New Testament
Revelation 18:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For all nations have drunk the wine of the wrath of her immorality, and the kings of the earth have committed immorality with her, and the merchants of the earth have grown rich from the abundance of her luxuries.
Compare translations
For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.
What Revelation 18:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse describes the widespread influence of a corrupt system, often interpreted as a representation of Babylon, which symbolizes moral decay and materialism. The 'wine of the wrath' signifies the intoxicating allure of sin that has captivated nations and leaders. The kings engaging in immorality with her suggest a betrayal of their responsibilities, prioritizing wealth and power over righteousness. Merchants profiting from her luxuries highlight the economic exploitation tied to this moral compromise. The imagery of drunkenness illustrates how deeply these nations are ensnared in this system, leading to spiritual and ethical blindness. Overall, the verse warns of the consequences of indulging in such corruption, emphasizing the interconnectedness of political, economic, and moral failures in society.
How to apply Revelation 18:3 to your life
This verse serves as a reminder to evaluate our own lives and the systems we support. We should be cautious of the allure of wealth and luxury that can lead us away from moral integrity. Prioritizing ethical choices over material gain is essential for spiritual health.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Andrew Brings Simon to Jesus (John 1:40–42)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Revelation 18:3
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Revelation 18:3
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Revelation
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 18:3 mean?
Revelation 18:3 describes the influence of a corrupt system, often seen as Babylon, symbolizing moral decay and materialism. It highlights how nations and leaders are seduced by wealth and luxury, leading to spiritual blindness and ethical failures.
What is the meaning of 'the wine of the wrath' in Revelation 18:3?
'The wine of the wrath' refers to the intoxicating allure of sin and corruption that captivates nations and leaders. It signifies the consequences of indulging in immoral practices and the resulting spiritual and ethical decline.
How does Revelation 18:3 relate to modern society?
Revelation 18:3 can be seen as a cautionary tale for modern society, urging individuals to be wary of the temptations of wealth and luxury that can lead to moral compromise. It encourages a focus on ethical choices rather than material gain.
What themes are present in Revelation 18:3?
Key themes in Revelation 18:3 include corruption, materialism, moral decay, economic exploitation, spiritual blindness, and the betrayal of leadership. These themes highlight the consequences of prioritizing wealth and power over integrity.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.