New Testament
Revelation 12:13
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the 'dragon' symbolizes Satan, who, after being cast down to earth, turns his wrath against the 'woman.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
When the dragon realized he had been thrown down to the earth, he persecuted the woman who had given birth to the male child.
And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the 'dragon' symbolizes Satan, who, after being cast down to earth, turns his wrath against the 'woman.' The woman represents God's people or the faithful community, and the 'male child' signifies Jesus Christ, who is destined to rule. The dragon's persecution reflects the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil. This verse highlights the reality of spiritual warfare, where the forces of darkness actively oppose God's plans and His people. The imagery of the dragon emphasizes the ferocity of this opposition, as he seeks to harm the woman who has given birth to the Savior. This moment serves as a reminder of the challenges believers face in their faith journey, as they may encounter trials and tribulations due to their allegiance to Christ. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of adversity, knowing that God is sovereign and will ultimately triumph over evil.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 12:13 to your life
As believers, we should be aware of the spiritual battles we face and remain steadfast in our faith. This verse encourages us to support one another in times of persecution and to trust in God's ultimate victory over evil. Prayer and community are vital in overcoming challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 12:13 mean?
Revelation 12:13 describes the dragon, symbolizing Satan, who, after being cast down to earth, begins to persecute the woman that represents God's people. This reflects the ongoing spiritual conflict between good and evil.
What is the significance of the dragon in Revelation 12:13?
In Revelation 12:13, the dragon represents Satan, illustrating his fierce opposition to God's plans and His people after being cast down to earth.
Who does the woman represent in Revelation 12:13?
The woman in Revelation 12:13 symbolizes God's faithful community or people, who are targeted by the dragon for persecution.
What does the male child refer to in Revelation 12:13?
The male child in Revelation 12:13 refers to Jesus Christ, who is destined to rule and is the focal point of the conflict between good and evil.

The Book of Revelation
Revelation 1: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
This is the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gives Him to show His servants things which must shortly come to pass, sent and signified by His angel to John, who bears record of the word of God. A blessing is pronounced upon those who read and hear the words of this prophecy and keep the things written therein, for the time is at hand. John writes to the seven churches in Asia, sending grace and peace from Him which is, and which was, and which is to come, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead, who washed us from our sins in His own blood. He declares Himself Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending. John, in the isle of Patmos for the word of God, is in the Spirit on the Lord's day and hears behind him a great voice as a trumpet. Turning, he sees seven golden candlesticks and one like the Son of man among them, clothed to the foot, His head and hairs white as wool, His eyes as a flame of fire, His feet like fine brass, His voice as the sound of many waters, seven stars in His right hand, and a sharp twoedged sword going out of His mouth. John falls at His feet as dead, and the Lord lays His right hand upon him, saying, Fear not, I am the first and the last, He that liveth and was dead and is alive for evermore. He reveals that the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven candlesticks are the seven churches.
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