New Testament
Revelation 13:2
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Revelation 13:2, the imagery of the beast combines features of different powerful animals: a leopard, a bear, and a lion.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
The beast looked like a leopard, but it had the feet of a bear and the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave this beast his power, his throne, and great authority.
And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 13:2, the imagery of the beast combines features of different powerful animals: a leopard, a bear, and a lion. This suggests a creature that embodies the strengths and ferocity of these animals, symbolizing a formidable and oppressive power. The dragon, representing Satan, grants this beast authority and power, indicating that it operates under evil influence. The beast's appearance and the source of its power highlight the danger it poses to humanity and the spiritual realm. This passage serves as a warning about the rise of oppressive regimes or forces that oppose God and His people, emphasizing the need for vigilance and discernment in the face of such threats. The imagery also reflects the chaotic and tumultuous nature of the end times, where evil seems to have significant control, but ultimately, it is a part of God's larger plan. Explore related prophecy.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 13:2 to your life
This verse encourages believers to remain alert to the influences of evil in the world. It reminds us to seek God's guidance and strength to resist oppressive forces that may arise. Staying grounded in faith is essential during challenging times.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 13:2 mean?
Revelation 13:2 describes a beast with features of a leopard, bear, and lion, symbolizing a powerful and oppressive force. The dragon, representing Satan, gives this beast authority, indicating it operates under evil influence.
What is the significance of the beast in Revelation 13:2?
The beast in Revelation 13:2 represents oppressive powers that oppose God and His people. Its mixed animal imagery suggests a combination of strength and ferocity, warning believers of the dangers posed by such forces.
What does the dragon represent in Revelation 13:2?
In Revelation 13:2, the dragon symbolizes Satan, who grants the beast its power and authority. This connection highlights the evil influence behind oppressive regimes and the spiritual battle faced by believers.
How does Revelation 13:2 relate to end times?
Revelation 13:2 reflects the chaotic nature of the end times, where evil appears to have significant control. It serves as a warning for believers to remain vigilant against oppressive forces that may arise.

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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