Revelation 17:13

KJV

These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.

KJV (with Strong's)

These {G3778} have {G2192} one {G3391} mind {G1106}, and {G2532} shall give {G1239} their {G1438} power {G1411} and {G2532} strength {G1849} unto the beast {G2342}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They have one mind, and they hand over their power and authority to the beast.

Berean Standard Bible

These kings have one purpose: to yield their power and authority to the beast.

American Standard Version

These have one mind, and they give their power and authority unto the beast.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 17:13 vividly portrays an unprecedented alignment of global power in the end times, revealing that a coalition of ten kings will willingly surrender their independent sovereignty, military might, and political influence to the formidable figure known as "the beast." This verse underscores a chilling unity of purpose among these earthly rulers, demonstrating their complete agreement and voluntary submission to a singular, dominant entity, thereby consolidating immense power in opposition to God's divine plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of John's profound vision in [Revelation chapter 17](/revelation/17 "Revelation 17 - The Scarlet Beast and the Woman"). The chapter graphically depicts the judgment of "Babylon the Great," a symbolic entity often interpreted as a corrupt global system embodying political, economic, and religious apostasy. The immediate preceding verse, [Revelation 17:12](/revelation/17-12 "Revelation 17:12 - The Ten Kings and the Beast"), introduces "ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast." Verse 13 then clarifies the nature of their relationship and future disposition: they will share a common objective and willingly cede their distinct authority to the beast. This beast, a central antagonist in prophetic literature, was first introduced in [Revelation 13:1](/revelation/13-1 "Revelation 13:1 - The Beast from the Sea"), representing a powerful, anti-God political and spiritual force. The narrative flow in [Revelation 17](/revelation/17 "Revelation 17 - The Vision of the Great Harlot") builds towards the ultimate confrontation between God's kingdom and these unified forces of evil.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** As an apocalyptic book, Revelation employs rich symbolism that would have resonated with its original first-century audience, living under the shadow of the Roman Empire. The imagery of powerful beasts and kings, while pointing to future events, often drew parallels from historical empires and their oppressive rule, such as those seen in the prophecies of Daniel. The concept of centralized power and imperial cults, where rulers demanded absolute allegiance, provides a backdrop for understanding the profound nature of the kings' submission to the beast. While specific historical identifications are debated, the underlying cultural context highlights the perpetual human temptation to consolidate power and rebel against divine authority, a theme that transcends any single historical period and finds its ultimate expression in the end-time scenario described here.
* **Key Themes:** [Revelation 17:13](/revelation/17-13 "Revelation 17:13 - The Kings' Unity with the Beast") contributes significantly to several major themes within the book of Revelation and broader biblical prophecy. The phrase "have one mind" signifies a deliberate, shared, and malevolent purpose among these kings. Their unity is not for the common good or divine purposes, but for consolidating power under the beast, ultimately in direct opposition to Christ and His coming kingdom. This foreshadows the climactic battle described in [Revelation 19:19](/revelation/19-19 "Revelation 19:19 - The Battle Against the Beast and His Armies"), where these unified forces directly challenge the returning Christ. Furthermore, the kings "shall give their power and strength unto the beast," indicating a voluntary and complete surrender of their independent authority, military might, and national resources. This suggests an unprecedented level of global political and military centralization under a single, dominant entity, which stands in stark contrast to the fragmented nature of earthly powers throughout history. This centralization of power facilitates the beast's rise to unparalleled global influence and sets the stage for the final confrontation between God's kingdom and the forces of evil, as the beast's temporary dominion is ultimately overcome by the Lamb, as stated in [Revelation 17:14](/revelation/17-14 "Revelation 17:14 - The Lamb's Victory").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **mind (Greek, _gnṓmē'_):** From G1106, meaning "cognition, i.e. (subjectively) opinion, or (objectively) resolve (counsel, consent, etc.)." In this context, it signifies a deep, shared purpose and deliberate agreement among the kings. It's not merely a casual alliance but a unified resolve, a single will driving their actions. This highlights the intentionality of their submission to the beast.
* **power (Greek, _dýnamis'_):** From G1411, meaning "force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power... ability, might, strength." This refers to the inherent capacity, military might, and physical strength of these kings and their kingdoms. By giving their `dýnamis` to the beast, they are surrendering their raw, intrinsic ability to wage war, enforce laws, and exert influence.
* **strength (Greek, _exousía'_):** From G1849, meaning "privilege, i.e. (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery... delegated influence:--authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right." While often translated similarly to "power," `exousía` here denotes their legitimate authority, jurisdiction, and right to rule. It's the sovereign right to exercise control. The kings are not just giving their physical might (`dýnamis`) but also their very right to govern and command (`exousía`), transferring their independent sovereignty to the beast.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"These have one mind":** This clause emphasizes the astonishing unity and singular purpose among the ten kings. Despite their individual kingdoms and potential for rivalry, they achieve a complete consensus (μίαν γνώμην, _mian gnōmēn_) regarding their allegiance and actions. This "one mind" implies a deliberate, conscious decision to align their wills, strategies, and objectives, indicating a profound spiritual and political harmony in their rebellion against God and their support for the beast.
* **"and shall give their power and strength":** This phrase describes the active and voluntary surrender of their inherent capabilities and sovereign authority. "Power" (_dýnamis_) refers to their inherent might, military capacity, and resources, while "strength" (_exousía_) denotes their rightful jurisdiction, freedom to act, and delegated authority. The use of "shall give" (διδόασιν, _didóasin_, present tense indicating a future certainty or ongoing action) underscores the deliberate and decisive nature of this transfer. They are not merely coerced but willingly cede their independent rule and means of enforcement.
* **"unto the beast":** This specifies the recipient of this unprecedented transfer of power and authority. The "beast" is the central figure of anti-Christ power in Revelation, representing a global political and spiritual system animated by Satan. The kings' voluntary submission elevates the beast to a position of unparalleled global dominance, making him the supreme authority over their combined territories and resources, thus setting the stage for his final, albeit temporary, reign and ultimate confrontation with God.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 17:13 is rich in **Symbolism**. The "ten kings" are symbolic of a coalition of earthly powers or nations in the end times, not necessarily a literal count of ten specific individuals, but rather a representation of a unified global political force. The "beast" is a powerful symbol of an anti-God political and spiritual system, ultimately controlled by Satan, embodying rebellion and opposition to divine authority. The act of "giving their power and strength" is symbolic of the complete and voluntary surrender of national sovereignty and military might to this central, malevolent entity. The phrase "one mind" employs **Synecdoche**, where "mind" represents the entire unified will and purpose of these kings. Furthermore, the entire passage serves as **Foreshadowing**, setting the stage for the final global conflict between the forces of evil, united under the beast, and the returning Christ, culminating in the beast's ultimate defeat.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the nature of unified rebellion against God, a recurring theme throughout biblical history, from the Tower of Babel to the kings of the earth arraying themselves against the Lord and His Anointed. It highlights humanity's perennial temptation to consolidate power and establish a kingdom apart from God, ultimately leading to idolatry and opposition to divine rule. The voluntary surrender of sovereignty by these kings to the beast reveals the seductive allure of centralized power and the willingness of human leaders to compromise their autonomy for a shared, ungodly agenda. Theologically, it underscores the spiritual battle for allegiance, where earthly kingdoms choose to align with the forces of darkness rather than submit to the rightful reign of God. Yet, even this formidable alliance operates within the confines of God's sovereign plan, serving His ultimate purpose to bring about the final triumph of Christ's kingdom.

