Revelation 13:17

KJV

And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} that no {G3363} man {G5100} might {G1410} buy {G59} or {G2228} sell {G4453}, save he {G1508} that had {G2192} the mark {G5480}, or {G2228} the name {G3686} of the beast {G2342}, or {G2228} the number {G706} of his {G846} name {G3686}.

Complete Jewish Bible

preventing anyone from buying or selling unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name.

Berean Standard Bible

so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark—the name of the beast or the number of its name.

American Standard Version

and that no man should be able to buy or to sell, save he that hath the mark, even the name of the beast or the number of his name.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 13:17 unveils a chilling aspect of the beast's end-time dominion: a comprehensive economic control system. This verse dictates that participation in basic commerce—buying and selling—will be strictly prohibited for anyone who does not bear the identifying mark, the name of the beast, or the numerical equivalent of its name, thereby enforcing universal allegiance through financial coercion and threatening the very survival of those who refuse to comply.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the apocalyptic narrative of [Revelation chapter 13](/revelation/13 "Revelation 13 - The Two Beasts"). It immediately follows the description of the second beast (the "false prophet") who emerges from the earth and exercises the authority of the first beast (the "sea beast"). The preceding verse, [Revelation 13:16](/revelation/13-16 "Revelation 13:16 - The Mark on Hand or Forehead"), explicitly states that the second beast "causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads." Therefore, [Revelation 13:17](/revelation/13-17 "Revelation 13:17 - Economic Control by the Beast") serves as the direct consequence and enforcement mechanism of this universal mandate, detailing the severe economic repercussions for those who refuse the mark. The chapter culminates with the enigmatic "number of his name," [666, in Revelation 13:18](/revelation/13-18 "Revelation 13:18 - The Number of the Beast"), which is intrinsically linked to the identifiers mentioned in verse 17.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery in [Revelation](/revelation/1 "The Book of Revelation") draws heavily from the Roman imperial cult of the first century CE. Emperor worship was a pervasive aspect of Roman life, often enforced through economic and social pressures. Citizens and merchants were frequently required to participate in cultic acts, such as burning incense to the emperor, to conduct business or hold public office. Refusal could lead to social ostracization, economic ruin, or even death. The concept of a "mark" or "seal" was also familiar: slaves were sometimes branded with their master's mark, soldiers might bear a tattoo of their legion or emperor, and official documents or goods were sealed with an identifying stamp. This historical backdrop provides a tangible framework for understanding the beast's system of control, where allegiance to a dominant power is enforced through economic participation and a visible sign of loyalty, paralleling the pressures faced by early Christians to conform to Roman imperial demands.
* **Key Themes:** [Revelation 13:17](/revelation/13-17 "Revelation 13:17 - Economic Control by the Beast") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in [the Book of Revelation](/revelation/1 "The Book of Revelation"). Foremost is the theme of **Economic Control and Coercion**, illustrating how an anti-God system will seek to dominate every aspect of human life, including the most fundamental economic activities, to compel worship and allegiance. This directly relates to the theme of **Allegiance and Identification**, where the "mark" serves as a visible sign of loyalty to the beast, standing in stark contrast to the "seal of God" placed on His servants (as seen in [Revelation 7:3](/revelation/7-3 "Revelation 7:3 - The Sealing of God's Servants")). The verse also underscores the theme of **Persecution and Endurance**, as those who refuse the mark face severe hardship, potentially starvation or death, which necessitates the "patient endurance of the saints" (a recurring call in [Revelation, such as in Revelation 14:12](/revelation/14-12 "Revelation 14:12 - Perseverance of the Saints")). Ultimately, it highlights the pervasive nature of **Spiritual Warfare**, where humanity is forced to choose between loyalty to God and conformity to a worldly system that usurps divine authority.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **might (Greek, _dýnamai'_):** This verb signifies "to be able" or "to be possible." In the context of "no man might buy or sell," it emphasizes the absolute inability or impossibility of engaging in commerce without the mark. The beast's power is such that it renders economic activity utterly unattainable for those who defy its mandate, highlighting a comprehensive and inescapable control.
* **save he (Greek, _ei mḗ'_):** This phrase functions as a strong exception, meaning "if not" or "but, except that." It precisely delineates the sole condition under which economic participation is permitted: only those who possess the specified identifiers (the mark, name, or number) are exempt from the universal prohibition. This underscores the exclusive and coercive nature of the beast's economic system.
* **mark (Greek, _cháragma'_):** Derived from a word meaning "to scratch" or "engrave," _cháragma_ refers to an "impression," "stamp," or "sculptured figure." It was commonly used for the imprint on coins, a brand on animals, or an official seal on documents. In [Revelation 13:17](/revelation/13-17 "Revelation 13:17 - Economic Control by the Beast"), it denotes a visible, undeniable sign of ownership, allegiance, or servitude to the beast, serving as a counter-sign to God's own seal.
* **beast (Greek, _thēríon'_):** This term, a diminutive form, refers to a "dangerous animal" or "wild beast." In [Revelation](/revelation/1 "The Book of Revelation"), it is consistently used to describe the two apocalyptic powers hostile to God and His people, particularly the first beast from the sea ([Revelation 13:1](/revelation/13-1 "Revelation 13:1 - The Beast from the Sea")), symbolizing a political and religious empire that embodies raw, destructive power and blasphemous authority.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And that no man might buy or sell":** This clause establishes the universal economic prohibition. The phrase "no man" (G5100, _tìs_, meaning "any person") emphasizes the comprehensive scope, affecting everyone regardless of status. The inability to "buy or sell" represents a complete exclusion from all commercial activity, from basic necessities to large-scale trade, effectively crippling anyone who refuses the beast's authority. This highlights the beast's total control over the global economy.
* **"save he that had the mark":** This introduces the singular condition for economic participation. The "mark" (G5480, _cháragma_) is the primary identifier, a visible sign of allegiance. To "have" (G2192, _échō_) the mark implies possession, acceptance, and bearing of this distinguishing sign. This clause makes it clear that without this specific identifier, economic life is impossible, creating an inescapable dilemma for humanity.
* **"or the name of the beast, or the number of his name":** These phrases provide alternative or supplementary identifiers to the "mark." The "name of the beast" (G3686, _ónoma_, and G2342, _thēríon_) signifies identification with its character, authority, and essence. The "number of his name" (G706, _arithmós_, and G3686, _ónoma_) points to a numerical representation of the beast's name, famously elaborated in [Revelation 13:18](/revelation/13-18 "Revelation 13:18 - The Number 666"). These three identifiers—mark, name, or number—function as a unified system of allegiance, all leading to the same outcome of economic inclusion or exclusion.

