The Beast of Revelation 17: A Suggestion (Part I)

Abstract

This article focuses on the beast of Rev 17 on which the harlot Babylon rides. It attempts
to contribute to the ongoing debate and seeks to identify the beast. The first
part of the two-part article published here provides an introduction to the discussion
and deals with the literary context of Rev 17, its time frame, and its structure. It argues
that the scarlet beast is a parody of God. Although it has shared elements with
the sea beast, it is not necessarily identical with the sea beast of Rev 13. The beast on
which Babylon sits comes out of the abyss. Since the abyss seems to be connected with
Satan throughout the Book of Revelation, it is suggested the scarlet beast be identified
as Satan working through political powers.

 Key Words: Revelation, beast, Rev 17, scarlet beast, Satan, Babylon, seven heads, ten
horns