Revelation 17:5

Arabic KEH Ketab El Hayat (كتاب الحياة)

وَعَلَى جَبِينِهَا اسْمٌ مَكْتُوبٌ: سِرٌّ: «بَابِلُ الْعُظْمَى، أُمُّ زَانِيَاتِ الأَرْضِ وَأَصْنَامِهَا الْمَكْرُوهَةِ».

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes a woman with a name written on her forehead, 'Mystery Babylon the Great, Mother of Harlots and Abominations of the Earth.' It symbolizes a powerful force that leads people astray through false worship. This is John's vision in Revelation.

Explained for Children

Imagine there’s a big city named Mystery Babylon in this story. It’s like a really tricky game where everyone thinks they’re playing fairly, but it’s actually making them do bad things. The name on the forehead is like putting a label on something to show what it truly is.

Historical Background

John wrote Revelation around 95 AD while exiled on Patmos for his faith. He was addressing the early Christian communities who were facing persecution from Rome and tempted by various forms of worship and corruption.

Living It Out Today

This can remind us to be cautious about what we believe and follow, especially when it seems powerful or glamorous but might lead us away from God's truth. Like not getting caught up in a popular trend just because everyone else is doing it.

Topics

• worship
• truth
• corruption
• persecution
• symbols
• visionary

Related Verses

• Genesis 10:10
• Revelation 2:18-23
• Jeremiah 51:7
• Hosea 9:15
• Isaiah 47:1-5

Frequently Asked Questions

Who wrote Revelation and why?

John, one of Jesus' disciples, wrote it. He was trying to give hope and guidance to early Christians facing persecution.

What does 'Mystery Babylon the Great' refer to?

It symbolizes a powerful entity that leads people into false worship and corruption, like ancient Babylon’s influence in leading people astray.

How should modern Christians interpret this passage?

Christians today can use it as a warning against being misled by attractive but harmful practices or beliefs, staying true to God's teachings.

What does 'Mother of Harlots and Abominations' mean in Revelation 17:5?

It suggests that this entity fosters false worship and immorality. 'Harlots' symbolize spiritual infidelity, while 'abominations' refer to practices God considers evil.