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Book of Revelation - Chapter 17 - Verse 7

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.

Meaning

Within this verse from the book of Revelation, the angel is speaking to the author, John, revealing to him the mystery of the woman and the beast with seven heads and ten horns. The woman in this context is often interpreted as symbolic of a powerful and seductive entity, such as a false religion or corrupt organization. The beast, on the other hand, is usually seen as representing a tyrannical and oppressive political power. The seven heads and ten horns are symbolic of the beast's authority and dominion. This verse is significant in the book of Revelation as it unveils the mystery behind these entities, shedding light on their true nature and purpose. By understanding the meaning behind the woman and the beast, readers can gain insight into the spiritual warfare and prophetic events described in the book of Revelation.

Theological Overview

One of the key theological interpretations of this verse revolves around the concept of mystery in the book of Revelation. The angel's question to the author, "Wherefore didst thou marvel?" highlights the mysterious and complex nature of the woman and the beast described in the following passage. The term "mystery" in biblical context often refers to hidden or esoteric knowledge that is revealed only through divine revelation. In this case, the angel promises to unveil the mystery of the woman and the beast with seven heads and ten horns, indicating that these figures hold a deeper, symbolic meaning that requires spiritual insight to comprehend. Through word studies of terms like "mystery" and "beast," scholars and theologians can delve deeper into the symbolic significance of these figures in the context of the book of Revelation and biblical prophecy.

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