ANSWER: No! As we have already studied, the “beast” is symbolic of the Roman Empire . Since the “beast” is the one who gives the mark (Revelation 13:16), it could not possibly mean baptism. Certainly, the “beast” (the Roman Empire) did not command that we be baptized. Christ proclaimed the doctrine of immersion! It is of (came from) Christ! The mark is of (came from) the “beast.” Revelation 13:16 says that the “mark” is received in the “right hand” and the forehead. If one were to adopt the suggestion in the question, he would also erringly have to adopt the position that one could sprinkle the “right hand” in place of immersing the entire body in water! The fact is that the passages in question have nothing whatever to do with baptism!