TRV
Translation
King James Version
And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire.
KJV (with Strong's)
And G2532 the ten G1176 horns G2768 which G3739 thou sawest G1492 upon G1909 the beast G2342, these G3778 shall hate G3404 the whore G4204, and G2532 shall make G4160 her G846 desolate G2049 and G2532 naked G1131, and G2532 shall eat G5315 her G846 flesh G4561, and G2532 burn G2618 her G846 with G1722 fire G4442.
Complete Jewish Bible
As for the ten horns that you saw and the beast, they will hate the whore, bring her to ruin, leave her naked, eat her flesh and consume her with fire.
Berean Standard Bible
And the ten horns and the beast that you saw will hate the prostitute. They will leave her desolate and naked, and will eat her flesh and burn her with fire.
American Standard Version
And the ten horns which thou sawest, and the beast, these shall hate the harlot, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and shall burn her utterly with fire.
World English Bible Messianic
The ten horns which you saw, and the beast, these will hate the prostitute, and will make her desolate, and will make her naked, and will eat her flesh, and will burn her utterly with fire.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the tenne hornes which thou sawest vpon the beast, are they that shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eate her flesh, and burne her with fire.
Young's Literal Translation
and the ten horns that thou didst see upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and shall burn her in fire,
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Commentary on Revelation 17 verses 14–18
14 ¶ These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.
15 And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.
16 And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire.
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.
18 And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.
Here we have some account of the downfall of Babylon, to be more fully described in the following chapter.
I. Here is a war begun between the beast and his followers, and the Lamb and his followers. The beast and his army, to an eye of sense, appear much stronger than the Lamb and his army: one would think an army with a lamb at the head of them could not stand before the great red dragon. But,
II. Here is a victory gained by the Lamb: The Lamb shall overcome. Christ must reign till all enemies be put under his feet; he will be sure to meet with many enemies, and much opposition, but he will also be sure to gain the victory.
III. Here is the ground or reason of the victory assigned; and this is taken, 1. From the character of the Lamb: He is King of kings and Lord of lords. He has, both by nature and by office, supreme dominion and power over all things; all the powers of earth and hell are subject to his check and control. 2. From the character of his followers: They are called, and chosen, and faithful. They are called out by commission to this warfare; they are chosen and fitted for it, and they will be faithful in it. Such an army, under such a commander, will at length carry all the world before them.
IV. The victory is justly aggrandized. 1. By the vast multitude who paid obedience and subjection to the beast and to the whore. She sat upon (that is, presided over) many waters; and these waters were so many multitudes of people, and nations, of all languages; yea, she reigned not only over kingdoms, but over the kings, and they were her tributaries and vassals, Rev 17:15, Rev 17:18. 2. By the powerful influence which God hereby showed he had over the minds of great men. Their hearts were in his hand, and he turned them as he pleased; for, (1.) It was of God, and to fulfil his will, that these kings agreed to give their kingdom unto the beast; they were judicially blinded and hardened to do so. And, (2.) It was of God that afterwards their hearts were turned against the whore, to hate her, and to make her desolate and naked, and to eat her flesh, and burn her with fire; they shall at length see their folly, and how they have been bewitched and enslaved by the papacy, and, out of a just resentment, shall not only fall off from Rome, but shall be made the instruments of God's providence in her destruction.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 14–18. Public domain.
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CyprianAD 258
Epistle LXII.12-13
Christ, who teaches and shows that the people of the Gentiles were coming into that place that the Jews had lost and that we were arriving afterward through the merit of faith, made wine from water, that is, he showed that the people of the Gentiles rather would resort together and come to the nuptials of Christ and of his church when the Jews were leaving. For the divine Scripture declares in the Apocalypse that the waters signify the peoples, saying, “The waters that you saw on which that harlot sits are peoples and crowds and nations of the heathen and tongues.” We perceive that this is actually also contained in the sacrament of the chalice. For because Christ, who bore our sins, also bore us all, we see that people are signified in the water, but in the wine the blood of Christ is shown. But when water is mixed with wine in the chalice, the people are united to Christ, and the multitude of the believers is bound and joined to him in whom they believe. This association and mingling of water and wine are so mixed in the chalice of the Lord that the mixture cannot mutually be separated. Whence nothing can separate the church, that is, the multitude established faithfully and firmly in the church, persevering in that which it has believed, from Christ as long as it clings and remains in undivided love. But thus, in the consecrating of the chalice of the Lord, water alone cannot be offered, nor can wine alone. For if anyone offers wine alone, the blood of Christ begins to be without us. If, in truth, the water is alone, the people begin to be without Christ. But when both are mixed and, in the union, are joined to each other and mingled together, then the spiritual and heavenly sacrament is completed.
