Revelation 13:11

KJV

¶ And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} I beheld {G1492} another {G243} beast {G2342} coming up {G305} out of {G1537} the earth {G1093}; and {G2532} he had {G2192} two {G1417} horns {G2768} like {G3664} a lamb {G721}, and {G2532} he spake {G2980} as {G5613} a dragon {G1404}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth. It had two horns like those of a lamb, but it spoke like a dragon.

Berean Standard Bible

Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. This beast had two horns like a lamb, but spoke like a dragon.

American Standard Version

And I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like unto a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 13:11 introduces a second significant apocalyptic figure, emerging from the earth, distinct yet complementary to the first beast from the sea. This entity presents a deceptive appearance, characterized by lamb-like horns, suggesting innocence or spiritual authority, yet its true nature is revealed through its dragon-like speech, aligning it with Satan's deceptive and oppressive agenda. This verse sets the stage for understanding the spiritual and propagandistic arm of the antichrist system, emphasizing the profound deception that will characterize the end times.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 13:11 directly follows the description of the first beast, which rose from the sea and received its power, throne, and great authority from the dragon, demanding worship from the world ([Revelation 13:1-10](/revelation/13-1-10 "Revelation 13:1-10 - The Beast from the Sea")). While the first beast embodies political and economic power, the introduction of the second beast signals a shift to a different, yet equally dangerous, dimension of the anti-God system. This second beast's primary function, elaborated in subsequent verses ([Revelation 13:12-17](/revelation/13-12-17 "Revelation 13:12-17 - The Second Beast's Authority and Deception")), is to enforce the worship of the first beast, performing great signs and wonders to deceive humanity. The two beasts, along with the dragon ([Revelation 12:9](/revelation/12-9 "Revelation 12:9 - Satan, the Great Dragon")), form an unholy trinity, mimicking God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in their perverted mission.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** John wrote Revelation during a time of intense persecution for early Christians, likely under the Roman Emperor Domitian, who demanded emperor worship. The imagery of beasts and dragons was common in ancient Near Eastern apocalyptic literature, often symbolizing oppressive empires or chaotic forces. The "earth" as a place of origin, in contrast to the "sea" (often representing chaotic nations or peoples), could suggest an internal, perhaps more localized or immanent origin for this beast, possibly arising from within established human systems, philosophies, or even religious institutions. The concept of a spiritual authority enforcing political worship would have resonated deeply with Christians facing the pressures of the imperial cult, where refusal to worship the emperor could mean death.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes within Revelation. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **deception**, highlighting how evil will often present itself in a seemingly benevolent or spiritual guise to mislead humanity. The contrast between the "lamb-like" appearance and "dragon-like" speech is central to this theme. Secondly, it develops the theme of **counterfeit worship**, revealing how the second beast will orchestrate a global system of idolatry, compelling allegiance to the first beast rather than to God. This directly opposes the call to worship God alone found throughout the book, as seen in passages like [Revelation 14:7](/revelation/14-7 "Revelation 14:7 - Worship God, the Creator"). Thirdly, it introduces the concept of a **spiritual enforcer** within the end-times scenario, often identified as the "false prophet" ([Revelation 16:13](/revelation/16-13 "Revelation 16:13 - The Three Unclean Spirits")). This figure's role is to provide the theological justification and miraculous validation for the first beast's authority, ensuring widespread compliance and devotion to the anti-Christ system.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **earth (Greek, _gē'_):** In this context, "out of the earth" (G1537 _ek_ + G1093 _gē_) signifies the origin of the second beast. Unlike the first beast from the "sea" (often symbolizing the tumultuous nations or peoples), this beast's emergence "from the earth" suggests a more grounded, perhaps established, or even seemingly legitimate origin within human society. It could imply an indigenous, internal, or even a global system that arises from human ideologies, religious movements, or governmental structures, gaining widespread acceptance and influence from the ground up.
