Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.

REVELATION 13:18KJV
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Revelation 13:18 (KJV)

What does Revelation 13:18 mean?

Revelation 13:18 says that wisdom and understanding are needed to figure out the number of the beast, which is described as the number of a man: 666. The verse invites the reader to use discernment to "count" or calculate this number and its meaning.

In the book of Revelation, John is writing to early Christian communities facing persecution and confusion. This verse comes after a description of a mysterious "beast" that opposes God and pressures people to worship it. The call for wisdom suggests that the meaning of "666" is not obvious and requires thoughtful attention, possibly hinting at a symbolic or coded message relevant to the original audience.

The Greek behind Revelation 13:18

  • σοφία (sophia, G4678): This word means "wisdom." Here, it signals that understanding the number of the beast is not straightforward and requires insight beyond surface reading.
  • νοῦς (nous, G3563): This word is often translated "understanding" or "mind." The verse singles out those with discernment, suggesting that not everyone will grasp the meaning without careful thought.
  • ψηφισάτω (psēphisatō, G5585): This verb means "to count" or "to calculate." The instruction is to actively work out or reckon the number, not just to observe it.
  • ἀριθμός (arithmos, G706): This is the word for "number." The repetition in the verse emphasizes that the number itself is significant and meant to be interpreted.

Why Revelation 13:18 matters

  • Revelation 13:18 clarifies that the number 666 is not meant to be taken at face value, but is a puzzle or code that invites deeper investigation.
  • The verse shows that the early Christians were expected to use wisdom and discernment, not just passive acceptance, in understanding prophetic messages.
  • By calling the number "the number of a man," the verse hints at a human connection or identity behind the symbol of the beast, which has led to many interpretations and debates throughout history.

Where else these words appear

“count” Greek G5585 · used in 2 verses

  • Luke 14:28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?

“number” Greek G706 · used in 15 verses

  • Luke 22:3 Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve.
  • Acts 6:7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
  • Revelation 7:4 And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.

“understanding” Greek G3563 · used in 22 verses

  • Luke 24:45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,
  • 1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
  • Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

“beast” Greek G2342 · used in 38 verses

  • Mark 1:13 And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan; and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered unto him.
  • Revelation 13:3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.
  • Revelation 16:13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.