Victorinus of PettauAD 304
Commentary on the Apocalypse of the Blessed John
"And the beast which thou sawest is of the seven." Since before those kings Nero reigned.
"And he is the eighth." He says only when this beast shall come, reckon it the eighth place, since in that is the completion. He added:-
"And shall go into perdition." For that ten kings received royal power when he shall move from the east, he says. He shall be sent from the city of Rome with his armies. And Daniel sets forth the ten horns and the ten diadems. And that these are eradicated from the former ones,-that is, that three of the principal leaders are killed by Antichrist: that the other seven give him honour and wisdom and power, of whom he says:-
"These shall hate the whore, to wit, the city, and shall burn her flesh with fire." Now that one of the heads was, as it were, slain to death, and that the stroke of his death was directed, he speaks of Nero. For it is plain that when the cavalry sent by the senate was pursuing him, he himself cut his throat. Him therefore, when raised up, God will send as a worthy king, but worthy in such a way as the Jews merited. And since he is to have another name, He shall also appoint another name, that so the Jews may receive him as if he were the Christ. Says Daniel: "He shall not know the lust of women, although before he was most impure, and he shall know no God of his fathers: for he will not be able to seduce the people of the circumcision, unless he is a judge of the law." Finally, also, he will recall the saints, not to the worship of idols, but to undertake circumcision, and, if he is able, to seduce any; for he shall so conduct himself as to be called Christ by them. But that he rises again from hell, we have said above in the word of Isaiah: "Water shall nourish him, and hell hath increased him; "who, however, must come with name unchanged, and doings unchanged, as says the Spirit.
Caesarius of ArlesAD 542
EXPOSITION ON THE APOCALYPSE 17:16, HOMILY 15
The harlot is the life of luxury that is lived by plunder and pleasures. It says that they would hate the harlot, for dissolute persons who are also proud, lustful and arrogant not only persecute the saints, but they also hold themselves in hatred. And in another way do those hate themselves in whom the word of Scripture is fulfilled, “Those who love iniquity hate their own soul.” “And they will make her desolate and naked.” Through the wrath of God and his just judgment by which they are abandoned by him, they themselves will make the world a desert, since they have been given over to it and use it unrighteously. “And they will devour her flesh.” This is so, because as the apostle says, “They will bite and eat one another.”
Primasius of HadrumetumAD 560
COMMENTARY ON THE APOCALYPSE 17:17
What the apostle said, “God gave them up to a base mind to do what they ought not,” that is also now said. For God has placed in their hearts to do that which is pleasing to him. Righteousness is pleasing to God, through which we know that retribution is visited upon the impious. Moreover, [it is according to God’s will] that they who have given their kingdom to the beast pay their just penalties with the beast, until the words of God be fulfilled, which, to be sure, consist of justice and mercy. For “all the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth.”
Primasius of HadrumetumAD 560
COMMENTARY ON THE APOCALYPSE 17:18
This woman is the very one who was given over to the corruptions of flesh and blood and who had prospered through the power of the earthly kingdom. And since she consists of those very kings over whom she is said to reign according to her habit, [the text] has divided the very same one into parts, as though separating a genus into its species, so that the words of the Lord will be fulfilled in the woman, in the city, in the kings, on the kings and on [the woman], when he redeems his own by his mercy and by his justice condemns the insolent.
Andreas of CaesareaAD 614
COMMENTARY ON THE APOCALYPSE 17:15-18
Since the angel explained these things clearly, a more detailed explanation of them is superfluous. It is remarkable to me how the devil is both enemy and avenger. For he will work through the ten horns, who are guided by him, to oppose that lover of good and virtue, Christ our God, and to lay waste that populous city that has abandoned the divine laws and become servant to his pleasures, and like a bloodthirsty beast they will glut themselves on its blood. He will regard its conflagration as an occasion for rejoicing and the mutilation of human flesh as proper food, and he who always rejoices in duplicity will grant harmony to those ten apostate horns. That which continues makes very clear that the woman who was seen is the great city that exercises power over the kings of the earth, and the sufferings of that power that is ruling during those times is prophesied. From these trials the beneficent God will redeem us and enlist us in the heavenly city, namely, in the Jerusalem above. In this city “he will be everything to everyone,” as the apostle says, “when he shall destroy every rule,” clearly every apostate rule, “and every authority and power.” In addition, he will recline with and serve those who have served him here faithfully and wisely, that is, he will give them the enjoyment of the eternal blessings that have been “prepared from the foundation of the world.” Of this bliss may also we be found worthy in Christ, the Savior and Redeemer of our souls, with whom be glory and power to the Father, together with the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen.
