'The Beast'
An Analysis of the Beast of Revelation: Understanding Its Esoteric Symbolism
Though this is not a subject I typically write about, it is one which I possess extensive knowledge of. Given that some individuals within my readership identify as Bible-believing Christians, I deemed it pertinent to bring to light what I view as parallels that might be pertinent to the contemporary circumstances we are witnessing.
An Analysis of the Beast of Revelation: Understanding Its Esoteric Symbolism
Written by Jeff Green
Firstly, it is essential to recognize that the Bible is predominantly shrouded in esoteric symbolism. Within this symbolic framework, there exists hidden doctrines and teachings intended for the adept to comprehend. Fundamentally interpreting these signs and symbols is intended to mislead the non-adept.
Matthew 13:10-13 (NKJV) discusses why Jesus spoke in esoteric parables:
"And the disciples came and said to Him, 'Why do You speak to them in parables?' He answered and said to them, 'Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. Therefore I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand.'"
Parables are esoteric allegories that contain deeper, hidden meanings intended to be understood by those who have the insight or willingness to seek the truth, told under the guise of an exoteric story. While the surface-level story is simple and accessible, the underlying message often requires deep reflection and spiritual discernment. This aligns with the concept of esoteric teachings, which are not immediately apparent and can only be comprehended fully only by those who are prepared or initiated into a deeper understanding of the related symbolism.
Throughout this exposition, I will delineate the imagery and invite readers to discern its potential relevance to contemporary developments or circumstances.
Note: Pay particular attention to the appearance and repetition of specific numbers. I will briefly explain their esoteric significance throughout this exposition.
Note: I am referencing literature that does not necessarily align with my own personal beliefs or perspectives, and I am not advocating for my own views; rather, I am simply illuminating various elements of the literature.
The Lawless One
2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 (NKJV):
"The coming of the lawless one [Antichrist] is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved."
The phrase "among those who perish" refers to those who are deceived and ultimately lost due to their rejection of the truth.
What is the Beast?
The New Testament contains two visions that contain representations of the same eschatological occurrence: one found in the Book of Daniel and the other in the Book of Revelation, attributed to the Apostle John. Both narratives echo a shared symbology and thematic elements.
Daniel 7:3(NKJV):
“And four great beasts came up from the sea, each different from the other.”
Historical and Symbolic Representation:
Sequential Stages: The four beasts are commonly viewed as symbols of successive empires or kingdoms: Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome and its successors. Each beast represents a different historical period or power. However, the vision also implies that these successive empires share a common nature or trajectory, indicating that they are part of a larger, unified narrative of human history and its conflicts.
Evolution of Power: The fourth beast, described as “dreadful and terrible,” is seen as encompassing the traits of the previous beasts but in a more intensified form. It’s often interpreted as representing the Roman Empire and its later manifestations, including the concept of the Antichrist or a future tyrannical power.
Daniel 7:8 (NKJV):
Verse 7: "After this I saw in the night visions, and behold, a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, exceedingly strong. It had huge iron teeth; it was devouring, breaking in pieces, and trampling the residue with its feet. It was different from all the beasts that were before it, and it had ten horns."
Verse 8: "I was considering the horns, and there was another horn, a little one, coming up among them, before which three of the first horns were plucked out by the roots. And there, in this horn, were eyes like the eyes of a man, and a mouth speaking pompous words."
Daniel 7:8 refers to the "little horn" that arises among the ten horns of the fourth beast in Daniel's vision. This vision describes a series of beasts representing successive empires or kingdoms. The "little horn" is often interpreted as a symbol of a powerful and boastful ruler or leader who emerges from one of these empires.
The "little horn" is a symbol of a future antichrist figure who will arise from a coalition of nations or a significant world power, challenging and opposing the existing world order. This little horn is characterized by its blasphemous speech and its rise to power by uprooting three of the other horns, indicating its dominance over other rulers.
In the context of the broader vision in Daniel 7, the fourth beast is associated with a final, powerful empire, and the "little horn" represents a particularly arrogant and blasphemous figure that arises from within this empire.
