Revelation 17:10 (KJV)

What does Revelation 17:10 mean?

Revelation 17:10 describes a sequence of seven kings, saying that five have already fallen, one is currently reigning, and one is still to come but will only remain for a short time. The verse uses this imagery to show a progression of rulers or kingdoms, with an emphasis on their limited and changing nature.

In the book of Revelation, the apostle John is being shown visions by an angel while exiled on the island of Patmos. Here, the angel explains part of a mysterious vision involving a woman and a beast, using the image of seven kings to symbolize powerful rulers or empires. The verse highlights that history is moving through different stages, and even the most powerful authorities are temporary and subject to change.

The Greek behind Revelation 17:10

• βασιλεῖς (basileis) — "kings": This word often refers to rulers or authorities, and in this context, it can mean either individual kings or entire kingdoms/empires. The choice of this word points to the symbolic nature of the vision, where "kings" might stand for broader systems of power.
• πεπτωκότες (peptōkotes) — "are fallen": The Greek word here means to fall or collapse, often used for defeat or ruin. This emphasizes that the first five kings or kingdoms have already lost their power.
• ἔρχεται (erchetai) — "is to come": This word means "to come" or "to arrive," highlighting that the final king or kingdom is still in the future at the time of John's vision.
• μικρὸν (mikron) — "a short space": This word means "small" or "short," and here it refers to the limited duration of the last king's rule, stressing that even the final stage will not last long.

Why Revelation 17:10 matters

• Revelation 17:10 helps clarify that the vision is not just about one moment in history but covers a sequence of rulers or powers, showing a bigger picture of change and impermanence.
• The verse connects to the surrounding passage, where mysterious symbols are explained, helping readers understand that the book often uses images to represent real-world events or powers.
• By describing the last king's time as brief, the verse hints at a coming end to oppressive rule, which is a key theme in Revelation's message of hope and ultimate justice.