (Colossians 1:13). This hope is the anchor for our souls, encouraging us to persevere in faith.
Topics
1.
The Great Prostitute and the BeastRevelation 17 opens with a vision of a "great prostitute" seated on many waters. This imagery symbolizes a corrupt and idolatrous system, often interpreted as representing false religion or a corrupt city. The Greek word for "prostitute" is "πόρνη" (pornē), indicating immorality and unfaithfulness.
2.
The Kings of the EarthThe passage describes how the kings of the earth have committed adultery with the prostitute, symbolizing political alliances and complicity with corrupt systems. The Greek term "βασιλεῖς" (basileis) refers to rulers or sovereigns, emphasizing their power and influence.
3.
The Woman on the Scarlet BeastThe woman is depicted sitting on a scarlet beast, full of blasphemous names and having seven heads and ten horns. This beast represents a powerful, blasphemous entity or empire. The Greek word "θηρίον" (thērion) for "beast" suggests a wild, dangerous creature.
4.
Mystery: Babylon the GreatThe woman is identified with a name written on her forehead: "Mystery: Babylon the Great, the mother of prostitutes and of the abominations of the earth." This title links her to Babylon, a symbol of rebellion against God. The Greek "μυστήριον" (mystērion) implies a hidden truth now revealed.
5.
The Drunkenness with the Blood of the SaintsThe woman is described as being drunk with the blood of the saints and the martyrs of Jesus, indicating persecution and martyrdom of believers. The Greek "μάρτυς" (martys) for "martyrs" refers to witnesses, emphasizing their testimony even unto death.
6.
The Angel's ExplanationAn angel explains the mystery of the woman and the beast, revealing the symbolic nature of the vision. The Greek "ἄγγελος" (angelos) means messenger, highlighting the divine source of the revelation.
7.
The Seven Heads and Ten HornsThe seven heads are interpreted as seven mountains and also as seven kings, while the ten horns represent ten kings who will receive authority for a short time. The Greek "ὄρος" (oros) for "mountains" and "κέρας" (keras) for "horns" symbolize power and authority.
8.
The Beast's DefeatThe beast, which once was and now is not, will go to its destruction. This indicates the temporary nature of its power and the ultimate victory of God. The Greek "ἀπώλεια" (apōleia) for "destruction" signifies complete ruin.
9.
The Victory of the LambThe Lamb will overcome the beast and its allies, as He is Lord of lords and King of kings. This emphasizes the sovereignty and ultimate triumph of Christ. The Greek "κύριος" (kyrios) for "Lord" and "βασιλεύς" (basileus) for "King" underscore His supreme authority.
10.
The Waters as Peoples and NationsThe waters on which the prostitute sits are explained as peoples, multitudes, nations, and languages, indicating the widespread influence of the corrupt system. The Greek "ἔθνος" (ethnos) for "nations" highlights the global scope.
11.
The Destruction of the ProstituteThe ten horns and the beast will hate the prostitute, leading to her desolation and destruction. This internal conflict signifies the self-destructive nature of evil. The Greek "ἐρημόω" (erēmoō) for "desolation" implies complete devastation.
12.
God's Sovereign PlanThe chapter concludes with the affirmation that God has put it into the hearts of the kings to accomplish His purpose, demonstrating divine sovereignty over human history. The Greek "βουλή" (boulē) for "purpose" indicates a deliberate plan or counsel.
Themes
1.
The Great Prostitute and the BeastRevelation 17 introduces the vision of the "great prostitute" sitting on a scarlet beast. This imagery symbolizes the corrupting influence of false religion and political power. The Greek word used for "prostitute" (πόρνη, pornē) indicates spiritual unfaithfulness and idolatry. The beast represents oppressive empires or political systems that support and are supported by this false religious system.
2.
Judgment of the ProstituteThe chapter emphasizes the impending judgment on the great prostitute, symbolizing God's ultimate justice against spiritual adultery and corruption.
Revelation 17:1 states, "Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits on many waters." The "many waters" symbolize peoples, multitudes, nations, and languages, indicating the widespread influence of this corrupt system.
3.
The Kings of the EarthThe kings of the earth are depicted as being in alliance with the prostitute, committing acts of immorality and being intoxicated by her power (
Revelation 17:2). This theme highlights the complicity of worldly leaders in supporting corrupt systems for their gain, reflecting the Greek term βασιλεῖς (basileis), meaning rulers or kings.