BedeAD 735
Commentary on Revelation
And the ten horns which you saw, etc. The glory of the world, which they now embrace with wanton love, they will begin to detest with great hatred when they see themselves condemned at the end by the Lamb's victory. It can also be understood in another way, whether it is that there are always quarrels among the proud, or that everyone who loves iniquity hates his own soul (Psalm 10).
BedeAD 735
Commentary on Revelation
And they will eat her flesh, etc. They will burn her, deprived of her usual luxuries, with the fires of hell.
BedeAD 735
Commentary on Revelation
And they will make her desolate and naked. For they themselves make the world desolate through the wrath of God, while they are devoted to it and use it unjustly.
OecumeniusAD 990
Commentary on Revelation
But how will Rome be laid waste by the kings? For we understood that this was indicated through the Revelation. Perhaps to them she will be fought over as a royal city and stronghold and populous and collecting tributes. Therefore in the war concerning her she is forced to suffer as the prize of victory laid up for all, being burned and laid waste.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Revelation 17:16 unveils a dramatic and pivotal moment in the apocalyptic narrative, depicting the unexpected turn of the "ten horns" – representing a coalition of global powers allied with the "beast" – against "the whore," symbolizing "Babylon the Great." This verse graphically illustrates their violent rejection and complete destruction of this corrupt religious, political, and economic system, making her desolate, stripping her bare, devouring her resources, and utterly consuming her with fire, all orchestrated by divine purpose.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: Revelation 17 introduces "Babylon the Great," the "mother of harlots and abominations of the earth," seated upon a scarlet beast with seven heads and ten horns. The preceding verses establish the harlot's widespread influence over kings and peoples, intoxicating them with her spiritual fornication and illicit wealth. Critically, Revelation 17:12-14 introduces the ten horns as ten kings who receive power with the beast for "one hour" and will make war with the Lamb. Verse 15 explains that the "waters" upon which the harlot sits are peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues, signifying her global reach. Revelation 17:16, therefore, presents a shocking reversal: the very powers that once supported or were seduced by her will become the instruments of her downfall, setting the stage for the detailed account of Babylon's destruction in Revelation 18.
Historical & Cultural Context: The imagery of a "harlot" and "Babylon" would have resonated deeply with John's original audience, who were familiar with Old Testament prophetic condemnations of idolatrous nations and cities, particularly those that oppressed God's people. "Babylon" was a historical archetype of imperial power, spiritual corruption, and opposition to God, stemming from the ancient Babylonian empire's destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of Israel. In the Roman context, this imagery likely served as a veiled but potent critique of Rome itself, with its imperial cult, economic dominance, and persecution of Christians. The concept of "kings" turning against a once-favored city or power was not unheard of in the ancient world, often occurring when alliances shifted or when the cost of association outweighed the benefit, a common theme in prophetic judgments against cities like Tyre or Egypt.