Daniel’s Vision summary:
The four beasts in Daniel 7 symbolize successive empires or kingdoms, with the fourth beast representing a final, powerful empire with ten horns. The "little horn"—the Antichrist— arises from among the ten horns of the fourth beast in Daniel's vision. It is characterized by its boastfulness and power, and it displaces three of the original ten horns. The "little horn" is often interpreted as representing a significant end-times ruler that emerges from within the framework of the fourth beast's domain.
The little horn is not considered the Antichrist until he gains power within the context of the fourth beast system.
Understanding the Little Horn and the Antichrist:
In the prophetic vision of Daniel 7, the fourth beast's horn configuration undergoes a significant change from the other beasts due to the emergence of the little horn.
This little horn is described as a significant and final ruler who arises during the latter phase of the fourth beast's power, who is described as a man, “And there, in this horn, were eyes like the eyes of a man, and a mouth speaking pompous words.”
Initially, the little horn does not have power but grows to become a prominent and oppressive figure.
Daniel 8:10: “And it grew up to the host of heaven; and it cast down some of the host and some of the stars to the ground, and trampled them.”
“And it grew up to the host of heaven.” In a broader sense, this phrase can represent the divine order or the people of God.
Stars: In biblical symbolism, stars often represent angels or leaders.
In this context, the little horn is not considered the Antichrist in its early stages but becomes identified as such when it fulfills its role as a tyrannical and deceptive ruler during the final phase of the beast system.
Before the Antichrist takes full power, the Bible indicates a period of deception and manipulation that sets the stage for his rise.
Here’s how this period is described:
Pre-Reign Deception and Preparation:
Rising to Power:
Daniel 8:23-25 (NKJV): “And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors have reached their fullness, a king shall arise, having fierce features, who understands sinister schemes. His power shall be mighty, but not by his own power; he shall destroy fearfully, and shall prosper and thrive; he shall destroy the mighty, and also the holy people. Through his cunning he shall cause deceit to prosper under his rule; and he shall exalt himself in his heart. He shall destroy many in their prosperity. He shall even rise against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without human means.”
This passage describes a king who uses cunning and deceit to rise to power, indicating that his ascent involves manipulation and subterfuge.
The power of the Antichrist may appear formidable and authoritative, but it is derived from deceit and manipulation rather than genuine or legitimate sources. This external source of power adds to the deception and allure of his persona.
In many traditional Christian interpretations, the Antichrist is often seen as a deceptive figure who may not fully recognize his own role. The focus is on his actions and influence rather than his self-awareness. According to this view, the Antichrist operates under the guise of a benevolent leader or savior while pursuing destructive goals.
“Not by his own power” The phrase implies that his rise to power involves the support and manipulation by other powerful figures or entities, rather than his own inherent capabilities. This support could be political, economic, or military, orchestrated to facilitate his rise.
Continuity and Evolution:
Roman Empire as a Base: Many interpretations see the fourth beast as representing the Roman Empire due to its historical significance and impact. However, the verses clearly state that this beast is unlike any that preceded it, representing a continuation of the most powerful empire at that time—Rome. Thus, the concept that the fourth beast represents a more dominant force than the others implies a progression or extension of the Roman Empire, evolving into a future, more formidable empire.
America is often regarded as a continuation of the Roman Empire, embodying many of its aspects. Given that the visions described in these verses refer to a "latter time," it suggests that the entity represented is not Rome itself, but rather a more powerful manifestation of its form. The text indicates that the fourth beast surpasses all preceding beasts, including Rome, in terms of its power and influence.
Daniel 11:20-21 (NKJV)
The succession of rulers leading to the Antichrist.
Verse 20: “There shall arise in his place one who imposes taxes on the glorious kingdom; but within a few days he shall be destroyed, but not in anger or in battle.”
Verse 21: “And in his place shall arise a vile person, to whom they will not give the honor of royalty; but he shall come in peaceably, and seize the kingdom by intrigue."
Daniel 11:21 describes a ruler who is characterized as "vile" and who seizes power through deceit rather than through traditional means of honor or military might. This verse is generally interpreted to refer to a specific figure who rises to power through cunning and treachery.
