Why is Revelation Full of Symbols?

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This excerpt was taken from Dr. Jeremiah’s study of the major players in Bible prophecy called Agents of the Apocalypse. Learn more here.

Revelation is a book of symbols, some representing people. In the first chapter, Jesus is seen as a judge with a two-edged sword coming out of His mouth. Later, the Antichrist is presented as a beast; the great religious system is described as Babylon the Great.

Another important and repetitive symbol is the use of numbers, not the least of which is the ominous mark of the beast, 666. Numbers are forms of symbols, and the number seven, which is called the perfect number, is used fifty-four times in Revelation. John uses the symbolic seven in many places—seven churches, seven spirits, seven candlesticks, seven stars, seven lamps, seven seals, seven horns, seven eyes, seven angels, seven trumpets, seven thunders, seven heads, seven crowns, and others. Symbolically, the number seven stands for completeness.

Why is there so much symbolism in the book of Revelation? Symbolism is not weakened by time. John was able to draw the great images in God’s revelation and write them into an exciting drama; symbols can stand the test of the years without relating to one particular era or culture. Symbols also impart values and arouse emotions. How much more graphic it is to speak of “beasts” instead of “dictators.” There is more color in referring to “Babylon the Great” than the “world system.” If our emotions are not aroused by some of the words used as symbols, we should have our red blood cell count taken.

The symbols in Revelation are not meant to confuse but to reveal truth in a powerful and timeless way. They help communicate the seriousness of what is to come and show that God has a clear and detailed plan for the future.

The symbols in Revelation are not meant to confuse but to reveal truth in a powerful and timeless way.

Dr. Jeremiah’s verse-by-verse study of the book of Revelation is available today for further study. Learn more about Escape the Coming Night here.