Then one of the seven angels with the seven bowls came and said to me
This phrase introduces a continuation of the vision involving the seven angels who are tasked with pouring out the seven bowls of God's wrath, as seen in Revelation 16. The number seven often symbolizes completeness or perfection in biblical literature, indicating the fullness of God's judgment. The angel's role as a messenger highlights the divine origin of the revelation given to John. This connection to the previous chapter emphasizes the ongoing narrative of judgment and the unfolding of God's plan.

Come, I will show you
The invitation to "come" signifies a transition to a new vision or revelation. It is a call for John to witness and understand the deeper spiritual realities being unveiled. This phrase echoes similar invitations in prophetic literature, where prophets are often called to see visions that reveal God's purposes (e.g., Ezekiel 8:3, Daniel 7:1-2). The act of showing indicates that what follows is a revelation that requires divine insight to comprehend.

the punishment of the great prostitute
The "great prostitute" is a symbolic figure representing a corrupt and idolatrous system, often interpreted as a city or empire that leads people away from God. In the context of Revelation, this figure is commonly associated with Babylon, a symbol of human pride and opposition to God. The term "prostitute" is used metaphorically in the Bible to describe spiritual unfaithfulness and idolatry (e.g., Hosea 1:2, Jeremiah 3:6-9). The punishment signifies God's righteous judgment against such unfaithfulness and corruption.

who sits on many waters
The imagery of "sitting on many waters" suggests dominion and influence over a vast area or multitude of peoples. In ancient times, cities like Babylon were situated by rivers, which were sources of life and commerce, symbolizing power and wealth. The phrase "many waters" is later explained in Revelation 17:15 as representing peoples, multitudes, nations, and languages, indicating the widespread influence and control of the entity symbolized by the great prostitute. This imagery connects to the Old Testament, where waters often symbolize chaos and nations (e.g., Isaiah 17:12-13, Jeremiah 51:13).

The kings of the earth were immoral with her
This phrase refers to the political leaders and rulers who have engaged in spiritual and moral corruption. In biblical symbolism, "immorality" often represents idolatry and unfaithfulness to God. The "kings of the earth" suggests a global influence, indicating that this immorality is widespread and not limited to a single nation or region. Historically, this can be seen as a critique of political systems that align themselves with corrupt religious practices or ideologies, reminiscent of Old Testament prophecies against nations like Babylon and Tyre (Isaiah 23, Jeremiah 50-51). The imagery of immorality also connects to the Old Testament prophets who often described Israel's unfaithfulness to God in terms of adultery (Hosea 1-3, Ezekiel 16).

and those who dwell on the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her immorality.
This part of the verse highlights the pervasive influence of the corrupt system on the general populace. "Those who dwell on the earth" is a phrase used in Revelation to describe people who are opposed to God and His ways (Revelation 3:10, 6:10). The metaphor of being "intoxicated" suggests a loss of moral and spiritual discernment, indicating that the people are not just passively complicit but actively participating in the corruption. The "wine of her immorality" symbolizes the seductive and deceptive nature of the false religious and political systems, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament warnings against being led astray by foreign gods and practices (Proverbs 4:17, Jeremiah 51:7). This imagery also serves as a warning to believers to remain vigilant and not be swayed by the prevailing cultural and spiritual deceptions.

And the angel carried me away in the Spirit into a wilderness
This phrase indicates a spiritual vision or experience, as John is transported by an angel. The "wilderness" often symbolizes a place of desolation or spiritual testing, reminiscent of Israel's journey through the desert and Jesus' temptation. It suggests a setting removed from the distractions of the world, where divine revelations are made clear. The wilderness can also represent the spiritual barrenness of the world system opposed to God.

where I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast
The "woman" is later identified as "Babylon the Great," symbolizing a corrupt system or city opposed to God. Her sitting on the "scarlet beast" indicates a position of control or influence over this beast, which represents a powerful, anti-God political entity. The color "scarlet" is often associated with luxury, sin, and bloodshed, suggesting the opulence and moral corruption of this alliance.

that was covered with blasphemous names
Blasphemous names indicate a direct opposition to God, ascribing divine attributes or titles to something other than God. This reflects the beast's nature as a counterfeit to God's authority, reminiscent of the blasphemies spoken by the little horn in Daniel 7:8. It underscores the beast's role in leading people away from true worship.

and had seven heads and ten horns
The "seven heads" and "ten horns" are symbolic of completeness and power, often interpreted as representing a coalition of kingdoms or rulers. This imagery is consistent with Daniel's visions (Daniel 7:7-8) and is further explained in Revelation 17:9-12, where the heads and horns are linked to specific kings and kingdoms. The number seven often signifies completeness or perfection, while ten can denote fullness or the extent of worldly power. This imagery highlights the beast's formidable influence and the global reach of its authority.

