What does Revelation 13:18 mean?

Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six. Revelation 13:18

Explanation

Revelation 13:18 presents a cryptic challenge to its readers: to discern the number of the beast, which is described as the number of a man, and is specifically identified as 666. This verse appears in a passage describing a beast rising out of the sea, given power by a dragon, and worshiped by the people. The mention of the number is often interpreted as a code or symbol for a particular individual or represents a concept of evil associated with opposition to Christian beliefs.

In seeking the literal meaning, 666 is presented as an identifying mark of the beast, which is necessary for buying and selling, highlighting a control over economic transactions. Deeper interpretations suggest that the number symbolizes imperfection or incompleteness (as seven is traditionally associated with perfection), or that it signifies a specific historical figure, potentially through gematria, where letters are given numerical values.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation, also called the Apocalypse, was written in the late first century AD, traditionally by John of Patmos. It came at a time when Christians faced persecution from the Roman Empire, which is believed by many scholars to be the backdrop for the vivid and symbolic narratives within Revelation. The use of the number 666, therefore, might have been a coded message to avoid direct reference to political figures or entities, such as an emperor or the imperial cult, that were seen as antithetical to Christian principles.

Theological Insights

The theological perspectives on this verse vary widely among different Christian denominations. Some view it as a prophecy regarding a future Antichrist figure who will deceive many. Others interpret it as a symbol of human imperfection or a representation of secular authority that conflicts with divine authority. Some also consider it as a historical reference, perhaps to a Roman emperor like Nero, whose name in Hebrew numerology adds up to 666.

Practical Applications

The teachings of Revelation 13:18, particularly the number of the beast, may act as a warning against idolatry and misplaced allegiance. It could be applied to encourage discernment in spiritual matters and a focus on spiritual integrity rather than material or political power. The caution against the “mark of the beast” emphasizes vigilance for the Christian to remain true to their faith, even in the face of societal pressures.

Cross-References

• Revelation 14:9: “And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand,”
• Revelation 15:2: “And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.”
• Revelation 20:4: “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the number 666 is written as χξς (chi xi stigma). This number has been the focus of much attention and speculation as to its meaning and why it is written using these particular Greek letters.

• χ (chi) equals 600,
• ξ (xi) equals 60, and
• ς (stigma, or sometimes also represented as στ, sigma tau), equals 6.

The use of letters to denote numbers was common in ancient times, and this particular combination has led to various attempts to decode a deeper significance, often through the practice of gematria.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparable examples are found in various ancient cultures which used numerical systems for mystical or symbolic purposes. For instance, Babylonian, Greek, and Hebrew societies attributed special meanings to certain numbers. In other religious traditions, numerical codes were also used to convey secret or sacred messages. The use of numbers as symbols for deeper meanings is a widespread phenomenon not limited to the Biblical context.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientifical perspective, there is no inherent meaning to the number 666 beyond what humans attribute to it. Numerology, as a belief that numbers have a direct mystical relationship with events or things, does not align with the empirical nature of the scientific method. However, the psychological impact of the number, also known as hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia (fear of the number 666), can be a subject of scientific inquiry in fields like psychology and sociology.

Commentaries

Bible scholars and theologians have proposed various interpretations of Revelation 13:18. Some suggest that John of Patmos was referring to a contemporary figure, often proposing Emperor Nero as the beast, due to the numerical value of his name matching 666 when transliterated into Hebrew. Other commentaries focus on the symbolic nature of the beast, identifying it with various anti-Christian political systems and leaders throughout history. Modern scholars often approach the verse as an example of apocalyptic literature that reflects the concerns and struggles of early Christian communities.