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Revelation 12:13

And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.

Revelation 12:13 · King James Version

Meaning

Revelation 12:13 describes a significant event in the end times where the dragon, symbolizing Satan, is cast down to earth and immediately sets out to persecute the woman who brought forth the man child. The woman in this verse can be interpreted as representing believers, the church, or even Israel. The man child is commonly understood as Jesus Christ. This verse captures the relentless pursuit of Satan against God's people, symbolized by the woman. This persecution highlights the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil, where Satan seeks to destroy those who align themselves with God. The verse serves as a reminder of the intense spiritual warfare that believers may face and the need to stand firm in faith against the attacks of the enemy. Ultimately, this verse points to the victory of Christ over Satan and the assurance of protection for those who remain faithful to Him.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of Revelation 12:13 is that it represents the ongoing battle between good and evil in the world. The dragon, often understood to be Satan, is furious after being cast down to earth, so he turns his attention to the woman who represents God's people. This persecution can be seen as a metaphor for the trials and tribulations that believers face as they navigate through a fallen world. The woman in this passage is often interpreted as the church, which is continuously under attack by the forces of darkness. This verse serves as a reminder that even in the midst of persecution, believers can find strength and hope in God's ultimate victory over evil.

Revelation 12:13 in other translations

American Standard Version

And when the dragon saw that he was cast down to the earth, he persecuted the woman that brought forth the man [child] .

World English Bible

When the dragon saw that he was thrown down to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male child.

Douay-Rheims

And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman who brought forth the man child.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And when the dragon sawe that hee was cast vnto the earth, he persecuted the woman which had brought forth the man childe.