* **lamb (Greek, _arníon'_):** The Greek word _arníon_ is a diminutive form of "lamb," often used affectionately and, significantly, is the primary term for Jesus Christ throughout Revelation, emphasizing His sacrificial and gentle nature ([Revelation 5:6](/revelation/5-6 "Revelation 5:6 - The Lamb with Seven Horns and Seven Eyes")). The description "two horns like a lamb" (G1417 _dýo_ + G2768 _kéras_ + G3664 _hómoios_ + G721 _arníon_) is a profound act of deceptive mimicry. It suggests an outward appearance of innocence, spirituality, benevolence, or even Christ-like authority, designed to mislead and gain trust, masking its true, sinister intentions.
* **dragon (Greek, _drákōn'_):** The term "dragon" (G1404 _drákōn_) is explicitly identified as Satan in Revelation ([Revelation 12:9](/revelation/12-9 "Revelation 12:9 - Satan, the Great Dragon")). The phrase "he spake as a dragon" (G2980 _laléō_ + G5613 _hōs_ + G1404 _drákōn_) reveals the true, malevolent nature behind the beast's benign facade. Despite its lamb-like appearance, its words, doctrines, and decrees are not of God but are manipulative, oppressive, and ultimately aligned with the will of Satan, leading humanity into idolatry and rebellion against God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth":** This clause introduces a new, distinct entity in John's vision, "another beast" (G243 _állos_ + G2342 _thēríon_), indicating its separate yet related function to the first beast. Its origin "out of the earth" (G1537 _ek_ + G1093 _gē_) contrasts with the first beast's emergence from the sea, suggesting a different sphere of influence—perhaps an earthly, religious, or philosophical power structure that arises from within human society rather than from the chaotic realm of nations.
* **"and he had two horns like a lamb":** This vivid imagery presents a deceptive appearance. The "two horns" (G1417 _dýo_ + G2768 _kéras_) signify power and authority, but their resemblance "like a lamb" (G3664 _hómoios_ + G721 _arníon_) is profoundly misleading. The lamb is a central symbol for Jesus Christ in Revelation, representing His sacrifice and authority. Thus, this beast cloaks itself in an outward guise of innocence, spiritual purity, or even Christ-like benevolence, designed to attract and deceive.
* **"and he spake as a dragon":** This stark contrast immediately exposes the beast's true, malevolent nature. While appearing like a lamb, its "speech" (G2980 _laléō_) is "as a dragon" (G5613 _hōs_ + G1404 _drákōn_). The dragon is explicitly identified as Satan. Therefore, despite its benign exterior, the beast's message, doctrines, and commands are not from God but are inspired by and serve the purposes of the ultimate adversary, promoting lies, oppression, and rebellion against divine truth.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 13:11 is rich with **Symbolism** and **Contrast**, which are key to understanding its message. The "beast" itself is a potent symbol, representing a malevolent power or system. Its origin "out of the earth" symbolizes its earthly, perhaps institutional or religious, nature, distinguishing it from the "sea beast." The most striking device is the **Juxtaposition** of its appearance and speech: "two horns like a lamb" versus "he spake as a dragon." The "lamb" is a powerful **Metaphor** and **Allusion** to Jesus Christ, highlighting the beast's deceptive mimicry of divine authority and innocence. Conversely, the "dragon" is a direct **Symbol** and **Allusion** to Satan, revealing the true source and nature of the beast's message. This stark contrast emphasizes the profound **Irony** of the beast's presentation, warning believers that spiritual danger often comes disguised as piety or benevolence, ultimately speaking the lies of the enemy.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 13:11 serves as a profound theological warning about the nature of spiritual deception in the end times. It highlights that the most dangerous forms of evil may not appear overtly monstrous but rather in guises of piety, spirituality, or even benevolence. This "false prophet" figure, with its lamb-like appearance and dragon-like voice, embodies the ultimate counterfeit, mimicking the true Lamb of God while serving the agenda of the dragon (Satan). Theologically, it underscores the importance of discernment, reminding believers that outward appearances can be misleading and that the true test of any teaching or authority lies in its alignment with the character and truth of God, not in its perceived spiritual aura or miraculous signs. This beast's role in enforcing worship of the first beast also reinforces the overarching theme in Revelation of the cosmic battle over who receives worship—God or the counterfeit powers.

