King James Version

What Does Revelation 12:13 Mean?

Revelation 12:13 in the King James Version says “And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.”

Revelation 12:13 · KJV

Context

11

And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

12

Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

13

And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.

14

And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time , and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.

15

And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood.

Read Revelation 12 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.... This verse from Revelation's vision of woman, child, and dragon - cosmic conflict, satan's defeat, messiah's victory employs apocalyptic imagery rich with Old Testament allusions and symbolic meaning. The Greek text uses vivid apocalyptic language characteristic of Jewish prophetic literature, drawing heavily from Daniel, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Zechariah.

The symbolism must be interpreted within its first-century context while recognizing timeless spiritual realities. The imagery would resonate powerfully with persecuted believers facing Roman imperial cult worship, providing hope that despite present suffering, Christ reigns sovereign and will consummate His kingdom. The apocalyptic genre uses symbolic numbers (seven, twelve, 144,000), colors, beasts, and cosmic imagery to convey theological truth rather than photographic descriptions.

Christologically, Revelation consistently exalts Jesus as the victorious Lamb, the faithful witness, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Every vision ultimately points to Christ's supremacy, His finished redemptive work, and His certain return to judge the living and dead and establish the new creation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

John received this revelation circa AD 95 during Domitian's persecution, exiled on Patmos for his testimony. The seven churches of Asia Minor faced increasing pressure to participate in emperor worship and pagan religious practices. Refusal meant economic hardship, social ostracism, and potential martyrdom. Understanding this context illuminates Revelation's encouragement to faithful endurance.

The apocalyptic genre was familiar to first-century Jewish and Christian readers. Rather than newspaper-style predictions, apocalyptic literature uses symbolic imagery to reveal spiritual realities behind earthly events, encourage the faithful, warn the unfaithful, and assert God's ultimate sovereignty over history. Parallels with Daniel, Ezekiel, and intertestamental apocalyptic writings would help original readers decode the symbols.

Rome's imperial cult demanded worship of Caesar as divine, placing Christians in impossible situations—compromise their faith or face persecution. Revelation identifies Rome as "Babylon" and assures believers that despite appearances, the Lamb conquered through His death and resurrection, and all earthly kingdoms will submit to His reign.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Revelation 12:13 reveal God's character, particularly His sovereignty, holiness, and justice?
  2. What specific encouragement or warning does this verse offer for maintaining faithful Christian witness amid cultural pressure?
  3. How does this passage point to Christ's victory and the hope of new creation, and how should that shape your present priorities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 17 words
Καὶ1 of 17

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ὅτε2 of 17

“when”

G3753

at which (thing) too, i.e., when

εἶδεν3 of 17

“saw”

G1492

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

ὁ4 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δράκων5 of 17

“the dragon”

G1404

a fabulous kind of serpent (perhaps as supposed to fascinate)

ὅτι6 of 17

“that”

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ἐβλήθη7 of 17

“he was cast”

G906

to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense)

εἰς8 of 17

“unto”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὴν9 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

γῆν10 of 17

“the earth”

G1093

soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)

ἐδίωξεν11 of 17

“he persecuted”

G1377

compare the base of g1169 and g1249); to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute

τὴν12 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

γυναῖκα13 of 17

“the woman”

G1135

a woman; specially, a wife

ἥτις14 of 17

“which”

G3748

which some, i.e., any that; also (definite) which same

ἔτεκεν15 of 17

“brought forth”

G5088

to produce (from seed, as a mother, a plant, the earth, etc.), literally or figuratively

τὸν16 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἄῤῥενα17 of 17

“the man”

G730

male (as stronger for lifting)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Revelation. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Revelation 12:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Revelation 12:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Genesis 3:15John 16:33Revelation 12:3-5Psalms 37:12-14

Test Your Knowledge

Revelation 12 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterRevelation Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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