Key Themes: This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Revelation. It highlights the theme of Divine Judgment, demonstrating God's sovereign hand in orchestrating the downfall of all systems that oppose Him, even using wicked agents to fulfill His purposes, as explicitly stated in Revelation 17:17. The Reversal of Alliances is a profound theme, illustrating the inherent instability and self-destructive nature of evil and worldly power structures; what appears to be a unified front against God ultimately collapses from within. Furthermore, the graphic imagery underscores the theme of Complete Destruction of Evil Systems, portraying the utter annihilation and exposure of "Babylon the Great" in a manner that leaves no doubt about its final, irreversible ruin. This passage also reinforces the Sovereignty of God over human history and the actions of nations, assuring believers that despite apparent chaos, God's ultimate plan will prevail.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Revelation 17:16 is rich with Symbolism, where "the ten horns," "the beast," and "the whore" are not literal entities but represent complex geopolitical and spiritual powers. The "ten horns" symbolize a coalition of kings or nations, "the beast" represents a global anti-God empire, and "the whore" embodies "Babylon the Great," a corrupt global system of religious, economic, and political influence. The verse also employs profound Irony, as the very powers (the ten horns) that were once aligned with and seemingly benefited from the harlot's influence are divinely orchestrated to become the instruments of her utter destruction. This highlights the inherent instability and self-destructive nature of evil alliances. Furthermore, the language utilizes Graphic Imagery and Hyperbole with phrases like "eat her flesh" and "burn her with fire." While perhaps not literal cannibalism, these expressions are designed to convey the extreme violence, totality, and ruthlessness of the harlot's destruction, emphasizing the complete consumption of her resources and final annihilation. The description of making her "desolate and naked" is a form of Personification, treating the abstract entity of "the whore" as a person who can be stripped and shamed, intensifying the sense of humiliation and ruin.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 17:16 powerfully illustrates the principle of divine retribution and the ultimate triumph of God's justice over all forms of human rebellion and corruption. It underscores that even the most formidable and seemingly entrenched systems of evil are ultimately fragile and subject to God's sovereign will. The unexpected turning of the beast's allies against the harlot reveals that worldly alliances are inherently unstable and self-serving, destined to collapse under the weight of their own depravity. This passage assures believers that God remains in control, using even the actions of those who oppose Him to bring about His predetermined purposes, culminating in the complete and irreversible destruction of all that stands against His righteous kingdom.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 17:16 serves as a profound reminder that no worldly power, no matter how influential or seemingly invincible, can ultimately withstand the sovereign will of God. For believers, this truth offers immense comfort and a call to discerning faith. It encourages us not to be intimidated or seduced by the apparent glory, wealth, or political might of systems that oppose God, for their end is assured destruction. We are called to place our trust not in fleeting human alliances or corrupt institutions, but in the enduring kingdom of God. This passage also challenges us to examine our own allegiances, ensuring that our hearts are not entangled with the values or pursuits of "Babylon," but are firmly fixed on Christ and His eternal purposes. The dramatic reversal depicted here should inspire patience and hope, knowing that God's justice will prevail, and every system that exalts itself against Him will ultimately be brought to nothing.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "the whore" represent in Revelation 17?
Answer: "The whore," also referred to as "Babylon the Great," is a complex symbol in Revelation 17. Theologically, she represents a vast, corrupt global system that encompasses religious apostasy, economic exploitation, and political power, all in opposition to God. She is depicted as intoxicating the kings and inhabitants of the earth with her spiritual fornication and illicit wealth. While some interpretations identify her with a specific historical city or entity (like Rome), it is more broadly understood as the anti-God world system that seduces humanity away from true worship and righteousness, embodying all forms of idolatry, materialism, and rebellion against divine truth. Her ultimate destruction signifies the end of all such systems.
Why do the "ten horns" turn against "the whore" if they were previously allied with her?
Answer: The turning of the "ten horns" (representing a coalition of kings or nations) against "the whore" is a divinely orchestrated act, as Revelation 17:17 explicitly states: "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." This demonstrates God's absolute sovereignty over human affairs, even over the actions of wicked rulers. The alliance between the beast, the horns, and the harlot is inherently unstable and self-serving. When God's appointed time comes, He will cause these powers to turn on the harlot, perhaps because her usefulness to them has ended, or because their own ambitions lead them to consume her resources and power. This act serves as a dramatic display of divine judgment, where the very instruments of evil become the agents of its own destruction.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Revelation 17:16 describes a future judgment upon a corrupt world system, its Christ-centered fulfillment is found in the ultimate triumph of the Lamb of God over all opposing powers. The graphic destruction of "the whore" by the "ten horns" foreshadows the complete and final dismantling of every kingdom, authority, and power that exalts itself against Christ. Jesus, as the true King of kings and Lord of lords, does not need human alliances or worldly systems to achieve His victory; rather, He orchestrates their self-destruction to clear the way for His perfect and eternal reign. This passage, therefore, points to the certainty of Christ's return, when He will judge the living and the dead, and establish His kingdom, a kingdom that will know no end (Luke 1:33). The Lamb, who was slain and by His blood purchased people for God (Revelation 5:9), is the one against whom the beast and the kings make war, and He is the one who will ultimately overcome them (Revelation 17:14). Thus, the judgment depicted in Revelation 17:16 is a necessary precursor to the glorious revelation of Christ's universal dominion and the establishment of the New Jerusalem, where God dwells with His people forever (Revelation 21:3).