What is Revelation 17?

 Revelation 17 is a highly symbolic and dramatic chapter in the final book of the Bible. It focuses on the vision of "Babylon the Great," portrayed as a seductive and corrupt woman riding a beast. This chapter provides a prophetic and theological commentary on the nature of evil, political power, and divine judgment. It offers insight into the fall of worldly empires that oppose God.

The Vision of the Woman and the Beast

The chapter begins with one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls of God's wrath (from Revelation 16) inviting John to witness the judgment of the "great prostitute who sits by many waters." This woman represents a powerful and influential entity, later identified with Babylon, symbolic of a corrupt system of world power, wealth, and immorality. She is said to commit adultery with the kings of the earth, meaning she leads them into spiritual corruption and idolatry. If you need any information on this article-related topic, click here. revelation 17

John sees the woman sitting on a scarlet beast covered with blasphemous names and having seven heads and ten horns. This beast resembles the one seen in Revelation 13 and represents a conglomeration of worldly empires or rulers that support and carry the corrupt system symbolised by the woman.

On her forehead is a name written:

"Babylon the Great, the Mother of Prostitutes and the Abominations of the Earth."

John is astonished at the sight, prompting the angel to explain the vision.

The Angel’s Explanation

The angel explains that the beast “was, and is not, and is about to come up from the Abyss,” referring to a political power or empire that once existed, temporarily disappeared, but will rise again. Many scholars associate this with the Roman Empire or with future forms of anti-God governance.

Conclusion: Revelation 17 depicts a symbolic and prophetic vision of corrupt world systems judged by God. It highlights the seductive nature of evil, the futility of opposing Christ, and the certainty of divine justice.