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BAVEL THE GREAT
MOTHER OF WHORES AND OF
THE EARTH’S OBSCENITIES
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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Revelation 17:1–6.
Here we have a new vision, not as to the matter of it, for that is contemporary with what came under the three last vials; but as to the manner of description, etc. Observe, 1. The invitation given to the apostle to take a view of what was here to be represented: Come hither, and I will show thee the judgment of the great whore, etc., Rev 17:1. This is a name of great infamy. A whore [in this passage] is one that is married, and has been false to her husband's bed, has forsaken the guide of her youth, and broken the covenant of God. She had been a prostitute to the kings of the earth, whom she had intoxicated with the wine of her fornication. 2. The appearance she made: it was gay and gaudy, like such sort of creatures: She was arrayed in purple, and scarlet colour, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls, Rev 17:4. Here were all the allurements of worldly honour and riches, pomp and pride, suited to sensual and worldly minds. 3. Her principal seat and residence - upon the beast that had seven heads and ten horns; that is to say, Rome, the city on seven hills, infamous for idolatry, tyranny, and blasphemy. 4. Her name, which was written on her forehead. It was the custom of impudent harlots to hang out signs, with their names, that all might know what they were. Now in this observe, (1.) She is named from her place of residence - Babylon the great. But, that we might not take it for the old Babylon literally so called, we are told there is a mystery in the name; it is some other great city resembling the old Babylon. (2.) She is named from her infamous way and practice; not only a harlot, but a mother of harlots, breeding up harlots, and nursing and training them up to idolatry, and all sorts of lewdness and wickedness - the parent and nurse of all false religion and filthy conversation. 5. Her diet: she satiated herself with the blood of the saints and martyrs of Jesus. She drank their blood with such greediness that she intoxicated herself with it; it was so pleasant to her that she could not tell when she had had enough of it: she was satiated, but never satisfied.
Historical interpretation
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"There came one of the seven angels, which have the seven bowls, and spake with me, saying, Come, I will show thee the judgment of that great whore who sitteth upon many waters. And I saw the woman drunk with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs." The decrees of that senate are always accomplished against all, contrary to the preaching of the true faith; and now already mercy being cast aside, itself here gave the decree among all nations.
Nor does he want to openly say that the Roman empire must be destroyed, which those who rule it regard as eternal. Therefore, according to the Apocalypse of John, on the forehead of the purple-clad prostitute, the name of blasphemy is written, that is, the eternal Rome. For if he had openly and boldly said that the Antichrist would not come unless the Roman empire was first destroyed, it would have seemed like a just cause for persecution to then arise against the Church in the east.
The writing on the forehead indicates the shamelessness of the fullness of sins and of the confusion of the heart. She is mother because for those cities ruled by her she is the teacher of their spiritual fornication, giving birth to transgressions that are loathsome to God.
And on her forehead was a name written, Mystery, etc. This corruption is immediately shown on the very face to be the nurse of vices, but because it is discerned only by prudent reasoning, being most ornately adorned, it is indicated to be a mystical name.
And it is said to have been "written" also upon "her forehead", as one says in some inscription, who she was; and that it is "Babylon", the "mother of prostitutes", "Babylon" because of the turmoil and confusion in her and the persecutions of the saints; for confusion, as has been said, is signified by the name of Babylon; and "mother" of the fornication and apostasy from God. For how could she not be mother and teacher of the one who persecuted the evangelical word and those who proclaimed it, persuading the nations to adhere to the ancestral deception?
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Summary
Revelation 17:5 unveils the identifying mark of the enigmatic woman, the "great harlot," central to John's apocalyptic vision. This verse reveals the name inscribed on her forehead: "MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH," thereby exposing her true nature as a profound spiritual adversary, the ultimate source of idolatry and moral corruption, whose identity, though once hidden, is now divinely revealed.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is a crucial part of a detailed vision granted to the Apostle John by one of the seven angels bearing the seven bowls of God's wrath, as described in Revelation 17:1. The angel's purpose is to explain the judgment awaiting "the great harlot who is seated on many waters." Prior to Revelation 17:5, John sees this woman arrayed in lavish purple and scarlet, adorned with gold, precious stones, and pearls, holding a golden cup full of abominations. She is depicted riding a terrifying scarlet beast, covered with blasphemous names and possessing seven heads and ten horns, as detailed in Revelation 17:3-4. The inscription on her forehead in verse 5 serves as a definitive identification, revealing her true character and the source of her immense spiritual depravity, setting the stage for her subsequent judgment.
