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Revelation 17:5

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

And written across her forehead was a name: 'Mystery, Babylon the Great, the Mother of All Prostitutes and Everything Evil on Earth.'

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

Some things wear their true nature right on their face, and this one's broadcasting pure corruption.

📚 Historical Context

In the first century AD, the apostle John wrote the Book of Revelation while exiled on the island of Patmos, addressing the severe persecution of Christians under the Roman Empire, which was a time of intense opposition to the early church. The term "Babylon" in this context symbolizes Rome as a powerful, idolatrous empire that embodied moral decay and spiritual rebellion, much like the ancient Babylonian empire in the Old Testament that destroyed Jerusalem and led God's people into exile. This verse portrays a symbolic woman as the representation of this corrupt system, highlighting false religions and abominations that seduce people away from true worship of God.

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