Replacement of a Previous Leader: The phrase “in his place” signifies that the vile person will come into power following the departure or downfall of another leader. This implies a transition in leadership where the current or previous ruler is replaced by someone new.
In biblical prophetic literature, phrases like “a few days” often have symbolic meanings rather than being strictly literal. Scholars interpret the phrase as symbolic for a short, significant period of change or turmoil, reflecting the rapid shifts in power described in the text.
Notes:
Beasts: Daniel 7 describes four beasts representing successive empires or kingdoms, with the fourth beast being the most fearsome and having ten horns.
Fourth Beast: The fourth beast, with its ten horns, is often interpreted as a powerful empire or system that will have ten significant leaders.
The first beast in Revelation 13 can be seen as connected to or representing an earlier form of the fourth beast in Daniel 7.
Revelation 13:1 (NKJV):
The First Beast Appears
"Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name."
“Sea”
In biblical symbolism, the "sea" often represents chaotic forces, nations, or peoples. This symbolism is rooted in various biblical passages and is used in prophetic literature, including the Book of Revelation, to convey deeper meanings about human societies and political powers.
Psalm 65:7: "You who still the noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the peoples."
In ancient Near Eastern literature and mythology, the sea often represented chaotic and untamed forces that were subdued by deities to bring about order. This concept is reflected in biblical symbolism, where the sea represents chaotic, tumultuous elements that are under divine sovereignty or that give rise to significant powers.This verse introduces the first beast, which is a central figure in the apocalyptic visions of Revelation, symbolizing a powerful and blasphemous political entity arising from chaotic and tumultuous conditions.
Many theologians and biblical scholars argue that the first beast in Revelation is an earlier phase embodiment of the fourth beast described in Daniel, representing a culmination of anti-God powers and empires which appears as a vision as time progresses during the tribulations.
In terms of sequence, the fourth beast in Daniel precedes the first beast in Revelation. However, Revelation builds upon and extends the imagery from Daniel, depicting a final and encompassing representation of power that incorporates the earlier empires described by Daniel. This continuity underscores the development from historical empires to the final end-times power structure.
Revelation 13:2 (NKJV)
"Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority."
The first beast in Revelation 13 has a mouth like a lion, among other features. This beast is often seen as a symbol of a powerful end-times empire, drawing on imagery from earlier prophetic visions, including those in Daniel.
Daniel 7:1-8 describes the vision of four great beasts coming out of the sea, each different from the others. These beasts are traditionally interpreted as four successive empires.
Historical Context and Symbolism:
First Beast (Lion with Eagle’s Wings): This is often associated with Babylon, particularly because the lion and eagle imagery is used elsewhere in the Bible to describe Babylon (Jeremiah 4:7, Ezekiel 17:3). The wings being plucked and the beast standing on two feet could symbolize the humbling and eventual fall of Babylon.
Second Beast (Bear): This is typically associated with the Medo-Persian Empire. The bear raised up on one side is thought to symbolize the dominance of the Persians over the Medes, and the three ribs in its mouth are interpreted as the three major conquests: Lydia, Babylon, and Egypt.
Third Beast (Leopard with Four Wings and Four Heads): This is linked to the Greek Empire, specifically under Alexander the Great. The four wings suggest rapid conquest, and the four heads are interpreted as the division of Alexander’s empire into four parts after his death.
Fourth Beast (Terrifying and Powerful, with Ten Horns): This is associated with the successor of the Roman Empire due to its unmatched strength and dominion. The ten horns are often seen as the ten most powerful future rulers that arise from this empire.
The beasts in Daniel represent successive historical empires, each contributing to the development of a final oppressive system.
Revelation 13:3 (NKJV):
(Appears to be mirroring events of July 13, 2024.)
"And I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the world marveled and followed the beast."
Revelation 13:3 describes a significant event involving the first beast from John's vision.
Description of Revelation 13:3:
1. Mortal Wound:
"And I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded": This phrase describes an apparent severe injury to one of the beast's seven heads. The use of "mortal wound" suggests that the injury appeared to be fatal or devastating.
