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Revelation 17:12

And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast.

Revelation 17:12 · King James Version

Meaning

Revelation 17:12 describes the ten horns as ten kings who have not yet received their kingdoms but will have authority for a short time along with the beast. This verse is symbolic in nature, representing a powerful alliance or coalition that will emerge in the end times. The ten kings may represent political leaders or rulers who align themselves with the Antichrist, the beast mentioned in the verse, to carry out his agenda. The fact that they have not yet received their kingdoms suggests that their rise to power will happen suddenly and that their rule will be short-lived. This coalition will work together with the beast to exert authority and influence over the world during a period of great turmoil and tribulation. This verse serves as a warning to readers about the deceptive nature of worldly power and the importance of remaining faithful to God in the face of evil.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Revelation, the mention of "ten horns" symbolizes ten kings who will have authority for a short time alongside the beast, representing a powerful political force working in unity with the Antichrist. The use of the number ten in the Bible often signifies completeness or fullness, indicating that these rulers are a significant and complete group in the end times. The fact that they have not yet received their kingdoms suggests that this alliance of rulers will rise to power suddenly and swiftly. The short duration, described as "one hour", could symbolize a brief but intense period of control and influence these rulers will have in alignment with the beast. This verse serves as a warning of the rise of political powers that will ultimately oppose God's kingdom, showcasing the deception that will be present in the end times and emphasizing the importance of remaining steadfast in our faith.

Revelation 17:12 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the ten horns that thou sawest are ten kings, who have received no kingdom as yet; but they receive authority as kings, with the beast, for one hour.

World English Bible

The ten horns that you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority as kings, with the beast, for one hour.

Douay-Rheims

And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, who have not yet received a kingdom: but shall receive power as kings, one hour after the beast.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And the tenne hornes which thou sawest, are tenne Kings, which yet haue not receiued a kingdome, but shall receiue power, as Kings at one houre with the beast.