And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth.

REVELATION 17:9KJV
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Revelation 17:9 (KJV)

What does Revelation 17:9 mean?

Revelation 17:9 describes a symbolic vision where the "seven heads" seen by John represent "seven mountains" on which a mysterious woman sits. The verse calls for wisdom to understand this imagery, suggesting that the meaning is not straightforward but requires thoughtful interpretation.

In this part of the book, the apostle John is being shown a vision by an angel. The angel is explaining the meaning behind the strange symbols John sees. The "seven mountains" are often understood as a clue to the identity or nature of the woman and her connection to a particular place or power. The verse signals to readers that this is a key detail, and understanding it requires careful thought.

The Greek behind Revelation 17:9

  • νοῦς (nous, "mind"): This word means "mind" or "understanding." The verse highlights that grasping the meaning of the vision takes thoughtful insight, not just surface reading.
  • σοφία (sophia, "wisdom"): This word means "wisdom," and its use here emphasizes that the vision's meaning is deep and not immediately obvious.
  • ὄρη (orē, "mountains"): The Greek word for "mountains" can also mean "hills," which has led to different interpretations about the geographical or symbolic meaning intended.
  • γυνή (gynē, "woman"): This word simply means "woman," but in the vision, she represents something more than just a literal person—possibly a city, power, or system.

Why Revelation 17:9 matters

  • Revelation 17:9 signals to readers that the vision is symbolic and not meant to be taken at face value, inviting careful thought rather than quick assumptions.
  • The mention of "seven mountains" has led many to connect this passage to specific historical or geographical places, such as Rome, which was famously built on seven hills, but the text itself leaves room for interpretation.
  • This verse marks a turning point in the explanation of John's vision, showing that the angel is about to reveal the deeper meaning behind the symbols, which is important for understanding the rest of the chapter.

Where else these words appear

“mind” 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.

“wisdom” Greek G4678 · used in 49 verses

  • Matthew 11:19 The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.
  • 1 Corinthians 1:19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.
  • Ephesians 1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:

“here” Greek G5602 · used in 56 verses

  • Matthew 8:29 And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?
  • Mark 9:1 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power.
  • Luke 22:38 And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto them, It is enough.

“seven” Greek G2033 · used in 63 verses

  • Matthew 12:45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.
  • Luke 20:29 There were therefore seven brethren: and the first took a wife, and died without children.
  • Revelation 5:1 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.