These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.

REVELATION 17:13KJV
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Revelation 17:13 (KJV)

What does Revelation 17:13 mean?

Revelation 17:13 says that a group of rulers or powers will be united in their thinking and will hand over their authority and strength to support the "beast." This means they will act together, willingly giving their influence to help this central figure or force.

In the book of Revelation, John is describing a vision where several kings or leaders are cooperating with the beast, a symbol often understood as representing a powerful, evil system or ruler. The verse highlights their unity ("one mind") and their decision to give up their own power, showing a deliberate alliance or partnership in opposition to God's ways.

The Greek behind Revelation 17:13

  • "mind" (νοῦς, nous): This Greek word refers to understanding, intention, or purpose. The verse emphasizes that these rulers are not just acting together by chance, but are united in purpose and resolve.
  • "power" (δύναμις, dynamis) and "strength" (ἐξουσία, exousia): Both words relate to authority and ability, but "δύναμις" often means raw power or might, while "ἐξουσία" points to the right or authority to act. The verse shows that these rulers are giving both their practical strength and their official authority to the beast.

Why Revelation 17:13 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the alliance of these leaders is intentional and unified, not accidental or forced, which underscores the seriousness of their opposition.
  • The language reveals a complete surrender of both their ability and their right to rule, showing just how much they are invested in supporting the beast.
  • Understanding this verse helps make sense of the broader conflict in Revelation, where earthly powers align themselves against God, setting the stage for the events that follow in the vision.

Where else these words appear

“give” Greek G1239 · used in 5 verses

  • Luke 11:22 But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.
  • Luke 18:22 Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.
  • John 6:11 And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.

“mind” Greek G1106 · used in 8 verses

  • Acts 20:3 And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:25 Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:10 And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.

“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 16:10 And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain,

“one” Greek G3391 · used in 70 verses

  • Matthew 5:18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.
  • Luke 14:18 And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused.
  • Galatians 4:24 Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.