The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet
Purple and scarlet are colors often associated with royalty, wealth, and luxury in biblical times. Purple dye was expensive and difficult to produce, making it a symbol of high status and power. Scarlet, similarly, was a color worn by the elite. In the context of Revelation, these colors may symbolize the seductive allure and deceptive power of the woman, representing a corrupt system or entity that appears attractive and authoritative but is ultimately sinful and opposed to God.

and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls
The adornment with gold, precious stones, and pearls signifies opulence and material wealth. In biblical symbolism, such wealth can indicate both blessing and corruption, depending on the context. Here, it suggests the woman's seductive and deceptive nature, using wealth and beauty to entice and lead astray. This imagery echoes the description of Babylon in the Old Testament, a city known for its wealth and idolatry, and serves as a warning against the dangers of materialism and idolatry.

She held in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the impurities of her sexual immorality
The golden cup represents something that appears valuable and desirable but is filled with abominations and impurities. In biblical terms, abominations often refer to idolatry and practices detestable to God. The impurities of her sexual immorality symbolize spiritual unfaithfulness and corruption. This imagery is reminiscent of Jeremiah 51:7, where Babylon is described as a golden cup in the Lord's hand, making the nations drunk with her wine. The cup's contents highlight the deceptive nature of sin, appearing attractive but leading to spiritual ruin.

And on her forehead a mysterious name was written:
In ancient times, inscriptions on the forehead were often used to signify ownership or identity, as seen with the high priest in Exodus 28:36-38. The forehead represents the mind and will, indicating a deliberate and public declaration of allegiance. The term "mysterious" suggests a hidden or deeper meaning, inviting readers to seek spiritual insight into the identity and nature of this figure.

BABYLON THE GREAT:
Babylon is a symbol of rebellion against God, originating from the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11. Historically, Babylon was a powerful empire known for its idolatry and opposition to God's people, as seen in the Babylonian captivity of the Israelites. In Revelation, Babylon represents a system of worldly power and corruption, often interpreted as a metaphor for Rome or any anti-Christian entity throughout history. The term "Great" emphasizes its significant influence and reach.

THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES:
The imagery of prostitution is used throughout the Bible to describe unfaithfulness to God, particularly in the prophetic books like Hosea and Ezekiel. This phrase suggests that Babylon is the source or origin of spiritual adultery, leading others away from true worship. It implies a pervasive and corrupting influence on nations and peoples, drawing them into idolatry and immorality.

AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH:
Abominations refer to practices that are detestable to God, often associated with idolatry and moral corruption. This phrase indicates that Babylon is not only the source of spiritual unfaithfulness but also of widespread moral decay. It connects to the broader biblical theme of God's judgment against sin and the ultimate triumph of His righteousness, as seen in the prophetic literature and the eschatological visions of Revelation.

I could see that the woman was drunk with the blood of the saints and witnesses for Jesus.
The imagery of the woman being "drunk with the blood" suggests a deep-seated persecution and martyrdom of Christians. Historically, this can be linked to the Roman Empire's persecution of early Christians, where many were martyred for their faith. The "woman" is often interpreted as representing a corrupt system or city, such as Babylon, which symbolizes opposition to God and His people. The "saints and witnesses for Jesus" refers to those who have remained faithful to their testimony of Christ, even unto death. This phrase echoes the earlier visions in Revelation where the souls of martyrs cry out for justice (Revelation 6:9-11). The imagery of blood also connects to the sacrificial system in the Old Testament, where blood was a symbol of life and atonement, contrasting the life-giving blood of Christ with the destructive bloodshed of the saints.

And I was utterly amazed at the sight of her.
The reaction of being "utterly amazed" indicates a profound shock or bewilderment at the vision. This amazement could stem from the stark contrast between the woman's opulent appearance and her gruesome actions. It reflects the seductive and deceptive nature of evil, which can appear alluring yet is ultimately destructive. The apostle John's amazement may also highlight the unexpected nature of persecution and the extent of the woman's influence. This reaction can be compared to other biblical instances where prophets are overwhelmed by visions, such as Daniel's visions in the Old Testament (Daniel 7:15, 28). The amazement underscores the gravity of the vision and the need for discernment among believers to recognize and resist the corrupting influences of the world.