4.
Mystery BabylonThe name "Babylon the Great" is written on the forehead of the prostitute, symbolizing the city or system that embodies opposition to God (
Revelation 17:5). The term "mystery" (μυστήριον, mystērion) suggests a hidden truth now revealed, pointing to the spiritual reality behind the physical manifestation of evil.
5.
The Beast's Seven Heads and Ten HornsThe beast's seven heads and ten horns are explained as representing seven kings and ten future kings who will receive authority for a short time (
Revelation 17:9-12). This theme underscores the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate sovereignty of God over history.
6.
The Lamb's VictoryDespite the apparent power of the beast and the prostitute,
Revelation 17:14 declares, "They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because He is Lord of lords and King of kings." This theme emphasizes the ultimate victory of Christ, the Lamb, over all evil forces.
7.
The Fall of BabylonThe chapter foreshadows the fall of Babylon, symbolizing the collapse of corrupt systems opposed to God.
Revelation 17:16-17 describes how the beast and the ten horns will turn against the prostitute, fulfilling God's purpose. This theme highlights the self-destructive nature of evil and God's sovereign plan.
Prayer Points
Pray for DiscernmentAsk God for wisdom and discernment to recognize and resist spiritual deception in our lives and communities.
Pray for Faithfulness
Seek God's strength to remain faithful amidst trials and persecution, trusting in His ultimate victory.
Pray for Purity
Request God's help to live a life set apart from worldly corruption and idolatry, reflecting His holiness.
Pray for Hope
Thank God for the assurance of Christ's victory and pray for hope and encouragement for believers facing challenges.
Answering Tough Questions
1.
In Revelation 17:1–2, the “great prostitute” is said to corrupt the earth’s inhabitants; is there any historical or archaeological evidence linking a specific empire or city to this figure?2.Revelation 17:9 associates seven heads with seven hills; how reliably does this align with ancient Rome, and could it point to another location?
3.Revelation 17:10–11 mentions seven kings and an eighth belonging to the seven; how does this numeric sequence fit known historical or royal lineages?
4.Revelation 17:12–14 describes ten kings who rule briefly before opposing the Lamb; how can skeptics reconcile this passage with a lack of evidence for such a short-term alliance?
5.Revelation 17:18 claims a great city rules over the earth’s kings; what tangible proof exists that identifies a single city wielding such global power at any point in history?
Bible Study Discussion Questions
1. What does the prostitute represent in today's context? How do you see the spirit of Babylon in the world today?
2. How can you apply the lessons from the beast's alliance with the kings to the relationships and alliances you form in your own life?
3. Why is the prostitute described as being adorned with gold, precious stones, and pearls? What could this represent?
4. How does the judgment of the prostitute reflect God's justice? How does this imagery resonate with you?
5. What does the description of the beast as one who “once was, now is not, and yet will come” tell us about the deceptive nature of evil?
6. The kings wage war against the Lamb but are defeated. How does this encourage you in the face of adversity?
7. How does the imagery of the prostitute "drunk with the blood of God’s holy people" inspire you to persevere in your faith amidst persecution?
8. In what ways does our society "trade" with the great prostitute, engaging in spiritual infidelity?
9. Why do you think the beast and the ten kings turn against the prostitute? What does this reveal about the nature of worldly alliances?
10. How does the understanding of the prostitute as the "great city" resonate with the modern concept of worldly and secular influences?
11. What are some actions you can take to resist the temptation of spiritual adultery in today's society?
12. How can Revelation 17 help you understand and respond to the current religious and political climate?
13. How does the final revelation of the woman as a city ruling over the kings of the earth affect your understanding of the pervasive influence of Babylon?
14. What does the fate of the prostitute teach you about the temporal nature of worldly pleasures and power?
15. How can the victory of the Lamb over the beast and his allies inspire courage and hope in your personal life?
16. In what ways do you see the spirit of the beast operating in the world today, and how can you counteract its influence?
17. How does God use the beast and the ten kings to fulfill His words and purposes, and what does this say about God's sovereignty?
18. What are some real-life situations where you've witnessed the false allure of the "great prostitute"?
19. How can you help others recognize and resist the temptations represented by the great prostitute?
20. Considering the ultimate victory of the Lamb, how can this influence your daily actions, decisions, and attitudes towards hardships?
Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions
