The Revelation of John 13

¹ And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.

² And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.

³ And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.

⁴ And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?

⁵ And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.

⁶ And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.

⁷ And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

⁸ And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

⁹ If any man have an ear, let him hear.

¹⁰ He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.

¹¹ And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.

¹² And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.

¹³ And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men,

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.

¹⁵ And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.

¹⁶ And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:

¹⁷ And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

¹⁸ Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.

Similarities with Daniel 7

The beast described in Revelation 13 bears many similarities to the four beasts in Daniel 7. In fact, this beast seems to be a synthesis of all the previous empires that rose up against God and His Anointed One. It symbolizes an ideological and religious continuity, not just a political one, that originates in the structure of Babylon but culminates in the globalized religious form of the end times.

The beast from Revelation 13 borrows elements from Daniel 7:

• The leopard (Daniel 7:6) – cunning, strategic intelligence (the Greek Empire and its philosophy).
• The bear (Daniel 7:5) – authoritarian power and control structures (Medo-Persia).
• The lion (Daniel 7:4) – royal and religious authority (Babylon).
• The fourth beast (Daniel 7:7) – a terrifying beast with ten horns (the pagan Roman Empire).
• Ten horns – Revelation 13:1 explicitly mentions them, corresponding to those in Daniel 7:7, interpreted as a set of political-military authorities supporting the beast's ideology.
• Blasphemies and limited power – In both Daniel 7:8, 25 and Revelation 13:5-6, the beast utters blasphemies and has a limited period of authority (42 months = 1260 years).
• Persecution of the saints – The beast fights against the faithful remnant and temporarily overcomes them (Daniel 7:21, Revelation 13:7).
• Global authority – Revelation 13:7 emphasizes that the beast has global, not just regional, influence.
• Final judgment – As in Daniel 7, where the beast is destroyed by the "Ancient of Days," in Revelation 19 the beast is thrown into the lake of fire.

What does the "mortal wound" that was healed mean?

The mortal wound is not simply a political interruption of the Roman Empire, but an ideological and spiritual blow received by the beast at the moment of the birth of the child in Revelation 12 – the Anointed One, the Messiah, Jesus Christ. This wound was caused by the Truth and the Sword of the Word – the “sword from the mouth” of the Anointed – which publicly exposed and condemned the false religious system (apostate Judaism) and its alliance with imperial Rome. It is a wound dealt to an ideological head, not a political structure.

The beast had been used by the Dragon to stop the birth and mission of the Anointed One, but instead of eliminating Him, the Anointed was “caught up to God’s throne” (Rev. 12:5), and the Beast thus received a mortal blow – spiritual, ideological, prophetic. The whole earth marveled at the mortal wound, but it was healed, not by military restoration, but by theological and philosophical syncretism.

When was the wound healed?

The wound was healed through the preaching of a different “gospel,” not from the twelve disciples, but from Paul, who claimed to have received a direct revelation. This gospel was not a continuation of the Anointed One’s teaching, but a reinterpretation of His identity, blending Jewish ideas, Greek philosophical elements, and eschatological visions. This made possible the conversion of the Roman Empire – not to the message of the Anointed, but to a syncretic version of it, which allowed religion to settle upon the structure of the empire.

Thus, the woman who appears riding the beast in Revelation 17 is not a new entity, but the product of this healing. She mounts the beast during the healing period, not later. She is the apostate church, theologically formed through Paul’s Gospel, which provides the beast with a new religious foundation and theological justification. This woman is the “city” that reigns over the kings of the earth – Rome – not just as a location, but as an organized religious ideology.

"It Was Given a Mouth"

After the woman (the religious system formed through Pauline syncretism) became established on the beast, at a certain point, the beast also receives an official mouth—meaning a visible and centralized representative of religious authority: the Papacy. The year 538 AD is a key moment in the rise of papal power, because it marks the official recognition of the Pope as the head of the Catholic Church worldwide, thereby solidifying both religious and political influence. The events leading to this status include:

• The Edict of Justinian in 533 AD
  • The Byzantine Emperor Justinian I issued an edict recognizing the bishop of Rome (the Pope) as “head of all the Churches.”
  • At the same time, Justinian appointed the Pope as the supreme authority in religious matters, which strengthened Rome’s position in the Christian world.

• The elimination of the Ostrogoths in 538 AD
  
  • The Ostrogoths, who controlled Rome and opposed papal dominance, were defeated by General Belisarius in 538 AD.
    
