ANSWER: The Revelation was written at a time when Christians were suffering extreme persecution at the hands of the Roman Empire. It was written in symbolic language which Christians, being familiar with similar language of the Old Testament, would be able to understand. Their persecutors would not be able to understand. The message of the book is that the church would (and will) overcome any and all persecution, and one day be victorious. Scholars are not always in agreement as to the symbolism of Revelation.

However, it appears that most are in general agreement with the following: The word “seven” denotes that which is perfect or complete. The word “six” denotes that which is sinister. Therefore, a multiple of this number (666) would denote that which is extremely sinister.” “One thousand” years is not literal, but refers to a long, definite period of time. The word “beast” as used in Revelation 11:7 refers to the power of Satan manifested in the Roman government. The word “beast(s)” used in Revelation 4:6-11 is more correctly translated as “living creatures.” The “pit” is a reference to hell. “ Babylon” represents Rome. The “rod of iron” denotes a rule of power and firmness.