New Testament

Revelation 17:5

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

At a Glance

In Revelation 17:5, a woman is depicted with a name written on her forehead, which reads "MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

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

Written across her forehead was a name: MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

KJVKing James Version

And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Revelation 17:5, a woman is depicted with a name written on her forehead, which reads "MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH." This imagery symbolizes a powerful and corrupt system that opposes God and leads people away from true worship. Babylon represents not just a city but a broader concept of moral and spiritual decay, often associated with idolatry and immorality. The term "mother of prostitutes" suggests that this system gives rise to various forms of false worship and corruption. The use of the word "mystery" indicates that there are deeper, hidden meanings behind this figure, which may not be immediately apparent. This verse serves as a warning about the dangers of being entangled in worldly systems that promote sin and rebellion against God, urging believers to remain vigilant and faithful to their calling.

How to apply Revelation 17:5 to your life

This verse encourages us to examine our lives for any influences that may lead us away from God. We should be cautious of societal norms that promote immorality and idolatry. Staying grounded in faith and seeking truth is essential to avoid being misled by corrupt systems.

Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Revelation 17:5 mean?

Revelation 17:5 describes a woman with the name 'MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT' written on her forehead, symbolizing a corrupt system that opposes God. This verse highlights the dangers of false worship and moral decay.

What is the meaning of 'Babylon the Great' in Revelation 17:5?

'Babylon the Great' represents a powerful and corrupt entity that leads people away from true worship and into idolatry. It signifies a broader concept of spiritual and moral corruption.

What does 'mother of prostitutes' mean in Revelation 17:5?

The phrase 'mother of prostitutes' indicates that this corrupt system gives rise to various forms of false worship and immorality. It suggests that it is a source of spiritual decay.

What is the warning in Revelation 17:5?

Revelation 17:5 serves as a warning to be vigilant against worldly influences that promote sin and rebellion against God. It encourages believers to stay true to their faith.

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.

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