  • This victory allowed the Pope to exercise authority without opposition, marking the beginning of papal domination in Europe.

Connection to biblical prophecy:

• Daniel 7:8, 25 – The “little horn” (the Papacy) uproots three horns (the Heruli, the Vandals, and the Ostrogoths) and is granted ruling power.
  
• Revelation 13:3 – The “mortal wound” of Rome (its fall in 476 AD) is “healed” through the rise of the Papacy in 538 AD.
  
• Daniel 7:25 and Revelation 12:6, 14 – These mention 1260 years of papal domination, a period beginning in 538 AD and ending in 1798 AD, when the Pope was captured by Napoleon’s forces.

The three destroyed Arian tribes:

• Heruli (493 AD) – Removed by the Ostrogoths under Theodoric the Great.
  
• Vandals (534 AD) – Defeated by the Byzantine army of Belisarius, sent by Justinian I.
  
• Ostrogoths (538 AD) – Defeated in Rome by Belisarius, thus removing Arian opposition to the Papacy.

The significance of the year 538 AD:

• In 533 AD, Emperor Justinian I issued an edict recognizing the bishop of Rome (the Pope) as “head of all churches.”
  
• In 538 AD, after Rome was freed from the Ostrogoths, the Pope was able to exercise this authority without opposition.
  
• This moment is considered the beginning of the 1260-year period of papal dominance (538–1798 AD), mentioned in Daniel 7:25 and Revelation 12:6, 14.

The year 538 AD is a turning point in history, as it marks the transition from the Roman Empire to the Papacy as the primary power of influence in Europe. This is where the Middle Ages begin—a period in which the Catholic Church had enormous influence over politics, culture, and daily life.

Thus, the Papacy is not the entire beast, but rather the “mouth” that was given to it for a time. The woman already existed, riding the beast, and beginning in 538, the mouth becomes her instrument of dogmatic and persecutory influence. This mouth speaks “blasphemies against God, against His tabernacle, and against those who dwell in heaven” (Rev. 13:6)—that is, it produces a false theology that contradicts the Revelation of God.

The 1260-Year Period

The prophetic period of 1260 years is one of the most important and recurring in the Bible. It appears repeatedly in both Daniel and Revelation, designating the time during which an apostate religious authority—the mouth given to the beast—dominated the spiritual and political scene of the Christian world.

Where does this period appear?

1. Daniel 7:25– the little horn: “He shall speak pompous words against the Most High, shall persecute the saints of the Most High, and shall intend to change times and law. Then the saints shall be given into his hand for a time, times, and half a time.”
   (1 + 2 + 0.5 = 3.5 prophetic years = 1260 years)
2. Revelation 12:6– the persecuted woman: “Then the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there one thousand two hundred and sixty days.”
3. Revelation 12:14– the same woman: “...where she is nourished for a time, times, and half a time.”
4. Revelation 13:5– the mouth of the beast: “And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue for forty-two months.” (42 months × 30 = 1260 prophetic days = 1260 years)

The connection between these prophetic passages is essential.

All of them refer to the same period: the spiritual domination of the world by an apostate religious authority that speaks blasphemies against God and persecutes the saints.

• In Daniel 7, the little horn has a mouth that speaks boastfully, utters blasphemies, changes the law, and persecutes the saints.
  
• In Revelation 13, the mouth given to the beast does exactly the same things: it speaks blasphemies and holds authority for 42 months.
  
• In Daniel 8, the little horn rises “up to the Prince of the host,” removes the daily sacrifice, and “casts truth to the ground” through cunning and deceit.

This clear parallel shows that the “mouth” is the symbolic synthesis of the two “little horns” from Daniel 7 and Daniel 8:

• From Daniel 7, it inherits the religious nature, spiritual authority, and the claim to stand in the place of God.
  
• From Daniel 8, it inherits philosophy, subtle rhetoric, theological syncretism, and the ideological mixture through which truth is deceitfully falsified.

Therefore, the mouth is not just a religious system, but a syncretic ideology—a philosophical-religious theology—based on Paul’s gospel: the blending of Jewish elements with Greek concepts such as the impersonal Logos, the dual nature, the immortal soul, justification by faith without deeds, and so on.

What is new in this interpretation?

This interpretation brings a unique discovery: for the first time, it identifies the little horn in Daniel 8 with Philosophy, in contrast to traditional interpretations that confuse it with the Papacy.

Many commentators have assumed that both visions — Daniel 7 and Daniel 8 — describe the same phenomenon (the papal power), but this assumption is false. In reality, the two little horns are distinct:

• The horn in Daniel 8 arises from Greece and acts for 2300 prophetic days.

• The horn in Daniel 7 arises from the fourth beast, that is, the Roman Empire, and dominates for 1260 prophetic days.

This essential chronological and geographical difference has been overlooked by many classical interpretations.

Revelation 13:6 says that the mouth speaks:

• blasphemies against the Name of God,

• against His Tabernacle (the sanctuary),

• and against those who dwell in heaven.

These three details do not appear in Daniel 7, but they clearly appear in Daniel 8:11–12 and 8:24–25, where the little horn:

• exalts itself as high as the Prince of the host (i.e., blasphemes against God),

• takes away the daily sacrifice and casts truth down to the ground (i.e., attacks the sanctuary and the heavenly service),

• and through cunning shall cause deceit to prosper (i.e., uses deception, philosophy, and syncretism).

Through this prophetic connection, the mouth becomes the image of a deep ideological syncretism—not just a papal structure, but the expression of an ideology that unites:

• the corrupted Jewish root (religious authority),

• the Greek philosophical shell (cunning, relativism),

• and the Roman political instrument (authority and persecution).

Therefore, the mouth in Revelation 13 must be understood as a prophetic synthesis of the two little horns:

• from Daniel 7, it inherits the authoritarian religious dimension — blasphemy and persecution of the saints,

• from Daniel 8, it inherits the ideological dimension — deception and distortion of truth, that is, the hallmark traits of Philosophy.

This observation is essential because it shows that the mouth is not merely the voice of a religious power (as classical interpretations suggest), but rather the expression of a composite ideological system — a fusion of corrupted Jewish theology, Greek philosophical rationalism, and Roman political dominance. And this syncretism is precisely what defines the beast of Revelation 13.

Identifying the connection between the two horns and the mouth provides the key to understanding the true nature of the beast: not just a religious power, but a complex ideological system, with multiple roots and global influence.

The period 538–1798 AD – Historical application:

• 538 AD: After the elimination of the three Arian tribes (Heruli, Vandals, Ostrogoths), the bishop of Rome is recognized as the supreme religious authority, and the “mouth” begins to speak blasphemies– that is, theological dogmas that contradict the character of God.

• The Papacy becomes the spiritual center of Europe, influencing kings, political systems, laws, and culture.

  • Kings were crowned only with the Pope’s approval.

  • The Inquisition fought "heresies" with violence.

  • The Sabbath Law was changed.

  • The saints were persecuted if they did not accept official dogmas.

• 1798 AD: The Pope is captured by General Berthier of Napoleon’s army, marking the end of the 1260 years.

This period corresponds precisely to all three prophetic descriptions:

• The little horn from Daniel 7– persecutes and changes the law.

• The little horn from Daniel 8– deceives through cunning, falsifies the truth.

• The mouth from Revelation 13– speaks blasphemies, receives authority, persecutes the saints.

The 1260 days (years) are not merely a period of religious persecution, but an era of domination by a syncretic ideology. It is the result of combining:

• Jewish theology(the wounded head),

• with Greek philosophy(the little horn from Daniel 8),

• and Roman imperial authority(the structure of the beast).

This ideology is spoken by the “mouth,” and the “mouth” is the theological expression of the woman who rides the beast.

The Number 666

The test of identity and symbolic confirmation of the Beast

Revelation 13:18: "Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man. His number is six hundred sixty-six."

The text does not ask for the number to be found—it is already given: 666. Instead, the request is to "calculate"the number, meaning to identify the namefrom which this number can be derived—a clear clue that this is a symbolic identification of the Beast. Not every entity that can be numerologically converted into 666 is the Beast. On the contrary: the number must correspond to the entire prophetic portrait of the Beast—its history, theology, symbolism, function, authority, and relationship with the Dragon.

Prophetic validation criteria:

1. The Beast is an entity that exists from the moment it rises from the sea—so the name must be active and recognized from that point (Rev. 13:1–4).

2. The name is associated with the Beast, not with the woman, the mouth, or the image—it is the name of the Beast, not of a later component.

