Revelation 13:14
And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.
Study Note
Study Note
The second beast's power to deceive 'those who dwell on the earth' by means of signs performed in the presence of the first beast introduces the book's sustained critique of false wonders as instruments of imperial ideology. The command to make an image of the beast recalls Daniel 3's golden statue and the Babylonian demand for universal worship, situating John's audience within a pattern of coerced religious conformity. Most scholars identify the 'wound by a sword' that had healed as a parody of Christ's death and resurrection, suggesting the imperial power mimics divine redemption. The verse has shaped Christian discernment regarding miracles — signs authenticate nothing apart from the source and direction of the allegiance they demand.
Other Translations
And he deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by reason of the signs which it was given him to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast who hath the stroke of the sword and lived.
and it leadeth astray those dwelling on the land, because of the signs that were given it to do before the beast, saying to those dwelling upon the land to make an image to the beast that hath the stroke of the sword and did live,
And those who are on the earth are turned from the true way by him through the signs which he was given power to do before the beast; giving orders to those who are on the earth to make an image to the beast, who was wounded by the sword, and came to life.
Cross References
He feedeth on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is …
And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the …
And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls …
And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should …
And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived …
And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom …
And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there fell a noisome and grievous sore …
And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory …
And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, …
And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, …