2. Healing of the Wound:
"And his deadly wound was healed": The injury that seemed to be fatal is miraculously healed. This healing is a key element that enhances the beast’s perceived power and authority, making it appear almost invincible or supernaturally resilient.
3. Worldwide Marvel and Followership:
"And all the world marveled and followed the beast": The recovery from the mortal wound causes amazement. People are astonished by this apparent miracle, leading them to worship and follow the beast.
Significance:
Symbolism of the Wound and Healing:
The mortal wound and its healing symbolize a dramatic, apparently supernatural event. This is often interpreted as a false miracle or sign that deceives people into worshipping the beast.
The healing of the wound symbolizes a revival of a powerful but previously weakened authority, reinforcing the beast's dominance and credibility.
Impact on the World:
The global reaction—marveling and following the beast—reflects the beast's significant influence and the effectiveness of its deception. This event plays a crucial role in establishing the beast's authority and driving people to worship it.
Contrast with Divine Authority:
The miraculous healing contrasts with divine acts of power, showing the beast's ability to mimic or counterfeit divine authority. It emphasizes the beast’s role as an antichrist figure, misleading people away from true worship of God.
The specific head of the beast mentioned in Revelation 13:3 is not individually identified by name or number in the text. However, the reference to one of the beast's seven heads being mortally wounded and then healed has several layers of symbolic and interpretive significance, including duality:
The event of the wounded head symbolizes a significant ruler or figure whose power seemed to be critically damaged or who faced a major defeat but later experienced a revival or recovery, who was perceived as nearly defeated but returned to power, demonstrating resilience and continuing influence. In this context, the beast can be seen as a person or ruler associated with an empire or significant power.
The wounded head represents the rise of the Antichrist whose apparent fatal injury is followed by a miraculous recovery. This recovery enhances the Antichrist’s authority and credibility, contributing to the overall narrative of deception and control. The healing of the wound symbolizes the Antichrist’s ability to overcome what appeared to be a fatal blow, thus reinforcing his role and power.
Scholar Notes:
In Revelation (Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament), Grant R. Osborne writes:
In Four Views on the Book of Revelation, C. Marvin Pate writes:
The beast’s description lends itself somewhat to seeing it as an aggregate of world empires, but the unified personal qualities of the beast determine that he must be a personal figure who heads such an empire. His number is that of a man (13:18). He is identified with one of his slain heads (13:3, 6), who is a travesty of the slain Lamb. Both have followers with their leader’s name on their foreheads (13:16-17; 14:1). Both have horns (5:6; 13:1). Both rise after being slain (13:3, 8) to new life and authority over the whole world (1:5; 7:9; 13:7; 17:12). Because chapter 13 continues the description of chapter 12, this beast has to be a malevolent person who will embody satanic forces in controlling the final world empire—probably a revived form of the Roman empire of the past—in the role of a counterfeit Christ, who will deceive earth’s inhabitants.
An alternative to this literal interpretation of the text’s symbolism has offered the Roman empire as the beast’s identity, a view that usually connects the seven hills of 17:9 with the Roman empire. Rome, of course, was the immediate oppressor in John’s exile on Patmos. The Rome view identifies the wounded head as Nero Caesar (13:3) and explains the number 666 in 13:18 as the number of his name. A problem with this approach is that no phase of the Roman empire of the past can fully satisfy the textual criteria regarding the beast. More obviously, the beast is not just an empire, as the description of 13:38 clearly shows; rather, it is a created person. Besides this, he belongs to the future, not to the past.
Four Views on the Book of Revelation by C. Marvin Pate
Note: In the context of Revelation and other apocalyptic literature, horns are metaphorical symbols rather than physical objects. They are used to represent concepts such as power, authority, and rule.
Short Summary Notes:
First Beast in Revelation 13
Revelation 13:1 (NKJV):
Description: The first beast rising from the sea has seven heads and ten horns [symbolic]. This beast is often interpreted as representing a powerful, end-times empire or a symbol of a global system of authority, of which the Antichrist emerges from this system.