“Why are you so amazed?” said the angel.
The angel's question addresses John's reaction to the vision he is witnessing. In biblical literature, angels often serve as messengers or interpreters of divine visions (Daniel 8:15-17). John's amazement may reflect the shocking nature of the vision, which reveals the spiritual realities behind earthly powers. The angel's role here is to guide John to a deeper understanding, emphasizing that the vision is not meant to confuse but to reveal truth.

“I will tell you the mystery of the woman
The "woman" in this context is symbolic, often interpreted as representing a corrupt system or city, traditionally identified with Babylon. In biblical symbolism, women can represent cities or nations (Isaiah 1:8, Revelation 21:2). The term "mystery" suggests a hidden truth that requires divine revelation to be understood, a common theme in apocalyptic literature (Ephesians 3:3-5).

and of the beast that carries her,
The "beast" is a recurring symbol in Revelation, representing oppressive political powers or empires (Daniel 7:3-7). The imagery of the beast carrying the woman suggests a relationship where the political power supports and upholds the corrupt system. This reflects the historical context of the Roman Empire, which many early Christians saw as embodying such a beastly power.

which has the seven heads and ten horns.
The "seven heads" and "ten horns" are symbolic features that appear elsewhere in Revelation (Revelation 13:1). The seven heads are often interpreted as seven hills, alluding to Rome, known as the city on seven hills, or as seven kings or kingdoms (Revelation 17:9-10). The ten horns are typically seen as ten kings or rulers who will align with the beast (Daniel 7:24). This imagery connects to the prophetic visions in Daniel, where beasts with multiple heads and horns represent successive empires and rulers.

The beast that you saw—it was, and now is no more, but is about to come up out of the Abyss and go to its destruction.
This phrase refers to a symbolic entity known as "the beast," which is often interpreted as a representation of a powerful, evil force or empire. The description "it was, and now is no more" suggests a past existence and a temporary absence, indicating a historical power that once was dominant but has since fallen. The "Abyss" is a term used in biblical literature to describe a place of confinement for evil spirits, suggesting that the beast's re-emergence is a supernatural event. The phrase "go to its destruction" indicates a predetermined end, aligning with biblical prophecies of ultimate judgment and defeat of evil forces, as seen in Daniel 7 and Revelation 19.

And those who dwell on the earth whose names were not written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world will marvel when they see the beast that was, and is not, and yet will be.
This part of the verse highlights the reaction of the earth's inhabitants who are not part of the redeemed, as their names are not in the "Book of Life." This book is a metaphorical record of those who are saved, mentioned in other scriptures such as Philippians 4:3 and Revelation 3:5. The phrase "from the foundation of the world" suggests the eternal nature of God's plan and foreknowledge. The marveling of those who dwell on the earth indicates a sense of awe or confusion at the beast's reappearance, reflecting a lack of spiritual insight or understanding. The repetition of "was, and is not, and yet will be" emphasizes the cyclical and deceptive nature of evil powers, echoing themes of false resurrection and imitation of Christ's eternal nature.

This calls for a mind with wisdom.
This phrase emphasizes the need for discernment and spiritual insight to understand the symbolic language used in Revelation. Wisdom in biblical terms often refers to a God-given ability to perceive spiritual truths (James 1:5). The book of Revelation is apocalyptic literature, rich in symbolism and requiring divine insight to interpret its meanings accurately. This call for wisdom echoes the need for understanding in other parts of Scripture, such as Proverbs 4:7, where wisdom is paramount.

The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman sits.
The "seven heads" symbolize seven mountains, which many scholars and theologians associate with the city of Rome, historically known as the city on seven hills. This geographical reference would have been familiar to the original audience of Revelation, as Rome was the center of power and persecution against Christians at the time. The "woman" is often interpreted as representing a corrupt system or city, possibly symbolizing the Roman Empire or a future manifestation of worldly power opposed to God. The imagery of mountains can also be seen in other biblical contexts as symbols of strength and stability (Psalm 125:2), but here they are linked to a worldly power that is ultimately transient and opposed to God's eternal kingdom.

There are also seven kings.
This phrase introduces a symbolic representation of power and authority. In biblical prophecy, "kings" often symbolize kingdoms or empires. The number seven is significant in Scripture, often representing completeness or perfection. This could suggest a complete series of world powers or a specific sequence of rulers. The context of Revelation, with its apocalyptic imagery, points to these kings as significant figures in the unfolding of God's plan.

