What does Revelation 17:11 mean?

And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition. Revelation 17:11

Explanation

Revelation 17:11 is a verse that contains prophetic and apocalyptic language, and it can be found in the New Testament book of Revelation, commonly attributed to John the Apostle. The verse is a part of the description of a mysterious beast that features prominently in the visions described in the book. The text refers to a beast that once existed, ceased to exist, and is yet to come. The beast that “is not” is nevertheless described as the eighth king, who is also “of the seven” and is destined for perdition (destruction or damnation).

The literal meaning suggests that there is a succession of rulers, and the eighth ruler, although seemingly distinct, is somehow connected to the seven before him. The deeper meaning, often deciphered by theologians, speaks to the nature of evil and its cyclical rise and fall throughout history. It is also thought to symbolize the perpetuating systems of oppressive power, with each incarnation being a continuation of the previous evils.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written during a time of intense persecution of the Christian community, likely around 95 A.D. during the reign of Emperor Domitian. The historical backdrop is the Roman Empire, with its succession of emperors, some of whom fiercely opposed Christianity. The book offered consolation to believers by assuring them of God’s ultimate victory over evil.

The imagery in Revelation was consistent with apocalyptic literature of the time, featuring symbolism and allegories used to convey hope and to communicate messages that could be understood by those familiar with the symbology while obscuring the meaning from authorities who might use it against the writers or readers.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints have sought to interpret the meaning of Revelation 17:11:

• Futurist Perspective: Some believe this verse predicts a future figure or antichrist, an individual who will manifest in history as a great deceiver.
• Preterist Perspective: Others argue that the verse referred to a historical figure relevant to the early Christians’ immediate context, possibly a Roman Emperor.
• Idealist (or Symbolic) Perspective: Some theologians consider the beast not as a specific person, but as a symbol of evil and human systems of oppression throughout history.
• Historicist Perspective: This approach sees the verse as representing a succession of historical events or entities that have affected the Christian church over the centuries.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can be interpreted practically as a warning against the allure of corrupt power and the influence of evil. Individuals can examine how power is used in their lives and society, challenging themselves to resist evil manifestations and systems that oppress and lead to destruction.

Cross-References

• Revelation 13:1-3: The beast is first described, revealing key aspects of its character and actions.
• Revelation 17:8-10: Further context for the beast in the same chapter, offering additional details about the seven kings and their kingdoms.
• Daniel 7:24: Prophecy concerning ten kings that arise, from which another will ascend, with parallels to Revelation’s beast.
• 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4: The “man of sin” or “son of perdition” is mentioned, echoing the themes of the antichrist and ultimate destruction.

Language Study

In the original Greek texts, key words such as:

• “Beast” (θηρίον – thērion), often used symbolically for oppressive rulers or governments.
• “Perdition” (ἀπώλεια – apōleia), referring to destruction, ruin, or loss, both physically and in a spiritual/moral sense.
• “Eighth” (ὀγδόος – ogdoos), indicating not only a sequence but also potential renewal or something beyond completion, as seven is a number associated with completeness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This verse echoes themes found in other ancient myths and religious texts, where symbolic beasts or monsters represent chaos or evil forces. Many cultures have myths of cyclical evil, where a negative force is defeated yet prophesied to return again, such as the Norse legend of Ragnarök.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse itself is eschatological and symbolic, modern scientific understandings of psychology and sociology can offer insights into the human tendencies of creating oppressive systems and the kind of personalities that might embody the “beast.” Studies into cults of personality or historical tyrants could offer a secular reflection of the themes present in this scripture.

commentaries

Diverse commentators have provided various interpretations of Revelation 17:11:

• Matthew Henry Commentary: Suggests the beast represents the rise and fall of political empires throughout history, particularly those opposed to Christianity.
• Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible: Ascribes the eighth to possibly an individual or form of government that comes after the fall of the seventh.
• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary: The eighth is seen as a resurrected form of one of the seven heads, possibly an indication of a revived Roman Empire in the future under new guise.