And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.

REVELATION 13:6KJV
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Revelation 13:6 (KJV)

What does Revelation 13:6 mean?

Revelation 13:6 describes a figure who speaks out in blasphemy against God, dishonoring God's name, God's dwelling place, and those who live in heaven. The verse highlights the open and aggressive opposition this figure shows toward everything connected to God.

In the context of Revelation, this verse is part of a vision given to John, where a beast represents a powerful force or ruler opposed to God. The beast’s words are not just insults but are seen as direct attacks on God’s character, reputation, and the heavenly realm. This sets the stage for the conflict between good and evil described throughout the chapter.

The Greek behind Revelation 13:6

  • The word for "blasphemy" (βλασφημία, blasphēmia) means speaking evil or showing contempt for what is holy. Here, it emphasizes the seriousness of the beast’s words against God.
  • "Tabernacle" (σκηνή, skēnē) refers to a dwelling place or tent, often used in the Bible for God’s presence among people. In this verse, it likely points to God’s heavenly dwelling, not an earthly structure.
  • The phrase "them that dwell in heaven" uses the Greek word κατοικέω (katoikeō, "dwell"), which suggests a settled, ongoing presence. This shows the beast’s hostility extends even to the inhabitants of heaven, not just God alone.

Why Revelation 13:6 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the opposition described is not vague or general—it is specifically directed at God, God’s name, God’s dwelling, and the heavenly community.
  • The verse connects the beast’s actions to a broader spiritual conflict, helping readers see that the struggle is not just on earth but involves the entire realm of God’s authority.
  • Understanding the scope of the beast’s blasphemy helps explain why later verses describe such severe consequences and judgments.

Where else these words appear

“dwell” Greek G4637 · used in 5 verses

  • John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us,(and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
  • Revelation 7:15 Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.
  • Revelation 12:12 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

“blasphemy” Greek G988 · used in 18 verses

  • Matthew 12:31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
  • Mark 7:22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness:
  • 1 Timothy 6:4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,

“tabernacle” Greek G4633 · used in 20 verses

  • Matthew 17:4 Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.
  • Acts 15:16 After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up:
  • Hebrews 9:8 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:

“blaspheme” Greek G987 · used in 35 verses

  • Matthew 9:3 And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth.
  • Acts 18:6 And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.
  • Titus 3:2 To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.