Revelation 17:18 (KJV)

What does Revelation 17:18 mean?

Revelation 17:18 explains that the woman seen in John’s vision represents a powerful city that rules over the kings of the earth. This verse identifies the symbolic woman as a great city with significant influence and authority in the world.

The angel is speaking to John, clarifying the meaning of the vision he has just witnessed. In the context of Revelation, this “woman” has been described with vivid imagery, and here her identity is made plain: she stands for a city known for its dominance and control over other rulers. This explanation ties together the vision’s symbolism with real-world power structures familiar to the original audience.

The Greek behind Revelation 17:18

• πόλις (polis, G4172): This word means “city” and is used here to show that the woman is not a literal person but stands for an actual city.
• βασιλείαν ἔχει (basileian echei, G2192, G932): The phrase means “has a kingdom” or “reigns,” highlighting the city’s authority over other rulers, not just influence but real governing power.
• γῆς (gēs, G1093): This word means “earth” or “land,” emphasizing the global or widespread reach of the city’s rule, not just a local or regional influence.

Why Revelation 17:18 matters

• This verse clears up confusion from earlier in the chapter by directly stating what the woman symbolizes, helping readers understand the vision’s meaning.
• By calling the city “great” and saying it “reigns over the kings of the earth,” the verse emphasizes the scale and seriousness of the city’s power, setting the stage for the judgments described in the following chapters.
• The identification of the woman with a city connects the vision to real-world political and social realities, making the symbolism more concrete and relevant for both ancient and modern readers.