What does Revelation 13:4 mean?
And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him? Revelation 13:4
Explanation
Revelation 13:4 speaks about the worship of the dragon and the beast by the people of the world. The dragon is typically identified as Satan, and the beast is commonly interpreted as a symbol of oppressive worldly power, perhaps a government or political system that exerts control over people. This verse shows that the dragon gives authority to the beast, and as a result, people marvel at the beast’s might and power, raising the question of who could possibly stand against it. The worship mentioned here suggests not only a religious veneration but also an admiration and allegiance to the power that the dragon represents and the beast exercises.
Historical Context
Revelation was written by the apostle John while he was exiled on the island of Patmos, likely during the reign of the Roman Emperor Domitian (81-96 AD). The early Christians faced intense persecution, and Revelation contains prophetic visions that offered hope and encouraged steadfastness among believers. In this historical setting, Rome itself could have been seen as the beast, with the Emperor as its head, and the Roman pantheon and Emperor cult could be seen as the ‘dragon’ providing authority.
Theological Insights
Within Christian theology, there are varying interpretations of Revelation 13:4. The Futurist view sees this prophecy as yet to be fulfilled, speaking of a future world leader and system. The Historicist view assumes that this has been partially fulfilled throughout history, with oppressive governments and leaders exemplifying the beast. The Idealist view interprets this symbolically, suggesting it represents the ongoing struggle between good and evil. The Preterist view looks at the verse as referring to events that were soon to take place in those times, like the struggle with the Roman Empire.
Practical Applications
Revelation 13:4 serves as a warning against idolatry and the temptation to worship worldly power. It reminds believers to place their trust and faith in God rather than in human institutions or leaders. This has practical implications for how Christians engage with politics, power structures, and society in general, advocating for a display of allegiance first and foremost to God’s kingdom values.
Cross-References
- Revelation 12:9: “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 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 13:8: “And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.”
Language Study
In the original Greek text, the term “worshipped” is translated from the Greek “προσκυνέω” (proskyneo), which means to bow or prostrate oneself, indicating an act of reverence or homage. The term “who is like unto” reflects a challenge or rhetorical question, emphasizing the perceived invincibility of the beast. This emphasizes the idea that the beast was viewed as unique in power and invincible in battle.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
The worship of a dragon and a beast may draw some parallels to ancient mythology, where dragons and monstrous creatures were often revered and feared. In some cultures, dragons represented wisdom and power and were deified. The concept of an all-powerful entity challenging the gods can also be seen in myths, like the story of the Titans in Greek mythology.
Scientific Perspectives
The scientific community generally does not engage with the supernatural elements described in Revelation. However, scholars and psychologists might study the phenomena of how societal power structures and leaders can garner a cult-like following, where supporters may display unwavering trust and devotion akin to worship.
commentaries
Commentators offer a range of insights on Revelation 13:4. Many agree that it depicts a false system of worship inspired by Satan. Matthew Henry’s commentary suggests that the admiration for the beast signifies mankind’s tendency to idolize temporal powers. John Wesley notes the people’s astonishment leading to the beast’s worship. Modern scholars, such as Craig Koester in his “Revelation and the End of All Things,” may reflect on the passage in light of contemporary global concerns related to unchecked power and the seduction of political charisma.
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