3. The identity of the name must match the rest of the prophetic description—historically, ideologically, theologically.

4. The number must be calculated based on the Greek alphabet, because Revelation was written in Greek.

The only viable option: LATEINOS
The term Lateinos(ΛΑΤΕΙΝΟΣ in Greek) means "inhabitant of Latium"—that is, the founder and ruler of the Roman Empire. These were not merely citizens of the empire, but the ruling elite—those original “Latins” who gave the empire its language, its laws, and its model of authority. The numerical value of the Greek word LATEINOSis exactly 666:

This interpretation was mentioned as early as the 2nd centuryby Irenaeus, the disciple of Polycarp—and since then, no other proposal has endured over time without contradictions or artificial constructions.

Why does LATEINOS fit perfectly?

• It is a "name of a man"—designating a concrete ethnic identity.

• It is associated with the Beast from the moment it rises from the sea—Rome was founded by Latins.

• It is tied to imperial political and religious authority—Caesar was considered divine.

• It is a universal ideological label—Latin has been preserved as a symbol of spiritual authority to this day, especially by the Vatican.

• It precisely reflectsthe prophetic system of domination described in Revelation—the Beast that receives a throne, authority, and power from the Dragon (Rev. 13:2).

• It is distinct from the Papacy—which is the "mouth" given later. The Beast already has its name when it receives the mouth.

Other options? None withstand scrutiny.

Interpretations like "Vicarius Filii Dei" may be appealing, but they have two major flaws:

1. They are not the name of the Beast, but possibly of the “mouth”—that is, the Papacy, which holds power during the 1260 years.

2. They are in Latin, not in Greek—yet the text of Revelation is written in Greek.

Other modern proposals (e.g., “Nero,” “Internet,” “Barack Obama,” “Russia,” “China”) are either fantasticalor fail to meet the textual requirements. They ignore the historical, prophetic, and theological contextof the Beast and reduce the analysis to a number game, without symbolic or historical validation.

The name of the Beast must be:

• Known from the moment it rises from the sea,

• Associated with universal imperial powergiven by the Dragon,

• Numerically and symbolically valid,

• Preserved over time, even if the “mouth” or “woman” have changed.

The only optionthat meets all these conditions is LATEINOS—the symbol of the exclusive elites who ruled the Roman Empire, established imperial Christianity, and perpetuated their ideological authority to this day through language, theology, and structure.

"Lateinos" & Ecclesia Catholica Romana

This name designates the Roman Catholic Church, which:

• Presents itself as a universal church (catholica).

• Has a connection with Rome (romana), where the papal seat is located.

The Role of the Latin Language in Catholicism:

• Latin is the official language of the Catholic Church.

• All doctrinal documents and official decisions are written in Latin.

• The liturgy was celebrated exclusively in Latin until the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965).

What Does "Lateinos" Mean in Greek?

In Ancient Greece, the term Λατίνος (Lateinos)referred to the inhabitants of the Latium region, where Rome was located.

• It was not a term used for all Romans but strictly for the Latins who ruled Rome.

How Did the Greeks Call the Romans?

• The usual term was Ῥωμαῖοι (Rhomaioi)– used for the citizens of Rome and the empire.
  
• Lateinos designated the Latin ruling class.

Association with the Catholic Church: After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Catholic Church continued the legacy of Rome.

• Latin remained the official language.

• Rome remained the religious center.

• The Papacy took over the power structures of ancient Rome.

This association does not come from ancient Greeks but from early Christian theological interpretations.
Irenaeus of Lyons (2nd century) was the first to mention that "Lateinos" sums up to 666.

Difference Between "Lateinos" and "Rhomaioi"

• Rhomaioi– designated all Roman citizens, including the conquered ones (e.g., the Apostle Paul was Roman by citizenship).

• Lateinos– designated only the Latins who ruled Rome.
  

Thus, not all Romans were Latins, but all Latins were Romans.

Who Were the "Lateinos"?

The Latins were the original population of the Latium region, where Rome was located.
They formed the founding elite of the Roman state and established the cultural, linguistic, and political foundations of Rome. Unlike Roman citizens from other provinces, the Latins were the ruling core of the empire.

Characteristics of the Original Latins:

• They were considered the founders of Rome and the authentic bearers of Roman traditions.

• They spoke Latin as their mother tongue and imposed this language in administration and governance.

• They occupied key positions in administration and the Roman army.

• They had exclusive rights to the highest political and religious offices.

How Was the "Lateinos" Identity Transmitted?

