New Testament
Revelation 17:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, an angel addresses John, who is astonished by the vision he has seen.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
The angel said to me, "Why are you so amazed? I will explain the mystery of the woman and the beast she rides — the one with seven heads and ten horns."
And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, an angel addresses John, who is astonished by the vision he has seen. The angel questions John's amazement and promises to reveal the meaning behind the mysterious woman and the beast she rides. This beast is described as having seven heads and ten horns, which symbolizes power and authority. The imagery of the woman and the beast is significant in the context of Revelation, representing the corrupting influence of false religion and political power. The angel's role is to clarify these complex symbols, indicating that understanding these visions is crucial for grasping the larger narrative of God's judgment and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. This moment sets the stage for deeper revelations about the nature of evil and the fate of those who oppose God. Explore related divine.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 17:7 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek understanding in our spiritual journeys. When faced with confusion or amazement about faith, we should turn to God and His Word for clarity. Engaging with scripture can help us discern truth from deception in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 17:7 mean?
Revelation 17:7 features an angel explaining to John the meaning behind a mysterious woman and the beast she rides, which has seven heads and ten horns. This imagery symbolizes power and authority, representing the corrupting influence of false religion and political power.
What is the significance of the woman and the beast in Revelation 17:7?
The woman and the beast in Revelation 17:7 symbolize the interplay of false religion and political authority. The seven heads and ten horns illustrate the extent of their power and the dangers of being misled by such influences.
What does the angel promise in Revelation 17:7?
In Revelation 17:7, the angel promises to explain the mystery of the woman and the beast, indicating that understanding these symbols is essential for grasping the broader themes of judgment and the conflict between good and evil.
Why does John marvel in Revelation 17:7?
John marvels in Revelation 17:7 due to the shocking and complex vision he has seen, which includes the woman and the beast. His amazement reflects the overwhelming nature of the revelations he is receiving.

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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