Five have fallen,
This indicates that five of these kings or kingdoms have already passed away by the time of John's writing. Historically, this could refer to past empires that have had significant influence over Israel and the biblical narrative, such as Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, and Greece. Each of these empires played a role in the history of God's people and had fallen by the time of the New Testament.

one is,
The "one is" refers to the current power at the time of John's writing, which would be the Roman Empire. Rome was the dominant world power during the first century and had a significant impact on the early Christian church. This aligns with the historical context of Revelation, written during a time of Roman persecution of Christians.

and the other has not yet come.
This phrase points to a future kingdom or ruler that had not yet appeared at the time of John's writing. It suggests a prophetic element, indicating that there will be another significant power or leader in the future. This future entity is often interpreted as a final world empire or a specific end-times ruler in eschatological studies.

But when he does come,
This anticipates the arrival of the future king or kingdom. The language suggests an inevitability, emphasizing the certainty of prophetic fulfillment. This future ruler is often associated with the Antichrist in Christian eschatology, a figure who will oppose Christ and His followers.

he must remain for only a little while.
This indicates the temporary nature of this future ruler's reign. Despite the power and influence this king or kingdom may wield, it will be short-lived in the grand scope of God's eternal plan. This aligns with the biblical theme that earthly powers are transient and ultimately subject to God's sovereign will. The brevity of this reign offers hope to believers, affirming that evil will not prevail indefinitely.

The beast that was, and now is not
This phrase refers to a recurring theme in Revelation concerning the beast, symbolizing a powerful, oppressive empire or ruler. Historically, this has been associated with the Roman Empire, which persecuted early Christians. The "was, and now is not" suggests a temporary cessation or transformation of this power, echoing the idea of a wounded beast in Revelation 13:3. This reflects the cyclical nature of oppressive regimes throughout history, which rise, fall, and sometimes re-emerge in different forms.

is an eighth king
The "eighth king" implies a continuation or culmination of the previous seven kings mentioned earlier in Revelation 17. This could symbolize a future or ultimate manifestation of evil power, distinct yet connected to its predecessors. In biblical numerology, the number eight often signifies new beginnings or a new order, which in this context could mean a final, intensified form of opposition to God’s kingdom.

who belongs to the other seven
This indicates that the eighth king shares characteristics or lineage with the previous seven, suggesting a continuity of rebellion against God. The seven kings can be seen as historical or symbolic representations of earthly powers that have opposed God’s people. This connection emphasizes the persistent nature of evil throughout human history, as seen in Daniel 7, where successive kingdoms oppose God’s rule.

and is going into destruction
The ultimate fate of the beast and the eighth king is destruction, affirming the biblical theme of divine justice and the eventual triumph of God over evil. This echoes the prophetic declarations found in Daniel 2:44 and Revelation 19:20, where God’s kingdom prevails over all earthly powers. It reassures believers of the temporary nature of evil and the certainty of God’s final victory.

The ten horns you saw are ten kings
The imagery of horns often symbolizes power and authority in biblical literature, particularly in prophetic books like Daniel and Revelation. In Daniel 7:24, ten horns represent ten kings that arise from a kingdom. This connection suggests a parallel between Daniel's vision and John's revelation, indicating a continuity in prophetic symbolism. The number ten can symbolize completeness or a full set, suggesting a coalition of rulers.

who have not yet received a kingdom
This phrase indicates a future event, pointing to a time when these kings will come into power. It suggests that these rulers are not yet in possession of their dominions at the time of John's writing. This aligns with the prophetic nature of Revelation, which often speaks of future events and the unfolding of God's plan.

but will receive one hour of authority as kings
The "one hour" signifies a brief period of time, emphasizing the temporary nature of their reign. This brevity contrasts with the eternal kingdom of God, highlighting the transient power of earthly rulers. The phrase underscores the limited scope of their authority, which is granted for a specific purpose within God's sovereign plan.

along with the beast
The beast is a central figure in Revelation, often interpreted as a representation of a powerful, anti-Christian entity or system. The alliance of these ten kings with the beast suggests a unified opposition against God and His people. This coalition reflects the broader theme of spiritual warfare and the ultimate conflict between good and evil depicted throughout Revelation. The beast's role as a central antagonist aligns with other scriptural references to end-times adversaries, such as the "man of lawlessness" in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4.

