Revelation 17:11

Authorized King James Version

And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

θηρίον

G2342

the beast

a dangerous animal

ὃ

G3739

that

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

ἦν

G2258

was

i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οὐκ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἐστιν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#10

αὐτὸς

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

#11

ὄγδοός

G3590

the eighth

#12

ἐστιν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

#13

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#14

ἐκ

G1537

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

#15

τῶν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#16

ἑπτά

G2033

the seven

seven

#17

ἐστιν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

#18

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#19

εἰς

G1519

into

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

#20

ἀπώλειαν

G684

perdition

ruin or loss (physical, spiritual or eternal)

#21

ὑπάγει

G5217

goeth

to lead (oneself) under, i.e., withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight), literally or figuratively

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to Revelation. The concept of divine revelation reflects the ultimate establishment of divine rule over creation. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to apocalyptic literature revealing God's ultimate victory, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within imperial persecution under Domitian's demand for emperor worship. The author writes to address persecuted Christians in Asia Minor facing pressure to compromise, making the emphasis on kingdom of God particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address the apparent delay of Christ's return and God's justice, and how should the church respond?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of kingdom of God, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of eschatology and the doctrine of last things?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?