Revelation 9:8
And they had hair as the hair of women, and their teeth were as the teeth of lions.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εἶχον
they had
G2192
εἶχον
they had
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
2 of 13
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
4 of 13
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτῶν
their
G846
αὐτῶν
their
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
10 of 13
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
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
11 of 13
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
Historical Context
Long hair in ancient cultures could signify glory or seduction, while lions represented both royalty and predatory danger. The mixed metaphor would communicate that these judgment agents combined deceptive allure with lethal power—an apt description of false teachings that seem wise but devour faith. Gnostic heresies often promised enlightenment while leading to spiritual death.
Questions for Reflection
- How do cultural forces today combine attractive presentation (hair) with destructive teaching (teeth)?
- What discernment do you need to recognize when appealing ideas or movements contain deadly spiritual error?
Analysis & Commentary
Women's hair suggests seductive deception, while lion's teeth indicate destructive power. This combination warns against underestimating spiritual threats that appear attractive but destroy. The imagery recalls Joel 1:6's description of locusts. Reformed theology recognizes that Satan's tactics blend deception (appearing beautiful) with destruction (concealing deadly intent). The detailed description emphasizes that judgment encompasses both seduction from truth and penalty for unbelief. Believers must discern that what culture finds attractive often masks demonic deception.