#### Literary Devices
[Revelation 13:17](/revelation/13-17 "Revelation 13:17 - Economic Control by the Beast") employs several potent literary devices. **Symbolism** is paramount, with "the mark," "the name of the beast," and "the number of his name" serving as powerful symbols of allegiance to an anti-God system, contrasting with the unseen spiritual "seal of God" on His faithful. The act of "buying or selling" is not merely literal commerce but symbolizes participation in and conformity to the beast's world system. The phrase "no man might buy or sell" without the mark uses **Hyperbole** to emphasize the absolute and inescapable nature of the beast's economic control, portraying a scenario of total global dominance. Furthermore, there is an inherent **Antithesis** between the beast's coercive system and God's gracious provision, setting up a clear choice between worldly survival and spiritual integrity. The very structure of the verse, offering "the mark, or the name... or the number," creates a sense of inescapable choice, an **Exclusivity** that leaves no room for neutrality.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 13:17 profoundly highlights the eschatological conflict between God's sovereignty and the usurping power of evil. The beast's attempt to control economic activity through a mandatory mark is a manifestation of its desire for total dominion over humanity, mirroring Satan's ancient ambition to be "like the Most High" ([Isaiah 14:14](/isaiah/14-14 "Isaiah 14:14 - Lucifer's Ambition")). This economic coercion is not merely about commerce; it's a spiritual test, forcing individuals to choose between physical survival and spiritual fidelity. It underscores the biblical theme that true worship cannot be coerced and that ultimate allegiance belongs only to God. The passage implicitly affirms God's ultimate provision for His people, even in the face of severe persecution, challenging believers to trust in divine sustenance rather than compromising their faith for worldly security.

