Revelation 13:2
Arabic SAB (الكتاب الشريف)
وَهَذَا الْوَحْشُ الَّذِي رَأَيْتُهُ يُشْبِهُ النِّمْرَ، لَكِنْ لَهُ أَرْجُلٌ كَأَرْجُلِ الدُّبِّ، وَفَمٌ كَفَمِ الْأَسَدِ. وَأَعْطَاهُ التِّنِّينُ قُدْرَتَهُ وَعَرْشَهُ وَسُلْطَةً عَظِيمَةً.
What Does This Mean?
This verse describes a terrifying beast that John sees in his vision. The beast is made up of parts from different animals, symbolizing its power and ferocity. It receives authority from the dragon, which represents Satan.
Explained for Children
Imagine you see a scary monster in your dream. This monster looks like it has a leopard's body, bear's feet, and a lion's mouth. The monster is very powerful because a big evil dragon gives him all this power!
Historical Background
The Book of Revelation was written by John the Apostle around 96 AD to encourage Christians facing persecution under Roman rule. This beast symbolizes earthly rulers who oppose God.
Living It Out Today
When you face someone in authority who tries to force you to do something against your beliefs, remember that no matter how powerful they seem, their power comes from evil and not the true source of strength: God.
Topics
evilpersecutionauthoritypowerfaithend times
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why are different animals used to describe the beast?
The use of different animal parts emphasizes the beast's terrifying and unnatural power. Each part symbolizes a specific aspect of its strength and ferocity.
What does the dragon represent in this verse?
The dragon represents Satan, who gives power to the beast. This shows that all earthly authority opposed to God has an evil source.
How should Christians interpret Revelation 13:2 today?
Christians can see in this verse a reminder that while evil may seem powerful, its strength is borrowed and temporary. Faithful standing remains in God's ultimate authority.
What does the beast symbolize for modern readers?
The beast often symbolizes earthly rulers or systems that try to dominate and control people against their will, opposing divine authority and moral values.