Revelation 17:16
And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire.
Revelation 17:16 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Revelation, the ten horns on the beast represent ten leaders or kingdoms who will turn against the powerful city known as "the whore". This city symbolizes a place of immorality, corruption, and idolatry. The ten horns will join forces to bring destruction upon her, leaving her desolate and exposed. The act of eating her flesh and burning her with fire signifies a complete and utter destruction, signaling the downfall of this sinful city. This passage serves as a warning about the consequences of deviating from God's will and embracing wickedness. It highlights the ultimate judgment that awaits those who choose to rebel against God and indulge in sinful behaviors. Ultimately, this verse shows that God's wrath will be unleashed upon those who persist in their disobedience, leading to their ultimate demise.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the Book of Revelation, the ten horns on the beast symbolize the power and authority of the earthly kingdoms that align themselves with the beast, who represents the anti-Christ. The phrase "hate the whore" refers to the destruction of Babylon, the great harlot who represents a corrupt and idolatrous system opposed to God. The imagery of making her desolate and naked signifies the complete downfall and exposure of Babylon's wickedness. The phrase "eat her flesh" symbolizes the consumption of her wealth and resources, while "burn her with fire" points to the final judgment and destruction of Babylon. This verse serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and worshiping false idols. The theological interpretation of this passage highlights the themes of judgment, divine justice, and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over the forces of evil.
Revelation 17:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the ten horns which thou sawest, and the beast, these shall hate the harlot, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and shall burn her utterly with fire.
World English Bible
The ten horns which you saw, and the beast, these will hate the prostitute, and will make her desolate, and will make her naked, and will eat her flesh, and will burn her utterly with fire.
Douay-Rheims
And the ten horns which thou sawest in the beast: These shall hate the harlot and shall make her desolate and naked and shall eat her flesh and shall burn her with fire.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the tenne hornes which thou sawest vpon the beast, are they that shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eate her flesh, and burne her with fire.