Revelation 17:6
French (La Bible expliquée)
Je vis que cette femme était ivre du sang du peuple de Dieu, du sang de ceux qui ont été mis à mort à cause de leur fidélité à Jésus. Déconcerté par la séduction et la force de l'empire, Jean annonce la condamnation de Babylone (v. 1). La bête représente sans doute l'empire incarné en Néron. D'après une croyance populaire, Néron n'était pas mort, mais reviendrait se venger. La bête qui revendique les honneurs divins essaie de caricaturer Dieu (1.4) et le Christ (1.18). Elle remontera de l'abîme pour sa condamnation, tandis que l'Agneau viendra du ciel pour son triomphe. La bête est un huitième roi, peut-être Domitien, persécuteur des chrétiens, qui rappelle Néron. Les dix cornes seraient des rois qui, selon une légende populaire, viendraient détruire Rome sous la direction de Néron. En la voyant, je fus saisi d'un grand étonnement.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse from Revelation, the narrator sees a woman who has symbolically drunk the blood of saints and martyrs of Jesus, representing her role in their suffering and death. This image is shocking to the observer.
Explained for Children
Imagine you see someone at a party drinking pretend juice that looks like blood. That’s how scary this lady looked. She was pretending she drank all the good people's bravery, which made everyone scared but curious.
Historical Background
The book of Revelation was written by John around 96 AD during Roman persecution. This passage is part of a symbolic vision aimed at encouraging persecuted Christians to remain faithful despite suffering.
Living It Out Today
Today, this verse can remind us not to turn a blind eye to injustice or the oppression of good people. We should be concerned and take action when we see others being mistreated.
Topics
PersecutionSymbolismJusticeMartyrdomVisionary LiteratureEncouragement
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is speaking in this verse?
The speaker here is John, who records his vision from God.
What does 'drunken with blood' symbolize?
It symbolizes the woman's involvement in the suffering of saints and martyrs, suggesting her complicity or celebration of their deaths.
Why was this shocking to the observer?
Because it represents a vivid image of evil triumphing over good people who follow Jesus, which is disturbing and unexpected.
How should Christians apply this verse today?
Christians can be inspired by this verse to stand firm in their faith even when facing difficulties or persecution.