Historical & Cultural Context
The name "Babylon" carries immense historical and symbolic weight. For John's original audience, Babylon immediately evoked the ancient Mesopotamian empire that famously conquered Judah, destroyed Jerusalem, and exiled God's people (as recounted in 2 Kings 25). It was synonymous with idolatry, pride, oppression, and rebellion against God. In the New Testament era, particularly under Roman persecution, "Babylon" became a veiled reference to Rome, the dominant imperial power that oppressed God's people. The practice of branding slaves or prostitutes on the forehead was also known in the ancient world, signifying ownership and public shame. Thus, the name on the harlot's forehead is not merely an identification but a mark of her degraded and condemned status, publicly displaying her true, abominable nature to the world.
Key Themes
Revelation 17:5 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Revelation and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphasizes Symbolic Identity, where "Babylon the Great" transcends a literal city to represent a universal, spiritual system of rebellion against God, encompassing political, economic, and religious opposition. Secondly, the title "Mother of Harlots" highlights Spiritual Harlotry and Idolatry, a recurring biblical metaphor for unfaithfulness to God, seen prominently in Old Testament prophetic books like Ezekiel 16 and Hosea 1-3, where Israel's pursuit of false gods is likened to prostitution. Thirdly, the phrase "Abominations of the Earth" underscores the theme of Profound Corruption and Defilement, indicating that this entity is the source and perpetuator of practices utterly detestable to God. Finally, the term "MYSTERY" signifies Divine Revelation, indicating that this hidden, spiritual reality is now being unveiled by God Himself, exposing the true nature of the forces opposing His kingdom.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term, in biblical usage, does not imply something unknowable, but rather a divine truth that was previously hidden or concealed but is now being revealed by God. It signifies a profound spiritual reality that cannot be discerned through human reason alone but requires supernatural disclosure. In this context, it suggests that the true nature of "Babylon" is not immediately obvious but is a divinely unveiled secret.
Derived from the Hebrew "Babel," meaning "confusion," this name historically refers to the ancient city and empire notorious for its pride, idolatry, and oppression of God's people. In Revelation, "Babylon" serves as a powerful symbol, representing the archetypal worldly system that stands in defiant opposition to God and His kingdom, a type of tyranny that seeks to dominate and corrupt.
This word denotes something detestable, loathsome, or utterly abhorrent, particularly in a religious or moral sense. In the Old Testament, it often refers to idolatrous practices or things that are an affront to God's holiness. Here, it emphasizes that "Babylon" is the source and promoter of practices that are profoundly offensive and defiling in God's sight, especially those linked to spiritual impurity and idolatry.
Verse Breakdown
"And upon her forehead was a name written"
This phrase immediately draws attention to the public and undeniable identification of the woman. In ancient cultures, marks on the forehead could signify ownership (slaves), dedication (priests), or public shame (criminals/prostitutes). Here, it serves as a damning public declaration of her identity and character, indicating that her true nature is openly displayed, even if it is a "mystery" to some.
"MYSTERY"
This single word is profoundly significant. It indicates that the entity represented by "Babylon" is not merely a literal city or empire, but a deeper, spiritual reality. It is a hidden truth about the nature of evil and rebellion against God that is now being unveiled through divine revelation. This "mystery" is unveiled for understanding, not for continued obscurity.
"BABYLON THE GREAT"
This is the core identification. "Babylon" symbolizes the epitome of worldly power, idolatry, and rebellion against God, drawing on its Old Testament history as the oppressor of God's people. The addition of "THE GREAT" emphasizes its immense influence, widespread reach, and magnified wickedness, suggesting a global system of spiritual and moral corruption.
"THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS"
This powerful metaphor identifies "Babylon" as the ultimate source, progenitor, or archetype of all spiritual unfaithfulness. In biblical prophecy, "harlotry" consistently refers to idolatry and turning away from the true God to embrace false gods, worldly systems, or immoral practices. As the "mother," she is the origin point from which all such spiritual defilement springs forth, corrupting nations and individuals.
"AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH"
This final clause further defines the extent of "Babylon's" depravity. She is not only the source of spiritual harlotry but also the origin and promoter of all practices, beliefs, and deeds that are detestable and utterly offensive to God. These "abominations" encompass all forms of idolatry, injustice, violence, and moral corruption that defile humanity and the entire world.
