King James Version

What Does Revelation 17:13 Mean?

Revelation 17:13 in the King James Version says “These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 17 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.”

Revelation 17:13 · KJV

Strength

Context

11

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

12

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.

13

These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.

14

These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.

15

And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.

Read Revelation 17 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.... This verse from Revelation's vision of babylon the harlot - false religion, political-religious alliance judged 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 17:13 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 · 14 words
οὗτοι1 of 14

“These”

G3778

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

μίαν2 of 14
G1520

one

γνώμην3 of 14

“mind”

G1106

cognition, i.e., (subjectively) opinion, or (objectively) resolve (counsel, consent, etc.)

ἔχουσιν4 of 14

“have”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

καὶ5 of 14

“and”

G2532

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

τὴν6 of 14
G3588

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

δύναμιν7 of 14

“power”

G1411

force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)

καὶ8 of 14

“and”

G2532

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

τὴν9 of 14
G3588

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

ἐξουσίαν10 of 14

“strength”

G1849

privilege, i.e., (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery (concretely, magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token o

ἑαυτῶν11 of 14

“their”

G1438

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

τῷ12 of 14
G3588

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

θηρίῳ13 of 14

“unto the beast”

G2342

a dangerous animal

διαδιδώσουσιν14 of 14

“shall give”

G1239

to give throughout a crowd, i.e., deal out; also to deliver over (as to a successor)

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 17:13 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 17:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Revelation 17:17Ezekiel 38:10Isaiah 10:5-7Philippians 2:2Philippians 1:27Acts 4:28

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