These kings have one purpose:
The phrase "these kings" refers to the ten kings mentioned earlier in Revelation 17:12. In the context of Revelation, these kings symbolize rulers or leaders who align themselves with the beast, representing a coalition of power against God. The singular "one purpose" indicates a unified agenda, suggesting a concerted effort to oppose God's kingdom. This unity among the kings can be seen as a reflection of the end-times rebellion against divine authority, echoing the Tower of Babel's unified defiance (Genesis 11:1-9).

to yield their power and authority:
The act of yielding power and authority signifies a voluntary submission or transfer of control. In the biblical context, this reflects a significant decision by these rulers to align with the beast, representing a satanic or anti-Christ figure. This transfer of power is reminiscent of the way earthly kingdoms often submit to greater powers for strategic alliances, as seen in historical empires. Theologically, it underscores the theme of human authority being misused in opposition to God's sovereign rule, as seen in the temptation of Christ where Satan offers Him the kingdoms of the world (Matthew 4:8-9).

to the beast:
The "beast" is a central figure in Revelation, often interpreted as a representation of the Antichrist or a system of government opposed to God. This imagery draws from Daniel's visions of beasts representing empires (Daniel 7). The beast's role in Revelation is to lead a final rebellion against God, gathering earthly powers to wage war against the Lamb (Revelation 17:14). Theologically, the beast serves as a counterfeit to Christ, offering a false sense of security and power, ultimately leading to destruction. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative of the conflict between God's kingdom and the forces of evil, culminating in the ultimate victory of Christ.

They will make war against the Lamb
This phrase refers to the forces of evil, represented by the beast and the kings of the earth, who oppose Christ. The imagery of war is symbolic of the spiritual and moral conflict between good and evil. The Lamb is a title for Jesus Christ, emphasizing His role as the sacrificial Savior. This conflict is part of the larger narrative of Revelation, where the forces of darkness are ultimately defeated. The concept of making war against God is seen throughout Scripture, such as in Psalm 2, where the nations conspire against the Lord and His Anointed.

and the Lamb will triumph over them
The triumph of the Lamb signifies the ultimate victory of Christ over all evil. This victory is assured and reflects the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The Lamb's triumph is not through conventional warfare but through His sacrificial death and resurrection, which defeated sin and death. This victory is echoed in passages like 1 Corinthians 15:57, where believers are reminded that victory comes through Jesus Christ.

because He is Lord of lords and King of kings
This title emphasizes the supreme authority and sovereignty of Jesus Christ over all earthly and spiritual powers. It is a declaration of His divine nature and His ultimate rule over all creation. The title "Lord of lords and King of kings" is also found in 1 Timothy 6:15 and Revelation 19:16, underscoring the consistent biblical theme of Christ's preeminence.

and He will be accompanied by His called and chosen and faithful ones.
This phrase highlights the participation of believers in Christ's victory. The "called" refers to those who have responded to God's invitation to salvation. The "chosen" indicates God's sovereign election, and the "faithful" describes those who remain steadfast in their faith. This group represents the Church, the body of believers who are united with Christ in His triumph. The concept of being called, chosen, and faithful is seen in passages like Romans 8:28-30 and 1 Peter 2:9, which speak to the identity and mission of God's people.

Then the angel said to me
This phrase indicates a direct communication from an angel to John, the author of Revelation. Angels often serve as messengers in biblical texts, conveying divine revelations. This interaction underscores the heavenly authority and the importance of the message being delivered. In the context of Revelation, angels frequently guide John through his visions, providing explanations and insights into the symbolic imagery he witnesses.

The waters you saw
Waters in biblical prophecy often symbolize chaos, danger, or the masses of humanity. In Revelation, waters can represent the tumultuous and unstable nature of the world. This imagery is consistent with other biblical references, such as in Isaiah 17:12-13, where nations are compared to the roaring of many waters. The waters here are part of a vision involving a prostitute, symbolizing a corrupt and influential power.

where the prostitute was seated
The prostitute, often referred to as "Babylon the Great," symbolizes a corrupt and idolatrous system or city that exerts significant influence over the world. Her seating on the waters suggests dominion and control over the peoples and nations represented by the waters. This imagery draws from Old Testament depictions of unfaithfulness and idolatry, such as in Jeremiah 51:13, where Babylon is described as dwelling by many waters.

are peoples and multitudes and nations and tongues
This phrase emphasizes the global influence and reach of the entity symbolized by the prostitute. The use of "peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues" highlights the diversity and vastness of those under her sway. It reflects the universal scope of the vision, indicating that the corrupting influence extends across different ethnicities, cultures, and languages. This mirrors the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, where the gospel is to be preached to all nations, contrasting the spread of corruption with the spread of the gospel.