The Latin identity was transmitted through:

• Birth– Only those born into Latin families automatically held this status.

• Family Heritage– Belonging to the Latin elite granted access to leadership roles.

• Marital Connections– Marriages among Latin elites strengthened this identity.

• Patrician Class Membership– Initially, only patrician families had exclusive access to power.

What Rights Did the Lateinos Have Compared to the Rest of the Population?

As the ruling elite, the Latins had rights and privileges that other groups did not.

Exclusive Rights of the Original Latins:

• Exclusive Access to Leadership Roles:Only Latins could initially hold top political and military positions.

• Right to Govern Rome and Provinces:They were governors, senators, and generals of the empire.

• Control of Resources:The most fertile lands and wealth in the empire were concentrated in the hands of the Latin elite.

• Exclusivity in the Roman Senate:Initially, only Latins from Rome and Latium could be senators.

What Important Roles Were Reserved for Them?

In the Roman Republic and Empire, only those with Latin origins could occupy the most important state functions.

a) Emperors of Rome (Caesars)

• The early centuries of the empire were exclusively dominated by emperors of Latin origin.

• An emperor had to have authentic Latin origins to be accepted as a legitimate leader.

b) The Roman Senate

• The Senate was initially composed only of Latin elites.

• Senators had to own vast estates and belong to traditional families.

c) Executive Functions: Consuls, Praetors, Aediles

• Consuls– The highest magistrates of the Republic, chosen only from the Latin elite.

• Praetors– Supreme judges, who had to be of Latin origin.

• Aediles– Responsible for infrastructure and urban organization, selected from Latin families.

d) Military Leadership

• Roman generals had to be of Latin origin.

• Roman Knights (Equites)– An influential military class dominated by Latins.

The original Latins from Rome and Latium formed the ruling elite of Rome and dominated politics and the military for centuries. Their identity was inherited by birth, and the top roles were reserved exclusively for them. Even after the extension of Roman citizenship, Latins remained the dominant class, ensuring the continuity of Rome's power.

The Greek Word "Λατεινός" (Lateinos) Sums Up to 666

• Λ (Lambda) = 30

• Α (Alpha) = 1

• Τ (Tau) = 300

• Ε (Epsilon) = 5

• Ι (Iota) = 10

• Ν (Nu) = 50

• Ο (Omicron) = 70

• Σ (Sigma) = 200

• Total = 666

Therefore, the number 666 is linked to the term Λατεινός (Lateinos), which in Greek means "Latins." This is important because the Roman Empire was well known for its extensive fiscal system, based on mandatory taxes and levies on citizens and provinces.

• The Roman Empire collected taxes through various methods, including direct taxes on income, taxes on goods and services, and tributes imposed on conquered provinces.

• The tax system was perceived as a heavy burden, especially on the subjugated peoples, who were forced to contribute to financing the Roman army and imperial luxury.

• This economic control is similar to the image in Revelation 13:16-17, where no one could "buy or sell" without the "mark of the Beast."

Parallel with Solomon's Taxes

In 1 Kings 10:14and 2 Chronicles 9:13, the number 666 is mentioned as the weight of gold that Solomon received annually from taxes and tributes.
This indicates an economic system in which wealth was concentrated at the top, while the people bore the burden of taxes.
Just like in Revelation, 666 is associated with a mechanism of economic control and political power.

The interpretation based on Λατεινός (Lateinos )links the number 666 to the Roman Empire and its mandatory taxes, suggesting an oppressive power that controls the economy and trade through forced levies. This connection explains why the Beast from Revelation is associated with a system of economic restrictions and suggests that 666 is more than just a number—it is a symbol of economic and political control exercised through mandatory taxes and levies.

The Vatican State

The Vatican State is the only sovereign ecclesiastical state in the world, entirely governed by a religious authority, the Pope, who holds both spiritual and political power. Founded in 1929 through the Lateran Treaties, the Vatican is the center of the Catholic Church and represents a unique case in history, being an independent state with an area of only 44 hectares. Its authority is not derived from political or economic force, but from its religious significance, being internationally recognized as a sovereign entity distinct from Italy.

There are no other similar ecclesiastical states in the world. Although there are territories with religious autonomy, such as Mount Athos in Greece, or theocratic states like Iran, none of these entities combine state sovereignty with religious leadership in such a complete way as the Vatican. The Holy See, as a distinct legal entity, represents the Vatican on the international stage, thus consolidating the unique status of this state where papal authority is absolute both spiritually and administratively.

