New Testament
Revelation 13:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Revelation 13:17, it is stated that no one will be able to buy or sell anything unless they have a specific mark.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
No one could buy or sell anything unless they had the mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number of his name.
And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 13:17, it is stated that no one will be able to buy or sell anything unless they have a specific mark. This mark represents allegiance to the beast, a symbol of opposition to God. The verse highlights a future scenario where economic participation is tied to a person's loyalty to this beast, which is often interpreted as a system of control or oppression. The 'mark' can be understood as a sign of submission to worldly powers that stand against divine authority. The mention of the beast's name or number signifies the identity of this oppressive force. This passage serves as a warning about the dangers of compromising one's faith for material gain and emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast in belief, even in the face of societal pressure. Explore related spiritual.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 13:17 to your life
This verse encourages believers to remain vigilant about their values and choices, especially in a world that may pressure them to conform. It serves as a reminder to prioritize faith over material needs and to be aware of systems that may seek to undermine spiritual integrity.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does the mark of the beast represent in Revelation 13:17?
The mark of the beast in Revelation 13:17 symbolizes allegiance to the beast, which is often interpreted as a representation of oppressive systems or authorities that oppose God. It signifies a choice to submit to worldly powers rather than maintaining faith in divine authority. This mark is a critical element in the narrative of spiritual warfare, highlighting the conflict between faithfulness to God and the pressures of societal conformity.
How does Revelation 13:17 relate to modern economic systems?
Revelation 13:17 can be seen as a warning about how modern economic systems may demand loyalty or compliance that conflicts with one's faith. The verse suggests that there may come a time when economic participation is contingent upon compromising spiritual beliefs. This serves as a reminder for believers to critically evaluate the systems they engage with and to prioritize their faith over material gain, especially in environments that may challenge their spiritual integrity.
What should believers do in light of Revelation 13:17?
In light of Revelation 13:17, believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith and values, even when faced with societal pressures to conform. This verse serves as a call to prioritize spiritual integrity over material needs, urging individuals to be vigilant about the choices they make and the systems they support. It emphasizes the importance of discernment and the need to resist any form of economic or social pressure that compromises one's commitment to God.
Is the mark of the beast a literal mark?
The interpretation of the mark of the beast varies among scholars and theologians. Some view it as a literal mark that will be required for economic transactions in the future, while others see it as a metaphor for loyalty to a system or ideology that opposes God. Regardless of the interpretation, the underlying message remains the same: it serves as a warning against compromising one's faith for worldly gain and highlights the spiritual battle 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.
Unlock the full Revelation summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Revelation — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 22 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Revelation summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.