Literary Devices
Revelation 17:5 employs several potent Symbolism devices to convey its message. The "woman" herself is a complex symbol, representing a powerful, corrupt entity. Her "forehead" serves as a symbolic billboard, publicly displaying her true character and condemnation. "Babylon" is a rich symbol, evoking historical oppression and idolatry, but here expanded to represent a universal anti-God system. "Harlots" symbolize spiritual unfaithfulness and idolatry, while "abominations" symbolize practices detestable to God. The phrase "Mother of Harlots" uses Personification to attribute a maternal role to this spiritual entity, emphasizing her role as the origin and nurturer of spiritual corruption. The use of "MYSTERY" creates Irony, as something previously hidden is now overtly displayed on her forehead, making her true nature clear to those with spiritual understanding. The descriptors "THE GREAT" and "THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH" employ Hyperbole to underscore the extreme wickedness, vast influence, and profound depravity of this entity, leaving no doubt as to its comprehensive opposition to God.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Revelation 17:5 profoundly articulates the nature of spiritual opposition to God's kingdom, revealing that behind visible systems of power and wealth often lies a deeper, pervasive spiritual corruption. The identification of "Babylon the Great" as the "Mother of Harlots and Abominations of the Earth" underscores the biblical truth that all forms of idolatry, spiritual unfaithfulness, and moral depravity ultimately stem from a rebellion against the one true God. This verse serves as a stark warning against entanglement with worldly systems that promise prosperity or power but lead to spiritual defilement. It highlights God's sovereign knowledge of all evil, even that which operates under a guise of mystery or splendor, and His unwavering commitment to expose and judge it. The unveiling of "Babylon's" true identity prepares the reader for the detailed account of her ultimate destruction, affirming God's justice and the inevitable triumph of His righteous kingdom over all opposing forces.
Reflection and Application
Revelation 17:5 calls believers to a profound spiritual discernment in a world often characterized by alluring yet corrupt systems. The "mystery" of Babylon, now unveiled, reminds us that evil often operates subtly, cloaked in power, wealth, or even religious guise, making it imperative for us to look beyond superficial appearances. We are challenged to recognize and resist the "harlotry" of our age—any allegiance or devotion that compromises our singular fidelity to Christ. This includes the idolatry of consumerism, the pursuit of worldly power, the embrace of moral relativism, or the compromise with any ideology that undermines God's truth. The "abominations of the earth" are not merely ancient practices but manifest in contemporary injustices, spiritual deceptions, and ethical compromises that defile individuals and societies. Therefore, this verse urges us to cultivate spiritual purity, to stand apart from the corrupting influences of the world, and to live as citizens of God's eternal kingdom, eagerly awaiting His righteous judgment and the establishment of His perfect reign.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Is "Babylon the Great" a specific city like Rome, or a religious system, or something else entirely?
"Babylon the Great" in Revelation 17:5 is best understood as a multi-layered symbol rather than a single, literal entity. While it certainly would have evoked the oppressive Roman Empire for John's first-century audience, its description as "the Mother of Harlots and Abominations of the Earth" points to a far broader, universal principle. It symbolizes any and all systems—political, economic, or religious—that stand in defiant opposition to God, persecute His people, and lead the world into idolatry and moral corruption. It represents the collective spirit of human rebellion against divine authority throughout history, culminating in a final, powerful manifestation before Christ's return. The detailed judgment described in Revelation 18 further illustrates its comprehensive nature as a global force of evil.
What does it mean for Babylon to be "The Mother of Harlots"?
This powerful metaphor signifies that "Babylon the Great" is the ultimate source, progenitor, or archetype of all spiritual unfaithfulness and idolatry. In biblical prophecy, "harlotry" consistently represents turning away from the true God to worship false gods, embrace worldly alliances, or engage in immoral practices that violate one's covenant with God. Prophets like Hosea and Ezekiel frequently used this imagery to describe Israel's apostasy. Therefore, "Mother of Harlots" means that Babylon is the fountainhead from which all forms of spiritual apostasy, idolatry, and moral corruption on earth originate and are propagated. She is the archetype of spiritual impurity and rebellion against God's holiness.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The exposure and judgment of "Mystery, Babylon the Great" in Revelation 17:5 find their ultimate fulfillment and counterpoint in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While Babylon represents the culmination of all human rebellion, idolatry, and spiritual harlotry, Christ is the embodiment of divine faithfulness and purity. He is the one who perfectly fulfilled God's law and offered Himself as the spotless Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, thereby cleansing humanity from the very "abominations" that Babylon promotes. His triumphant return, described in Revelation 19:11-16, depicts Him as the righteous King who will utterly defeat all earthly powers and systems that align with "Babylon," bringing an end to their reign of corruption. In stark contrast to the harlot of Babylon, Christ's bride, the Church, is presented as the pure and faithful New Jerusalem, descending from heaven, adorned for her husband (Revelation 21:2-3). Thus, the fall of Babylon is not merely an act of divine judgment but a glorious testament to the sovereign power and redemptive victory of Christ, who establishes an eternal kingdom of righteousness and truth, free from all spiritual harlotry and abomination.