Head Wound:
Revelation 13:3 (NKJV): One of the seven heads of this beast, called the “little horn”, who is the Antichrist, suffers a mortal wound that is miraculously healed, leading to widespread amazement and followership.
Revelation 13:14 (NKJV)
The False Prophet Appears - The Second Beast
"And he [the false prophet] deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast, telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by the sword and lived."
In Revelation 13:14, the "sword" refers to a symbol of violence or mortal wounding.
Context of the Verse:
Wounded by the Sword: The first beast is described as having been wounded by a sword and yet living. As previously mentioned, this suggests a seemingly fatal injury that was miraculously survived. This imagery is used to emphasize the beast's apparent resilience and supernatural power, which contributes to the deception and admiration it commands.
In this context, the word "sword" serves as a metaphor for a severe, potentially fatal attack, regardless of the specific weapon or means. This metaphor emphasizes the beast's miraculous recovery and the subsequent awe and deception it inspires among people.
Scholar Note:
“This second beast becomes a member of the false trinity in 16:13, where he is labeled “the false prophet” (see also 19:20; 20:10). His task is to perform the counterfeit miracles that cause the world of unbelievers to worship and follow the dragon and the beast from the sea (13:13-15; 16:14). While the first beast [Antichrist] has a more military function (conquering the saints and taking over the world), this one has a more religious function, deceiving the world into worshiping the Antichrist. Michaels (1997:164) relates the relationship to “the state and a state church. The beast from the sea is a secular political power, while the beast from the earth is a religious institution fostering worship of the first beast.”
Revelation (Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament) by Grant R. Osborne
Two Beasts:
First Beast (from the Sea): Represents a secular political power or empire. This beast is associated with political dominance. The Antichrist arises from this system.
Second Beast (from the Earth): Rises from a religious system or institution. He represents a religious or ideological power that supports the political authority of the first beast. This beast’s role is to lead people to worship the first beast—the political power he represents including his persona, the Antichrist.
Matthew 24:24 (NKJV):
"For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect."
“Even The Elect”:
The term "elect" refers to those who are chosen or favored by God. Despite their strong faith, even they are at risk of being deceived by these false figures if they are not vigilant.
The Antichrist in Revelation is depicted as a deceiver who performs signs and wonders to mislead people, including the elect. This is in line with the warnings found in Matthew 24:24 by Jesus.
The signs and wonders performed by the Antichrist as described in Revelation can be understood as actions or phenomena designed to captivate and manipulate public perception, thereby consolidating power and misleading the populace.
The numerology of ‘24:24’:
The Book of Revelation mentions 24 elders seated around the throne of God, dressed in white and wearing golden crowns.
This is found in Revelation 4:4 (NKJV):
"Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and on the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white robes; and they had crowns of gold on their heads."
The number 24, symbolizing completeness or divine order (as with the 24 elders), contrasts with the chaos and deception described in Matthew 24:24. This highlights the tension between God's orderly plan and the disruptive efforts of false prophets.
In biblical numerology, the repetition of numbers can amplify their symbolic meanings. The number 24 itself symbolizes completeness, divine order, and the fullness of God's people. When considering Matthew 24:24, the doubling of 24 (24:24) can emphasize these attributes more strongly.
The crowns of the beast in Revelation can be seen as a mimicry or parody of the crowns of the 24 elders, symbolizing a counterfeit or opposing power to the divine authority represented by the elders.
The crowns (diadems) on the beast's horns symbolize political power and authority. These crowns are linked to the beast's oppressive and blasphemous rule.
The repetition of 24 in 24:24 can signify an intensified sense of completeness and divine order. This also conveys that the events described in Matthew 24:24, such as the rise of false christs and false prophets, occur within the context of God's sovereign plan, which is perfectly ordered and complete. Indeed, Revelation describes how God permits the Beast's influence as a test of the people's faith.
The crowns on the beast in Revelation are widely interpreted by scholars as a symbolic parody of the crowns of the 24 elders, representing a counterfeit and opposing power to divine authority. This interpretation highlights the beast's role in the narrative as a blasphemous and deceptive force that seeks to undermine and mimic the true divine order established by God.
