What does Revelation 17:12 mean?

And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast. Revelation 17:12

Explanation

Revelation 17:12 speaks of ten horns, which are identified as ten kings, that appear in John’s vision alongside the beast. In the Book of Revelation, these figures are often interpreted as symbols rather than literal entities. The horns are understood to represent kings, rulers, or powers that have not yet received a kingdom but will receive authority for a brief period (‘one hour’) alongside the beast. In the apocalyptic context, the beast generally symbolizes an oppressive, anti-God force, often interpreted as a political or religious system in opposition to Christian values. So, the kings or powers represented by the ten horns are aligned with this system and share in its temporary authority and ultimately in its judgment.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation, written by John while in exile on the island of Patmos, is a work of prophetic/apocalyptic literature that uses highly symbolic language. The historical context for John’s writing this could include the persecution of Christians by the Roman Empire, which may be represented allegorically by the beast and its supporting powers. The imagery in Revelation could also be reflecting Old Testament prophecies, such as those found in Daniel, where beasts and horns appear as symbols for empires and their rulers.

Theological Insights

Different theological interpretations arise from this verse. Preterist theologians might consider the ten horns to represent specific historical rulers aligning with Rome who were in power shortly before or during John’s time. Futurists may consider this prophecy as an end-times event that is yet to occur, with the ten kings symbolizing future world leaders or nations who will form a coalition. Historicists interpret these kings as successive governments or rulers throughout history that have opposed God’s truth. Lastly, idealists view these images as timeless symbols of evil political or spiritual forces opposing God throughout the church age.

Practical Applications

For individuals, the practical applications of Revelation 17:12 might include being watchful of worldly powers that oppose Christian teachings and values. It can serve as a reminder for Christians to discern the influences in their lives, whether political or cultural, that may align against their faith. On a broader scale, this can motivate believers to focus on the eternal kingdom of God rather than temporary, human-constructed powers that are destined to fall.

Cross-References

• Daniel 7:24: “And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise…”
• 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…”
• Revelation 17:16: “And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore…”

Language Study

The original Greek language of Revelation 17:12 provides insight into the verse’s meaning:

• “Horns” (κέρατα, kerata): Often used in Scripture as a symbol of power or authority.
• “Kings” (βασιλεῖς, basileis): Rulers or those with sovereign authority.
• “Received no kingdom as yet” (βασιλείαν οὔπω ἔλαβον, basileian oupo elabon): Literally not having received a kingdom yet, suggesting a future event or assumption of power.
• “One hour” (μίαν ὥραν, mian hōran): A short, definite period of time, emphasizing the brevity of their rule with the beast.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Ancient Near Eastern cultures often depicted gods and kings with symbolism involving animals or nature, indicating strength and dominion. Similarly, in Revelation, symbolism such as horns conveys the concept of authority. Religious comparisons might draw parallels to other apocalyptic texts from different faith traditions or to mythologies where creatures are used to represent deities or powers.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, this verse does not engage directly with any scientific concepts since it is primarily prophetic and symbolic in nature. Its language refers to political realities rather than measurable natural phenomena. However, the use of symbolism like “horns” could be analyzed from a psychological point of view, looking at how symbols are used to communicate complex ideas about power dynamics and collective fears or hopes.

Commentaries

Some biblical commentaries interpret the ten horns as historical rulers who were contemporaries of the Roman Empire, possibly senatorial proconsuls or client kings. Others view them as symbolic of future world leaders aligned against God. Matthew Henry’s Commentary suggests that these ten powers receive authority with the beast but are only short-lived. The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges hints at the possibility of these in the future, interpreting the one hour as a symbol of their brief and temporary nature. Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary also adds to the future prospects by saying that the fulfillment of this prophecy is still awaited and these ten kings have a transient agreement with the beast.