* [Daniel 7:23-24](/daniel/7-23-24 "Daniel 7:23-24 - The Fourth Beast and the Ten Horns")
* [Revelation 19:19](/revelation/19-19 "Revelation 19:19 - The Battle of Armageddon")
* [Revelation 19:20](/revelation/19-20 "Revelation 19:20 - The Beast and False Prophet Cast into the Lake of Fire")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 17:13 serves as a sobering reminder of the spiritual realities at play in our world and the critical need for discernment. While the full manifestation of this prophecy lies in the future, the principles it embodies are timeless. We are called to be vigilant against any form of unity or power consolidation that seeks to undermine truth, liberty, or the worship of God. This verse challenges us to examine our own allegiances: do we align our minds with worldly systems that promise power and security, or do we commit our "power and strength" to the kingdom of God? It reminds us that true unity is found in Christ, not in unholy alliances. In a world increasingly drawn to centralized control and global governance, believers are called to stand firm in their faith, to discern the spirits, and to recognize that all earthly power is temporary and ultimately subject to the sovereign will of God. Our hope is not in political systems or human leaders, but in the Lamb who ultimately conquers all.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might the "one mind" described in this verse manifest in contemporary global movements or ideologies, and how can believers discern such alignments?**
* **How does the voluntary surrender of power by the kings to the beast challenge our understanding of sovereignty and authority, both human and divine?**
* **What does it mean for me personally to "give my power and strength" to Christ rather than to worldly systems or pursuits?**
* **How can the ultimate defeat of the beast, despite his formidable power, strengthen my trust in God's sovereignty amidst challenging global events?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "ten kings" mentioned in Revelation 17:13?**