Endurance and Overcoming - Sovereign Plan:
Revelation 3:10 (NKJV): "Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth."
This passage directly indicates that a period of trial is meant to test those on earth, implying that the events described in Revelation, including the rise of the beast, are part of this testing.
Revelation 13:18 (NKJV):
The Number of a Man
"Here is wisdom: Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666."
Pay particular attention to the numerology of this verse: 13 and 18. The number 18 can be seen as significant because it is the sum of three sixes (6x3/6+6+6=18), which is also associated with the number of the beast in the same verse. Additionally, the number 13 holds esoteric significance in various mystical traditions and is frequently encountered in occult symbolism. The number 13 in the Bible is often associated with rebellion, apostasy, and disorder.
In the context of Revelation, verse 13:18 specifically references the number 666 as the "number of the beast," and that the beast is “the number of a man,” indicating the beast is indeed a man—both in the verse numbers configuration, and in the text of the verse itself—thus, highlighting the importance of numerical symbolism in the text by using repeating numerology.
Significance of the Verse:
Identification of the Antichrist:
The number 666 from Revelation 13 is linked to the Antichrist, who is associated with the fourth beast. This number is described as "the number of a man," indicating a specific human individual.
The number 666 symbolizes imperfection and opposition to divine perfection. It represents the flawed nature of unrefined humanity and the Antichrist, who embodies lawlessness, resistance to spiritual truths, and divine order.
The number 7 is often used in the Bible to represent divine completeness and perfection, contrasting with the number 666, which symbolizes imperfection of unrefined man.
Scholar Note:“As “bestial” as this figure is, he is clearly identified as a human being. “In general, more attention is given to the ‘riddle’ of this number than to the fact that it is ‘a human number,’” Berkouwer says. “In other words, that all the subhumanity of the beast is still human, proceeding from among men, and setting itself up over against God and men.”
Kenneth L. Gentry Jr., who has written extensively regarding the dating of the book of Revelation, has also written an entire monograph concerning the identity of the beast. Gentry concurs with Berkouwer that the beast whose number is 666 is a man, which excludes demonic beings, philosophical systems, political movements or empires, or anything other than a specific, individual, human person.Gentry adds that, since the beast possesses great “authority” (Rev. 13:5, 7) and wears ten crowns on his head (Rev. 13:1), he must be a political figure.”
The Last Days According to Jesus by R.C. Sproul
Equilateral Triangle and the Ancient Esoteric Origins of ‘666’:
Angles of an Equilateral Triangle:
Each angle in an equilateral triangle measures 60 degrees.
Therefore, the triangle has three angles of 60 degrees each: 60°, 60°, and 60°.
Symbolic Representation:
When written in a symbolic form, it can be expressed as 60-60-60.
In esoteric symbology, this is seen as representing the number 666, where each "6" corresponds to an angle of 60 degrees.
Quest for Refinement vs. Imperfection:
Note: I am referencing literature that does not necessarily align with my own personal beliefs or perspectives, and I am not advocating for my own views; rather, I am simply illuminating various elements of the literature.
Both Freemasonry and Christian eschatology recognize a similar symbolic representation of imperfection and the quest for refinement. The equilateral triangle in Freemasonry symbolizes the ongoing pursuit of personal and spiritual growth, acknowledging that while it represents important ideals, it is not a perfect symbol.
Similarly, 666 in Christian eschatology reflects the flawed nature of unrefined man, and by extension, the Antichrist that needs to be overcome
Both the pyramid/triangle and the number 666 symbolize imperfection and the need for refinement. The triangle represents the pursuit of balance and spiritual growth, acknowledging its own limitations. Similarly, 666 represents the imperfection of unrefined man and his resultant world, contrasting with divine completeness.
Equilateral Triangle: In Freemasonry, the equilateral triangle symbolizes balance, harmony, and the pursuit of moral and spiritual refinement. It represents the ideal of a well-balanced and virtuous life but is recognized as an imperfect symbol in the sense that it is a tool rather than a final or complete representation of spiritual truth.
