Revelation 13:14
Arabic KEH Ketab El Hayat (كتاب الحياة)
فَخَدَعَ سُكَّانَ الأَرْضِ بِالآيَاتِ الَّتِي كَانَ يَقُومُ بِهَا فِي حُضُورِ الْوَحْشِ الأَوَّلِ. وَأَمَرَ سُكَّانَ الأَرْضِ أَنْ يُقِيمُوا تِمْثَالاً لِلْوَحْشِ الأَوَّلِ الَّذِي كَانَ قَدْ جُرِحَ جُرْحاً مُمِيتاً وَلَكِنَّهُ عَاشَ!
What Does This Mean?
This verse describes a situation where someone deceives people on Earth by performing miracles in the presence of a powerful figure known as 'the beast.' The deception involves convincing people to create an image or idol of this beast, despite it having been wounded and coming back to life.
Explained for Children
Imagine if a magician came and did amazing tricks for everyone. Everyone was so amazed that they wanted to make a statue of the magician even though he had a big cut before but seemed fine now. The verse is saying people are tricked into doing this because of how good the magician's tricks seem.
Historical Background
The book of Revelation was written by John, an apostle, around 96 AD to encourage and strengthen Christians during times of persecution. The audience was primarily early Christians living in Asia Minor who faced threats from Roman rulers seen as 'beasts.'
Living It Out Today
Today, this verse can remind us about the power of influence and deception. Just like how people were tricked by miracles into making an image of a beast, we must be cautious with influencers or leaders who might seem to perform great feats but have questionable motives.
Topics
deceptionmiraclesworshipleadershipwarningpersecution
Related Verses
Exodus 20:4-5Deuteronomy 4:16-19Acts 8:9-132 Thessalonians 2:9-10Revelation 19:20
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is 'he' that deceives people?
'He' refers to a powerful figure, often associated with the false prophet, who supports and amplifies the authority of the beast through miraculous acts.
What does it mean by an image of the beast?
An 'image' here symbolizes worship or idolatry directed towards the beast. It suggests that people are encouraged to give reverence or loyalty to this figure as if it were a deity.
Why is there emphasis on the wound and life of the beast?
The mention of the beast's wound highlights its resilience, suggesting an extraordinary nature that could lead people to believe in false miracles and ultimately deceive them into worshiping something or someone they shouldn't.
How does this relate to modern-day deceivers?
This verse serves as a warning against those who use impressive feats or charisma to gain undue influence. It encourages critical thinking and discernment in following any leader or ideology, especially when it contradicts faith principles.