New Testament

Revelation 17:10

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Revelation 17:10, the verse discusses a sequence of seven kings, indicating a timeline of leadership or authority.

Author
John the apostle
Written
Around AD 95
Genre
Apocalyptic prophecy
Original Audience
The seven churches of Asia Minor
CBTClear Bible Translation

There are seven kings: five have fallen, one is present, and the other has not yet come; and when he comes, he must remain for a short time.

KJVKing James Version

And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Revelation 17:10, the verse discusses a sequence of seven kings, indicating a timeline of leadership or authority. Five of these kings have already fallen, suggesting they are no longer in power. The sixth king is currently reigning, while the seventh king is yet to arrive. This seventh king will have a brief period of rule. The imagery of kings symbolizes various empires or rulers throughout history, reflecting the transient nature of power and authority. The mention of the kings serves to highlight the ongoing struggle between good and evil, as well as the ultimate sovereignty of God over human history. This passage encourages readers to understand the significance of these rulers in the context of God's plan and the eventual establishment of His kingdom. It also serves as a reminder that earthly powers are temporary and that believers should focus on the eternal kingdom of God.

How to apply Revelation 17:10 to your life

This verse reminds us that earthly authorities are temporary and subject to change. As we navigate our lives, we should focus on God's eternal kingdom rather than getting too attached to worldly powers. Trust in God's ultimate plan and remain steadfast in faith, knowing that He is in control.

Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Revelation 17:10 mean?

Revelation 17:10 describes a sequence of seven kings, indicating that five have fallen, one is currently ruling, and one is yet to come. This verse symbolizes the temporary nature of earthly power and the ongoing struggle between good and evil.

What is the significance of the seven kings in Revelation 17:10?

The seven kings in Revelation 17:10 represent different empires or rulers throughout history, illustrating the transient nature of authority. This highlights God's ultimate control over human history and the eventual establishment of His kingdom.

Who are the kings mentioned in Revelation 17:10?

The kings in Revelation 17:10 are often interpreted as historical rulers or empires that have influenced the world. The verse emphasizes that five have fallen, one is currently in power, and one will come briefly, reflecting the changing nature of leadership.

What does 'he must remain for a short time' mean in Revelation 17:10?

The phrase 'he must remain for a short time' refers to the seventh king, indicating that his reign will be brief. This suggests that even the most powerful rulers will eventually pass, reinforcing the idea of the temporary nature of earthly authority.

The Book of Revelation
Book Summary

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.

Premium

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

Best value • Save over 90%

or

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.