Answer: The "ten kings" are generally understood as a symbolic representation of a future coalition of world leaders or nations that will emerge in the end times. While some interpretations suggest a literal ten kings, the number often signifies completeness or a significant number of allied powers. They are depicted as receiving authority alongside the beast for a short period, indicating a unified political and military alliance that willingly subordinates itself to the beast's agenda. Their identity remains veiled, but their purpose—to empower the beast—is clearly revealed.

**What does it mean for these kings to "have one mind" and give their power to the beast?**

Answer: To "have one mind" (μίαν γνώμην, _mian gnōmēn_) signifies a complete and deliberate unity of purpose, will, and intention among these kings. It implies a shared resolve and a collective decision to align their individual interests and strategies under the beast's leadership. This unity is not accidental but a conscious choice to consolidate their collective "power" (_dýnamis_, inherent might) and "strength" (_exousía_, rightful authority/jurisdiction) and voluntarily transfer it to the beast. This act of giving away their sovereignty highlights an unprecedented level of global political and military centralization under an anti-God figure, enabling the beast to wield immense, unified influence on the world stage.

**How does this verse relate to the broader prophetic narrative of Revelation?**

Answer: [Revelation 17:13](/revelation/17-13 "Revelation 17:13 - The Kings' Unity with the Beast") is a crucial piece in the prophetic puzzle of Revelation, detailing the political and military support system for the "beast" (often understood as the Antichrist or a final global empire). It explains *how* the beast will achieve such unparalleled global dominance: through the willing submission and unified support of a powerful coalition of world leaders. This verse sets the stage for the climactic confrontation between the beast and his allies against Christ, as described in [Revelation 19](/revelation/19 "Revelation 19 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb and the Rider on the White Horse"), and ultimately underscores the temporary nature of their power before God's ultimate and eternal victory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Revelation 17:13](/revelation/17-13 "Revelation 17:13 - The Kings' Unity with the Beast") describes a chilling picture of earthly powers uniting in rebellion against God, its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the stark contrast it presents to the true and eternal King, Jesus Christ. The beast's temporary reign, empowered by the voluntary submission of worldly kings, highlights the counterfeit nature of his authority, which is ultimately destined for destruction. In contrast, Christ's authority is inherent and eternal, for "all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me," as He declares in [Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus"). The "one mind" of the kings aligned with the beast stands in stark opposition to the true unity found in the body of Christ, where believers are called to have the "mind of Christ" ([1 Corinthians 2:16](/1_corinthians/2-16 "1 Corinthians 2:16 - Having the Mind of Christ")) and to submit to His loving Lordship. Ultimately, the beast and his allies, despite their consolidated power, will be utterly defeated by the Lamb, who is "King of kings and Lord of lords" ([Revelation 17:14](/revelation/17-14 "Revelation 17:14 - The Lamb's Victory")). This verse, therefore, magnifies the absolute sovereignty of Christ, whose kingdom is not of this world ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World")), but will ultimately crush all earthly opposition and establish an everlasting dominion where every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - The Exaltation of Christ")).

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 17:17

For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled.

Ezekiel 38:10

Thus saith the Lord GOD; It shall also come to pass, [that] at the same time shall things come into thy mind, and thou shalt think an evil thought:

Isaiah 10:5

¶ O Assyrian, the rod of mine anger, and the staff in their hand is mine indignation.

Isaiah 10:7

Howbeit he meaneth not so, neither doth his heart think so; but [it is] in his heart to destroy and cut off nations not a few.

Philippians 2:2

Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, [being] of one accord, of one mind.

Philippians 1:27

¶ Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

Acts 4:28

For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.