And the ten horns and the beast that you saw
The "ten horns" represent ten kings or kingdoms that align with the beast, a symbol of a powerful, oppressive empire or ruler. This imagery is consistent with Daniel 7:24, where ten horns also symbolize ten kings. The beast is often interpreted as a representation of a final world empire or a coalition of nations opposing God. The vision given to John in Revelation draws heavily on Old Testament prophetic imagery, emphasizing the continuity of God's revelation.

will hate the prostitute.
The "prostitute" symbolizes Babylon, representing a corrupt and idolatrous system or city that seduces and deceives the nations. In the historical context, Babylon was a literal city known for its wealth and immorality, but in Revelation, it takes on a symbolic meaning. The hatred of the prostitute by the ten horns and the beast indicates a turning point where the political powers that once supported this corrupt system will turn against it, fulfilling God's judgment.

They will leave her desolate and naked,
This phrase signifies complete abandonment and exposure. In ancient times, to be left desolate and naked was a sign of utter disgrace and defeat. The imagery suggests that the powers that once upheld the prostitute will strip her of her wealth and influence, leaving her vulnerable and humiliated. This reflects the biblical principle that sin ultimately leads to destruction and shame (Ezekiel 16:37-39).

and they will eat her flesh
This graphic imagery indicates total consumption and destruction. In biblical terms, to "eat flesh" can symbolize complete annihilation (Micah 3:3). The phrase underscores the thoroughness of the judgment against the prostitute, as those who once allied with her will now devour her, leaving nothing behind.

and burn her with fire.
Burning with fire is a common biblical metaphor for judgment and purification (Leviticus 20:14, 21:9). In the context of Revelation, it signifies the final and irrevocable destruction of the corrupt system represented by the prostitute. Fire is often used in Scripture to depict God's holy judgment, purging evil and purifying what remains (Malachi 3:2-3). This act fulfills the divine justice against the forces of wickedness, aligning with the prophetic declarations of God's ultimate victory over evil.

For God has put it into their hearts
This phrase emphasizes the sovereignty of God over human affairs. Throughout Scripture, God is depicted as having the power to influence the hearts and minds of individuals and nations (Proverbs 21:1). This divine influence is not coercive but aligns with His ultimate plan. The hardening of Pharaoh's heart in Exodus is a parallel example, where God's purposes are fulfilled through human decisions.

to carry out His purpose
God's purpose is central to the unfolding events in Revelation. This reflects the biblical theme that God's will is ultimately accomplished, despite human rebellion or satanic opposition (Isaiah 46:10). The purpose here involves the judgment and eventual downfall of Babylon, representing the corrupt world system opposed to God.

by uniting to give their kingdom to the beast
The "beast" is a symbol of oppressive political power, often interpreted as a future world leader or system in opposition to God. The uniting of kingdoms under the beast's authority suggests a temporary alliance of worldly powers. This mirrors the historical alliances seen in Daniel's visions (Daniel 7), where empires rise and fall under divine oversight.

until the words of God are fulfilled
This phrase underscores the certainty of prophetic fulfillment. The "words of God" refer to the prophecies and promises throughout Scripture that detail the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. This assurance is echoed in passages like Matthew 24:35, where Jesus affirms the enduring truth of God's word. The fulfillment of these words is a testament to God's faithfulness and the reliability of biblical prophecy.

And the woman you saw
The "woman" in this passage is a symbolic figure representing a powerful entity. In the context of Revelation, she is often associated with Babylon, a symbol of worldly power and corruption. This imagery is consistent with the use of women as symbols in prophetic literature, such as Jezebel in Revelation 2:20, representing false teaching and idolatry.

is the great city
The "great city" is a metaphor for a dominant cultural and political power. Historically, Babylon was a literal city known for its grandeur and influence, but in Revelation, it represents a system of opposition to God. This city is characterized by wealth, immorality, and persecution of the saints, as seen in Revelation 18:10-24.

that rules over the kings of the earth.
This phrase indicates the city's extensive influence and control over global leaders. In the first-century context, this could be seen as a reference to Rome, which held significant power over the known world. Theologically, it represents any worldly system that exerts control and leads nations away from God's purposes. This aligns with the prophetic tradition of empires being used as instruments of divine judgment, as seen in Daniel 2:37-38, where Nebuchadnezzar's Babylon is described as having dominion over the earth.