What does Revelation 13:11 mean?

And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. Revelation 13:11

Explanation

Revelation 13:11 introduces a second beast arising, which contrasts with the first beast that comes from the sea in Revelation 13:1-10. This second beast is said to have “two horns like a lamb” but speaks “as a dragon,” indicating a contradiction between its appearance and its words. The lamb-like horns suggest an outward appearance of innocence or gentleness, reminiscent of Christ, who is often symbolized as a lamb in Christian iconography. However, the beast’s speech is like a dragon’s, suggesting deception and malevolence. The verse implies a figure or power that appears benign but masks a dangerous, deceitful nature. It plays a significant role in the apocalyptic narrative of Revelation, signaling the coming of an entity that will play a part in the end times, deceiving many with a facade of righteousness.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation, also known as the Apocalypse, is traditionally ascribed to John and is the last book of the New Testament. It was likely written towards the end of the 1st century AD during a time of persecution of Christians under Roman rule. The historical context is one in which early Christians would be susceptible to external pressures and could be swayed by figures or authorities that demanded loyalty contrary to their faith. The imagery of beasts was a typical apocalyptic symbol, often relating to oppressive empires or powers. The dual imagery of lamb-like horns and dragon-like speech reflects early Christian anxieties about false prophets or leaders who would mislead the faithful.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse has been interpreted in a variety of ways. Some see it as a prophecy regarding false prophets and antichrists who will appear throughout history. Others view it more specifically, as a reference to imminent anti-Christian forces present at the time John was writing. Another perspective sees the second beast as an allegory for the deceitful power of the state or false religion, which contrasts with the true and pure teachings of Christ. It brings forth the themes of discernment, the battle between true and false teachings, and the struggle between good and evil. In Christian eschatology, it embodies a warning of coming deception that masks itself as benign.

Practical Applications

The metaphor of a seemingly gentle figure with a malevolent voice serves as a caution to people of faith to be vigilant and discerning. This can apply to all areas of life where individuals may encounter entities or individuals who present themselves as trustworthy but harbor hidden motives. The verse can remind believers to critically assess the character and intentions behind the messages they receive, whether from religious, political, or social leaders. It also underscores the importance of aligning oneself with genuine teachings and values, and the dangers of being led astray by superficial appearances.

Cross-References

• Matthew 7:15: “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”
• Revelation 13:1: “And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.”
• Revelation 19:20: “And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image…”

Language Study

Key phrases in this verse and their original Greek language meanings include:

• “Another beast” (Θηρίον ἕτερον – therion heteron): “Beast” often signifies an oppressive, powerful entity. “Another” indicates a second, distinct beast in context.
• “Coming up out of the earth” (ἀναβαῖνον ἐκ τῆς γῆς): Indicates an origin contrasting the first beast, which comes from the sea, symbolizing a different source or nature of threat.
• “Two horns like a lamb” (δύο κέρατα ὅμοια ἀρνίῳ): Horns suggest power, and “like a lamb” implies a resemblance to gentleness or innocence.
• “Spake as a dragon” (ἐλάλει ὡς δράκων): Speaking “as a dragon” connotes deception, danger, and opposition to God, as the dragon is a common symbol for Satan in Revelation.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The motif of creatures with dual characteristics shows up in various cultural and religious texts, embodying the concept of deceptive appearances. For instance, in Greek mythology, creatures like the Sirens blend the allure of beauty and music with deadly intent. Within other religious traditions like Hinduism, gods may take on different forms, some benevolent and some fearsome, to fulfill specific purposes, some of which might include testing or teaching humanity.

Scientific Perspectives

While the scientific community generally does not interpret religious texts, the use of symbolic language taps into the human tendency to attribute meaning to metaphors and symbols. Understanding allegory requires complex cognitive capabilities, including abstract thinking, which is a subject studied in neuroscience and psychology. Moreover, the concept of beings with conflicting characteristics might be linked to the phenomena of mimicry and camouflage in the animal kingdom as survival strategies, which are well-studied aspects of evolutionary biology.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Revelation 13:11 offer a range of interpretations. Some scholars, like Matthew Henry, interpret the two horns as symbols of civil and ecclesiastical authority misused to support anti-Christian forces. Others, such as John Gill, read the verse as indicating the rise of a heretical church or false prophets within Christianity itself. Modern theologians might view it in light of contemporary issues, such as political or religious leaders who manipulate public perception. Collectively, these commentaries suggest that the verse contains a timeless warning regarding the disguise of malevolence as benevolence.