Refinement and Overcoming Imperfection:
In Freemasonry, the pursuit of refinement constitutes a continuous journey towards elevated principles. Likewise, within Christian eschatology, surpassing the flaws denoted by 666 necessitates addressing and transcending mere physicality to attain spiritual enlightenment.
Likewise, the pyramid on the one-dollar bill is incomplete, with 13 layers, representing the 13 colonies of the US, at least exoterically speaking. Its esoteric meaning symbolizes the generative force, represented by the phallus of Osiris. According to the Osiris myth, Osiris's body was cut into 14 pieces, with his phallus thrown into the Nile, where it was swallowed by a fish. Within these tales is embedded the doctrine of the ‘Mystery Schools’, concealed behind symbolic language that is intended to be understood only by the initiated adept. This exposition will not delve into great detail on this matter.
This imagery, in exoteric terms, is a symbolic representation of the nation's foundation and its growth. This is often interpreted as symbolizing the ongoing nature of growth, development, and the pursuit of ideals. It suggests that the ‘Great Work’ of building and refining the nation and world, and the quest for the enlightenment and illumination of mankind, is not yet complete—that too, this nation is an experiment to test the willingness of man to be free beings.
Combining the letters MDCCLXXVI, represented by the Roman numerals, equals 1776. However, duality is a common theme in Freemasonry, and thus, they also represent another number.
Taken in groups of three numerals, they equal the following:
MDC = 1600
CLX = 160
XVI = 16
Thus, the result with the 1s and 0s deducted, equals ‘666’.
The Latin phrase "Novus Ordo Seclorum" translates to "New Order of the Ages" or "New World Order."
The Latin phrase "Annuit Coeptis" translates to "He (or It) Has Approved Our Undertakings" or "He (or It) Has Favored Our Beginnings."
The imagery of growth, such as the flourishing vegetation emerging from the front of the pyramid, represents vitality, and progress of the Great Work—the refinement of mankind.
The barren or desert-like background contrasts with the vibrant imagery associated with the pyramid. It symbolizes the state of the world before the establishment of the new order.
The Symbolism of the Sun:
In Freemasonic and other esoteric traditions, the sun symbolizes the light of knowledge and wisdom, or intellect. It reflects the pursuit of enlightenment and the quest for knowledge, understanding, and higher intellect.
The Eye of Horus, as used by Freemasons, and seen on the one-dollar bill in front of the sun, is a significant symbol in ancient Egyptian mythology and esoteric traditions, and it is associated with the sun and intellect, and the other symbology I noted in the above point.
This does not imply that the sun itself is worshipped, but rather, the sun is merely the symbol of light and knowledge used to convey deeper esoteric meanings.
The Bible writes about this ancient form of Freemasonry which uses the sun as a symbol in their doctrine.
Ezekiel 8:16-17 (NKJV):
“So He brought me into the inner court of the Lord’s house; and there, at the door of the temple of the Lord, between the porch and the altar, were about twenty-five men with their backs toward the temple of the Lord and their faces toward the east; and they were worshiping the sun toward the east. And He said to me, ‘Have you seen this, O son of man? Is it a trivial thing to the house of Judah to commit the abominations which they commit here? For they have filled the land with violence; then they have returned to provoke Me to anger; indeed they put the branch to their nose.’”
Final Summary:
The Beast as a System:
The beast in Revelation 13 represents a broader political, religious, or socio-economic system. This system encompasses various forms of power and governance that stand in opposition to God's kingdom.
This beast takes on various forms throughout history, showing evolution and change. The beast is a system which appears to permeate throughout history as a spiritual force within humanity, culminating in various empires.
Reference: G.K. Beale, The Book of Revelation: A Commentary on the Greek Text
Note: The 'kingdom' represents the symbolic embodiment of ultimate truth.
See: Luke 17:21 (NKJV):
“Nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.”
The Head and Horns:
The seven heads of the beast each symbolize a kingdom that contributes to the system’s power.
The ten horns symbolize individual kings or leaders who derive their authority from the beast (the system).
