What does Revelation 17:1 mean?

And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters: Revelation 17:1

Explanation

Revelation 17:1 is a verse from the New Testament of the Christian Bible, belonging to the book of Revelation, which is attributed to John the Apostle. This verse sets the stage for a vision concerning the judgment of the “great whore,” which is a symbolic representation of a corrupt entity. The “seven angels which had the seven vials” are the executors of God’s final judgment upon the earth and represent completion or wholeness of God’s plan as the number seven often implies in biblical terms. The “great whore” is depicted as sitting “upon many waters,” which symbolically suggests her influence and power extending over many peoples, nations, and tongues. This image begins a narrative describing the nature and fate of a corrupt, seductive power misleading the masses.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation, also known as the Apocalypse, was written in the context of Christian persecution under the Roman Empire. Revelation was likely composed toward the end of the 1st century AD. The language and imagery used in the book are highly symbolic and often reflect the struggles and hopes of early Christians. The “great whore” is commonly interpreted as a symbol for Rome, known in ancient times for its excesses and idolatry, seen as a contrast to the purity and fidelity expected by God from people.

Theological Insights

Various theological interpretations exist regarding this verse. For many, the “great whore” symbolizes systemic, institutionalized evil, frequently interpreted as a religious system or political entity that opposes God’s laws. In Protestant theology, some reformers interpreted the “great whore” as representing the corruption they perceived within the Catholic Church. In Catholic and Orthodox interpretations, it can signify any system that leads people away from the true faith and godly living. There’s also an eschatological viewpoint that sees this “whore” as a future entity or coalition of entities that will emerge before the end times.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can serve as a warning against aligning oneself with corrupt systems or powers that lead away from spiritual integrity. It can inspire individuals to evaluate the influences in their lives and choose associations that honor moral and ethical values. It also calls for discernment, encouraging believers to recognize and resist the seductions of power, wealth, and false ideologies that are in opposition to godly principles.

Cross-References

• Revelation 17:15 – “And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.”
• Revelation 16:19 – “And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath.”
• Revelation 18:2 – “And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.”

Language Study

The term “great whore” in Greek is “η πόρνη η μεγάλη” (“hē pornē hē megalē”), where “pornē” can mean harlot, prostitute, or adulteress. This term is used metaphorically in the book of Revelation to describe an entity characterized by idolatrous and blasphemous behavior. The term “whore” carries not just a sense of sexual immorality but also betrayal or unfaithfulness to God, suggesting a deeper spiritual infidelity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The imagery of a “whore” or unfaithful woman is a recurring theme across various religious and cultural narratives to symbolize corruption and immoral influence. In ancient Near Eastern texts, cities like Babylon and Nineveh are often personified as wayward women to highlight their moral decline. Similar concepts are found in Hinduism, where certain figures may represent spiritual corruption, and in Greek mythology, entities like Circe or the Sirens could be seen as alluring yet destructive forces that divert the hero from his course.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific understandings do not directly intersect with the symbolic visions of Revelation 17:1. However, scientific disciplines like psychology and sociology may provide insights into how power and influence can have corrupting effects on societies and individuals. The verse’s reference to seductive and immoral forces can be seen as a reflection of the human tendency to succumb to corrupting influences, which can be studied and understood through behavioral sciences.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars have interpreted Revelation 17:1 through various lenses. Some, like Matthew Henry, have emphasized the verse’s foretelling of divine retribution against corrupt powers. Others such as Craig S. Keener or G. K. Beale have delved into the symbolism, pointing out the connections to Old Testament imagery and the socio-political climate of the Roman Empire. Scholars also discuss how the imagery of the “great whore” serves to contrast the pure and faithful “bride of Christ,” representing the church, and highlight the call for Christians to remain faithful amidst a corrupt world.