New Testament
Revelation 17:4
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Revelation 17:4, the imagery of a woman dressed in luxurious colors and adorned with precious materials symbolizes a powerful and corrupt entity, often interpreted as a representation of false religion or a corrupt political system.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold, precious stones, and pearls. She held a golden cup in her hand, filled with abominations and the filthiness of her fornication.
And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 17:4, the imagery of a woman dressed in luxurious colors and adorned with precious materials symbolizes a powerful and corrupt entity, often interpreted as a representation of false religion or a corrupt political system. The purple and scarlet colors signify royalty and wealth, while the gold, precious stones, and pearls highlight her opulence. However, despite her outward beauty, she holds a golden cup filled with abominations and filthiness, indicating that her true nature is corrupt and sinful. This contrast serves to warn believers about the dangers of being seduced by appearances and the allure of worldly power and wealth, which can lead to spiritual decay and moral compromise. The passage invites readers to discern the true nature of such entities and to remain steadfast in their faith, avoiding the temptations that come from such seductive influences. Explore related corruption.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 17:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to be cautious of the allure of wealth and power, which can lead us away from our faith. We should focus on inner purity and spiritual integrity rather than being swayed by external appearances. Staying grounded in our beliefs helps us resist temptation.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 17:4 mean?
Revelation 17:4 describes a woman dressed in luxurious colors and adorned with precious materials, symbolizing a corrupt entity, often interpreted as false religion or a corrupt political system. The verse contrasts her outward beauty with the abominations in her cup, warning believers about the dangers of being seduced by appearances.
What is the significance of the colors purple and scarlet in Revelation 17:4?
In Revelation 17:4, the colors purple and scarlet signify royalty and wealth, representing the power and influence of the corrupt entity. These colors highlight the allure of materialism and the seductive nature of false authority.
What does the golden cup represent in Revelation 17:4?
The golden cup in Revelation 17:4 represents the corrupt and sinful nature of the entity, filled with abominations and filthiness. It symbolizes the deceptive allure of worldly power that can lead to spiritual decay.
How does Revelation 17:4 relate to the theme of corruption?
Revelation 17:4 illustrates the theme of corruption by depicting a beautiful woman who embodies false religion or corrupt authority, highlighting how outward appearances can mask inner moral decay and abomination.
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