The Little Horn:
The "little horn" is a specific individual within this system, which refers to the Antichrist. This figure arises from among the ten horns, indicating a prominent and influential role.
Antichrist as the Little Horn of the Beast:
Numerous scholars and theologians posit that the "little horn" depicted in the Book of Daniel and part of the beast described in the Book of Revelation are, in essence, is a singular eschatological human entity that does the bidding of the beast’s system of power. His number is the number of a man (666).
The ‘little horn’ is identified within theological discourse as the Antichrist. The Antichrist is envisioned as a formidable leader who is destined to ascend to a position of significant influence, employing deception to garner widespread allegiance while actively opposing divine authority, likely without his own full knowledge or comprehension.The beast and Antichrist denote entities that emerge at a future juncture, significantly beyond the temporal context of John's Revelation. Scholarly interpretations frequently emphasize that their anticipated manifestation is not confined to the historical period during which the Revelation was penned but is projected into a future epoch, wherein they will play pivotal roles in the culmination of end-times events.
Head Wound - Miraculous Healing and Deception:
Revelation 13:3 describes one of the heads appearing to suffer an apparent mortal wound but then being healed. This ‘miraculous’ recovery leads to widespread amazement and followership, emphasizing the deceptive and influential power of the system and its leaders.
This healing symbolizes a counterfeit resurrection, designed to mimic Christ's resurrection and deceive the world into following the beast. This imitation serves to create a false sense of legitimacy and power, drawing people toward the beast's agenda. By mimicking Christ's resurrection, the beast aims to gain the world's admiration and allegiance, through the beast’s agent—the Antichrist—presenting himself as a savior or messianic figure. This deception is a key tactic in undermining genuine spiritual truth, leading people astray by offering a superficial semblance of divine power and authority.
In Revelation 13:5-8, it is explicitly stated that God allows the beast to wield significant influence over the people, which serves as a test. The passage describes how the beast is given authority to exercise power over people, language, and nation. This period of authority and influence is granted to test the true nature of people's faith and commitment.
God's permission for the beast's influence is a divine allowance for the sake of testing and revealing the depth of believers' devotion and if they are vessels of true understanding of the principles of Christ.
Final Notes:The Antichrist is allowed 3.5 years of reign:
During the three and a half years of power (forty-two months) described in Revelation 13:5-7, the Antichrist is depicted as ruling a tyrannical kingdom. This period is characterized by severe persecution and oppression.
The Antichrist's reign is marked by a significant centralization of power, authoritarian governance, and aggressive opposition to those who refuse to conform to his demands. This period is one of great tribulation and trial for those who oppose him.The Antichrist might present his rule as promoting freedom, autonomy, or reforms that appear beneficial. This facade could be used to gain support and acceptance from people who are initially skeptical or resistant.
The centralized power is often framed within the context of a false-christ theocracy. The Antichrist or beast sets himself up as a messianic figure, demanding worship and loyalty while persecuting those who refuse to comply. This rule is characterized by a blend of religious and political control, where the Antichrist positions himself as a god-like figure.
The deception lies in the contrast between the apparent and actual nature of the rule. While it might initially seem like a form of liberation or new order, the true aim is to establish a totalitarian regime with absolute authority.
Notes on the Role of the False Prophet:
The false prophet is depicted as coming from a background that resembles Christian values or appearances. He is described as having two horns like a lamb but speaking like a dragon, indicating a deceptive, outward appearance of Christianity while embodying malevolent intentions—“Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon.” - Revelation 13:11
This aligns with the idea that the Antichrist's regime might initially present itself in a favorable light.The false prophet performs miraculous signs and acts as a spokesperson for the Antichrist (part of the beast). His role is to lead people to worship this individual and the system it represents and accept its authority, which involves promoting the false christ’s agenda and claims (Revelation 13:12-14).
The false prophet’s role is to deceive and mislead people into accepting the false christ, masking the true nature of the beast’s rule with a veneer of religious legitimacy. This deception includes promoting a theocratic system that appears to be divinely ordained but is, in reality, an oppressive and idolatrous regime.
Written by Jeff Green