* [Matthew 7:15](/matthew/7-15 "Matthew 7:15 - Beware of False Prophets")
* [2 Corinthians 11:14](/2_corinthians/11-14 "2 Corinthians 11:14 - Satan Disguised as an Angel of Light")
* [1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 13:11 offers a timeless and crucial lesson for believers in every age: the necessity of profound spiritual discernment. In a world saturated with competing ideologies, spiritual movements, and charismatic leaders, this verse warns us that genuine danger often hides behind attractive, seemingly innocent, or even "spiritual" facades. We are called to look beyond outward appearances and listen carefully to the true source and content of messages. Does a teaching or leader truly glorify the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, and align with the unchanging truth of His Word, or does it subtly, or even overtly, promote another authority, system, or self-serving agenda that ultimately echoes the voice of the dragon? This verse challenges us to be vigilant, to "test the spirits" ([1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits")), and to remain rooted in biblical truth, recognizing that even miraculous signs can be used for deception ([Matthew 24:24](/matthew/24-24 "Matthew 24:24 - False Christs and False Prophets")). Our spiritual safety depends on our ability to distinguish the true Shepherd's voice from the cunning whispers of the enemy disguised in sheep's clothing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I develop greater spiritual discernment in my daily life to recognize subtle forms of deception?**
* **What are some contemporary "lamb-like" appearances in society or religious movements that might mask a "dragon-like" message?**
* **How does my commitment to biblical truth equip me to identify and resist teachings that subtly lead away from Christ?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the second beast coming "out of the earth" compared to the first beast coming "out of the sea"?**

Answer: The distinction in origin is highly symbolic. The first beast, emerging "out of the sea" ([Revelation 13:1](/revelation/13-1 "Revelation 13:1 - The Beast from the Sea")), is often interpreted as representing political power or empires arising from the chaotic, tumultuous "sea" of nations and peoples. In contrast, the second beast coming "out of the earth" suggests a more grounded, perhaps indigenous, or internally generated power. This could symbolize a religious, philosophical, or cultural system that arises from within established human society, gaining widespread acceptance and influence from the ground up, making it appear more familiar or legitimate. It signifies a power that operates within the existing structures of the world, rather than overtly conquering them.

**How does the imagery of "two horns like a lamb" and "spake as a dragon" convey deception?**

Answer: This imagery is a powerful representation of profound deception. The "lamb" ([Revelation 5:6](/revelation/5-6 "Revelation 5:6 - The Lamb with Seven Horns and Seven Eyes")) is the quintessential symbol for Jesus Christ in Revelation, representing His innocence, sacrifice, and divine authority. Therefore, the beast's "lamb-like horns" suggest an outward appearance of purity, benevolence, spiritual authority, or even Christ-likeness, designed to gain trust and mislead. However, the immediate contrast, "he spake as a dragon," exposes its true nature. The "dragon" is explicitly identified as Satan ([Revelation 12:9](/revelation/12-9 "Revelation 12:9 - Satan, the Great Dragon")). This means that despite its benign or even holy facade, the beast's message, doctrines, and decrees are not from God but are inspired by and serve the purposes of Satan, promoting lies, oppression, and rebellion against divine truth. It's a warning that evil can masquerade as good, especially in the spiritual realm.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 13:11, with its depiction of a deceptive beast mimicking the Lamb yet speaking as the dragon, profoundly highlights the unique and unparalleled nature of Jesus Christ, the true Lamb of God. The beast's counterfeit lamb-like appearance underscores the absolute authenticity of Christ, who truly is the innocent, sacrificial Lamb whose blood takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Unlike the beast, whose power and message originate from Satan, Jesus' authority comes directly from God the Father, and His words are truth and life ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). The beast's dragon-like speech, leading to idolatry and spiritual enslavement, stands in stark contrast to Christ's voice, which calls His sheep to freedom, salvation, and eternal life ([John 10:27-28](/john/10-27-28 "John 10:27-28 - My Sheep Hear My Voice")). Ultimately, this verse serves as a stark reminder that while there will be many counterfeits seeking to deceive, only Jesus, the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world ([Revelation 13:8](/revelation/13-8 "Revelation 13:8 - The Lamb Slain")), offers genuine salvation and the authentic path to God. His victory over the dragon and all its agents ([Revelation 20:10](/revelation/20-10 "Revelation 20:10 - Satan, the Beast, and the False Prophet Cast into the Lake of Fire")) ensures that the true Lamb will reign supreme, and His followers will never be truly deceived.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 7:8

I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn [were] eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things.

2 Corinthians 11:13

For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

2 Corinthians 11:15

Therefore [it is] no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

Matthew 7:15

¶ Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

Revelation 17:6

And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.

Revelation 16:13

And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs [come] out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.

Revelation 11:7

And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.