What does Revelation 12:9 mean?

And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. Revelation 12:9

Explanation

Revelation 12:9 describes a symbolic event where a “great dragon” is expelled from Heaven and thrown down to Earth. The dragon is identified as the Devil, Satan, who has been deceiving humanity. The phrase “that old serpent” connects Satan to the serpent in the Garden of Eden, who tempted Adam and Eve. The casting out of Satan and his angels suggests a defeat and loss of authority in Heaven, with Earth as the new battleground for this spiritual conflict.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written by the Apostle John during a time of great persecution for the early Christian community, likely around 95 AD. Revelation is apocalyptic literature, full of symbolism and imagery used to convey hope and encouragement to Christians suffering under Roman oppression. The cultural and historical context of this passage reflects both the struggle of the early Christians and the broader cosmic battle between good and evil.

Theological Insights

Different theological traditions have interpreted this verse in various ways:

• Traditional Christian theology views this verse as a depiction of Satan’s fall from grace and his role as the deceiver of humanity.
• Some pre-millennial dispensationalists believe this event is a prophetic vision that will take place during the end times, in a period of great tribulation.
• Amillennialists may interpret this verse allegorically, with the dragon’s defeat highlighting Christ’s victory over sin and death through the cross and His Resurrection.

Practical Applications

This verse can inspire personal reflection on spiritual warfare and the deceptive nature of evil. Believers may find encouragement in the ultimate defeat of evil, fostering resilience and hope. It can also serve as a reminder of the Christian calling to resist temptations and live in the light of truth.

Cross-References

• Luke 10:18: “And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.”
• Ephesians 6:11-12: “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil… against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
• Isaiah 14:12: “How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text include:

• “δράκων” (drakōn): Dragon, representing a fearsome and powerful enemy.
• “διάβολος” (diabolos): Devil, the accuser or slanderer.
• “Σατανᾶς” (Satanas): Satan, the adversary.
• “πλανάω” (planaō): Deceives, leading astray or causing to wander.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Revelation 12:9 may be compared with other ancient myths where a divine being is cast down to earth, such as the Greek story of Prometheus. In comparative religion, similar motifs of cosmic battles and the fall of rebellious angels appear in traditions like Zoroastrianism, where Angra Mainyu opposes the goodness of Ahura Mazda.

Scientific Perspectives

The imagery in Revelation 12:9 is symbolic and not typically addressed within scientific discourse. However, discussions on the psychological and sociological effects of belief in spiritual warfare and personifications of evil might intersect with scientific perspectives on this verse.

commentaries

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary explains that the great red dragon represents pagan Rome, and the casting out signifies the downfall of idolatry and the spread of Christianity.
• The ESV Study Bible notes that the dragon being thrown down signals Satan’s defeat and limited power after Christ’s resurrection and ascension.
• The New International Commentary on the New Testament suggests that this imagery assures readers that Satan’s accusations are now powerless because of the victory won by Christ.