* [Revelation 14:9-11](/revelation/14-9-11 "Revelation 14:9-11 - The Consequences of Receiving the Mark")
* [Matthew 6:25-34](/matthew/6-25-34 "Matthew 6:25-34 - Do Not Worry About Your Life")
* [Luke 16:13](/luke/16-13 "Luke 16:13 - No One Can Serve Two Masters")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 13:17 serves as a timeless warning against the dangers of systems that seek to control and coerce allegiance, particularly through economic means. While interpretations of the "mark" vary, the core principle remains: true faith demands unwavering loyalty to Christ, even when it comes at a significant personal cost. This verse challenges us to consider where our ultimate trust lies—in worldly systems and securities, or in the unfailing provision and sovereignty of God. It calls believers to cultivate a deep spiritual discernment, recognizing that the spirit of the antichrist can manifest in subtle pressures to compromise faith for convenience or survival. Our readiness to endure hardship for the sake of Christ's name is a testament to the genuineness of our commitment, reminding us that our true citizenship is in heaven and our ultimate security is found in Him alone, not in any earthly economic system.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of economic control in Revelation 13:17 challenge my understanding of security and provision in my own life?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to compromise my faith or values for worldly comfort or financial stability today?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a deeper trust in God's provision, even in uncertain times?**
* **How does my daily participation in economic systems reflect my ultimate allegiance to God or to worldly values?**

### FAQ
**What is the "mark of the beast" mentioned in Revelation 13:17?**

Answer: The "mark of the beast" (Greek, _cháragma_) is presented in [Revelation 13:16-17](/revelation/13-16-17 "Revelation 13:16-17 - The Mark and Economic Control") as a mandatory identifier—placed on the right hand or forehead—that enables participation in buying and selling. Theologically, it symbolizes allegiance to the beast's authority and system, contrasting with the "seal of God" on His faithful ([Revelation 7:3](/revelation/7-3 "Revelation 7:3 - The Sealing of God's Servants")). While interpretations vary (some literal, some symbolic), its primary function in the text is to enforce worship of the beast and exclude those who refuse from economic life, signifying a complete surrender to its anti-God dominion. It is intrinsically linked to the "name of the beast" and the "number of his name," which is [666 in Revelation 13:18](/revelation/13-18 "Revelation 13:18 - The Number of the Beast").

**Does this verse mean Christians will literally be unable to buy or sell in the future?**

Answer: The text of [Revelation 13:17](/revelation/13-17 "Revelation 13:17 - Economic Control by the Beast") describes a literal inability to buy or sell for those who do not receive the mark. Many futurist interpretations of Revelation believe this will be a literal, global economic blockade in the end times. Other interpretations view the economic control more symbolically, representing societal exclusion, persecution, or the pervasive influence of anti-Christian systems that pressure believers to compromise. Regardless of the precise interpretation, the verse underscores the severe consequences of refusing to conform to an anti-God system and highlights the call for believers to prioritize their allegiance to Christ above all worldly necessities, trusting in God's ultimate provision and sovereignty, as taught by Jesus in [Matthew 6:25-34](/matthew/6-25-34 "Matthew 6:25-34 - Do Not Worry About Your Life").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Revelation 13:17](/revelation/13-17 "Revelation 13:17 - Economic Control by the Beast") depicts the beast's oppressive economic control, its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the stark contrast between the beast's coercive system and Christ's gracious, sovereign provision and His ultimate victory. The beast seeks to control life through economic means, demanding allegiance for mere survival, but Christ offers true life and abundance, freely given to those who follow Him ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - The Good Shepherd")). Believers are called not to fear economic exclusion, but to trust in the Lord who clothes the lilies and feeds the birds ([Matthew 6:25-33](/matthew/6-25-33 "Matthew 6:25-33 - Do Not Worry")). The mark of the beast signifies ownership and servitude to a fallen power, but followers of Christ bear the "seal of God" on their foreheads ([Revelation 7:3](/revelation/7-3 "Revelation 7:3 - The Sealing of God's Servants")), signifying their redemption and belonging to God through the blood of the Lamb ([Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9 - The Lamb Who Was Slain")). Ultimately, the beast's economic reign is temporary, destined to be overthrown by the King of Kings ([Revelation 19:11-21](/revelation/19-11-21 "Revelation 19:11-21 - Christ's Return and Victory")), and those who refuse the mark and remain faithful will reign with Christ for a thousand years ([Revelation 20:4-6](/revelation/20-4-6 "Revelation 20:4-6 - The Millennium and the First Resurrection")), inheriting a kingdom where there is no more buying or selling, but eternal provision and worship of the Lamb.

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

Revelation 13:16

And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:

Revelation 14:11

And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.

Revelation 15:2

And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, [and] over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.

Revelation 14:9

And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive [his] mark in his forehead, or in his hand,

Revelation 13:18

Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number [is] Six hundred threescore [and] six.

Revelation 22:4

And they shall see his face; and his name [shall be] in their foreheads.

Revelation 3:12

Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, [which is] new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and [I will write upon him] my new name.