Commentary

What does Revelation 13:2 mean?

“And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.” — Revelation 13:2

Commentary Devotional Prayer

Revelation 13:2 in the King James Version of the Bible states: "And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority."

This verse is part of the book of Revelation, which is the final book of the New Testament and is filled with vivid and often apocalyptic imagery. The book is attributed to John the Apostle and is believed by many Christians to have been written during a time of intense persecution of the early Christian community. The book of Revelation is known for its prophecies of the end times, the return of Jesus Christ, and the final judgment.

In this particular verse, the description of the beast draws on imagery from the Old Testament and other ancient sources. The images of a leopard, bear, and lion are reminiscent of the beasts described in the book of Daniel, particularly in Daniel 7:1-8. In Daniel's vision, these animals represent powerful empires that will rise and fall throughout history.

The reference to the dragon giving the beast his power, seat, and great authority also harkens back to earlier passages in the book of Revelation. The dragon is often associated with Satan or the devil, and in this verse, it is giving its authority to the beast. This emphasizes the idea that the beast is a symbol of a powerful ruler or empire that is aligned with the forces of evil.

The imagery in this verse is rich with symbolism and has been interpreted in a variety of ways throughout history. Some interpretations see the beast as a representation of specific historical figures or empires, while others view it as a more general symbol of the forces of evil and persecution that have existed throughout history.

One common interpretation of this verse is that it is a warning about the dangers of oppressive and tyrannical rulers. The comparison of the beast to the powerful and fearsome animals of a leopard, bear, and lion suggests that the ruler or empire it represents will be cruel and destructive. The fact that the beast receives its power from the dragon further emphasizes the idea that it is aligned with evil forces.

Another possible interpretation of this verse is that it serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle between good and evil. The beast, in this interpretation, represents the forces of darkness and oppression that exist in the world, while the reference to the dragon as the source of its power underscores the idea that these forces are ultimately aligned with Satan.

In addition to its immediate context within the book of Revelation, this verse also raises important theological and ethical questions for Christians. It challenges believers to consider how they should respond to oppressive rulers and unjust systems of authority. It also serves as a reminder of the ultimate triumph of good over evil, as foreshadowed by the apocalyptic visions in the rest of the book of Revelation.

Overall, Revelation 13:2 is a powerful and evocative verse that has inspired countless interpretations and reflections throughout the history of Christianity. Its vivid imagery and symbolism continue to captivate and challenge readers to this day, inviting them to grapple with the complexities of human power, morality, and the ultimate purposes of God.

Get our apps

Bible Art

Scripture illustrations

Bible Chat

Scripture study companion

Bible Widget

Daily verses

Bible For Women

Faith & encouragement

Artwork for Revelation 13:2

Revelation 13:2 - "And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority."

"And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority." - Revelation 13:2