Revelation 17:5

And upon her forehead [was] a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

And {G2532} upon {G1909} her {G846} forehead {G3359} was a name {G3686} written {G1125}, MYSTERY {G3466}, BABYLON {G897} THE GREAT {G3173}, THE MOTHER {G3384} OF HARLOTS {G4204} AND {G2532} ABOMINATIONS {G946} OF THE EARTH {G1093}.

On her forehead was written a name with a hidden meaning,

BAVEL THE GREAT

MOTHER OF WHORES AND OF

THE EARTH’S OBSCENITIES

And on her forehead a mysterious name was written: BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

and upon her forehead a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF THE HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

Revelation 17:5 describes the identifying mark of the mysterious woman, a central figure in the apocalyptic vision of John. This verse is pivotal in understanding the nature of the great harlot, often interpreted as 'Mystery Babylon'.

Context

This verse is part of a vision shown to John by one of the seven angels who had the seven vials (Revelation 17:1). The angel is explaining the judgment of the "great whore that sitteth upon many waters." The woman is depicted riding a scarlet beast, full of names of blasphemy, with seven heads and ten horns (Revelation 17:3). Her attire and actions symbolize immense wealth, power, and spiritual corruption. This verse reveals the name written on her forehead, identifying her true nature and origin.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Symbolic Identity: The name "MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT" indicates that this entity is not merely a literal city but a symbolic representation of a powerful, corrupt system or spiritual force that opposes God throughout history. It embodies all that is contrary to God's kingdom.
  • Spiritual Harlotry and Idolatry: Being named "THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS" signifies that this entity is the source and progenitor of spiritual unfaithfulness, idolatry, and moral corruption on a global scale. In biblical prophecy, harlotry often symbolizes turning away from God to worship false gods or embrace worldly systems, as seen in Old Testament prophets like Ezekiel 16 and Hosea.
  • Source of Abominations: The phrase "AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH" reveals that this system is responsible for fostering and perpetuating practices, beliefs, and deeds that are detestable and utterly offensive in God's sight. These are not just moral failings but deeply anti-God actions that defile humanity and the earth.
  • Revealed Truth: The term "MYSTERY" implies that this identity was previously hidden or understood only partially, but is now being revealed by God through John's vision. This divine revelation unveils the true nature of this powerful opposing force.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "MYSTERY" is mysterion (μυστήριον), which in biblical context often refers to a divine truth previously hidden but now disclosed by God. It signifies something that cannot be known by human reason alone but requires divine revelation. The term "BABYLON" itself is a powerful symbol, evoking the ancient city's history of idolatry, pride, and oppression, particularly its role in the exile of God's people. This symbolic use of Babylon is also found in other prophetic books like Isaiah 13 and Jeremiah 50-51, portraying it as the epitome of worldly opposition to God. The phrase "Mother of Harlots" highlights her role as the origin or archetype of spiritual defilement.

Practical Application

While interpretations of "Babylon the Great" vary—from a literal city to a religious system, a political power, or a global economic force—the underlying message remains consistent: God exposes and judges all forms of spiritual corruption and rebellion against His sovereignty. For believers, this verse serves as a powerful reminder to:

  • Discern Spiritual Corruption: Be aware of systems and ideologies that promote idolatry, immorality, and rebellion against God's truth, even if they appear outwardly glorious or powerful.
  • Maintain Purity: Guard against spiritual harlotry by remaining faithful to God alone, avoiding the "abominations of the earth" that defile and corrupt.
  • Trust in God's Justice: Recognize that God sees and will ultimately judge all unrighteousness and corrupt systems. The fall of Babylon is a recurring theme in Revelation, promising divine judgment (Revelation 18:2).
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Revelation 14:8

    And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.

  • Revelation 18:2

    And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.

  • Revelation 17:7

    ¶ And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns.

  • 2 Thessalonians 2:7

    For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth [will let], until he be taken out of the way.

  • Isaiah 3:9

    ¶ The shew of their countenance doth witness against them; and they declare their sin as Sodom, they hide [it] not. Woe unto their soul! for they have rewarded evil unto themselves.

  • 2 Timothy 3:1

    ¶ This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.

  • 2 Timothy 3:5

    Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

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