The Vatican Is the Only State in the World with Latin as Its Official Language

The choice of Latin as the only official language of the Vatican shows that:

• The Vatican sees itself as the direct heir of Rome, not only spiritually but also culturally.

• Latin is a symbol of authority—used in law, science, and religion, indicating the continuity of Rome in the structures of world power.

• There was no need for Italian as an official language because, in practice, it can be used, but maintaining Latin is a symbolic gesture that demonstrates Rome's domination through tradition.

• The Symbolism of Latin in Global Religion
  • Although many local churches use national languages, Latin is still used in liturgies and official documents.

  • Any important papal document is first issued in Latin.

  • Latin is the key to spiritual Rome, just as it was the key to political Rome in the past.

 If a modern state wanted to consider itself the "heir" of Rome, it would need to adopt Latin as its official language. But the only state that has done this is the Vatican, which ties it to Ancient Rome in a unique way.

Latin – A Symbol of Global Domination

If we analyze the global reality, we notice that no other "dead" language has been preserved in this way. Latin is no longer anyone's native language, but it remains the language of global authority.

If Revelation speaks of a beast that imposes its name on the world, and that name is "Lateinos" (Rome), then maintaining Latin in fields of power could be a sign that this system has not disappeared but has only transformed.

Maintaining the Latin language in essential fields such as law, science, medicine, and religion is not a mere historical accident, but a symbol of the continuity of Rome's authority. Even in countries with no Latin heritage, Latin is imposed in elite structures, suggesting that it is more than an ancient language—it is a sign of cultural and legal domination that survived the fall of imperial Rome.

Connecting This Aspect to Revelation

If we link this aspect to Revelation, the idea that the "image of the beast" is a symbol of the continued authority of Rome becomes relevant. The beast receives a mortal wound but returns to power in another form. Similarly, imperial Rome fell, but its influence was maintained through the Vatican and through structures that preserved Latin as the language of authority.

If in the future global identification, economy, and religion systems were to adopt Latin as the official language, this could confirm the connection between this tradition and the imposition of global control. The fact that official international documents, law, and science continue to use Latin shows that this legacy has not been abandoned but intentionally maintained.

The question remains open: Could Latin be one of the elements through which the authority described in Revelation will manifest? Is its preservation a sign that Rome's influence has not disappeared but has merely adapted to the new structures of the modern world?

Vatican and Academia

It is clear that the Vatican's influence on academia has considerably diminished in the modern era, but it has not disappeared entirely. In the Middle Ages, control was direct, exercised through language (Latin), through curriculum, and through the university structure, which was strongly connected to the Church. Today, the Vatican's influence is more symbolic, ethical, and moral, limited to specific fields such as theology, bioethics, or humanities.

However, it can be observed that the Vatican maintains a significant presence in key areas of knowledge through:

• Catholic universities, which promote a vision compatible with Vatican doctrine.

• The Pontifical Academy of Sciences, involving prestigious researchers from around the world.

• Intervention in ethical and social issues, influencing global debates.

An interesting aspect is that, although Latin is no longer the primary language of education, the Vatican manages to maintain a certain continuity of its influence in the academic field, raising the question of whether this symbolic authority can be reactivated in the future in a new global context.

The Beast Is Not a Man

In Revelation 13:18, the number 666 is described as "the number of the beast." The beast is not a man but an empire, a political and religious system.
In Daniel 7, each beast symbolizes an empire:

• The Lion– Babylon

• The Bear– Medo-Persia

• The Leopard– Greece

• The Beast with Ten Horns– The Roman Empire

The horns symbolize rulers, not kingdoms:

• Alexander the Greatis symbolized by a "great horn" (Daniel 8:21).

• The "little horn" in Daniel 7:8 has "eyes like a man," suggesting a human leader but part of a larger system.

Therefore, the beast is a kingdom, and the number 666 is not of a man but of a system that includes organized leadership.

Identifying the Beast

The texts in Revelation chapters 13 and 17 provide multiple criteria:

• it is an empire

• it has a throne

• it possesses religious authority (the woman rides it)

• it enforces worship

• it persecutes

• it is geographically connected to Rome

• it has a name whose number is 666

So-called alternatives such as Titan, Teitan, Evanthas, or others do not fit:

• they are not kingdoms

• they have no religious structure

• they are unrelated to Rome

• they do not fulfill the conditions of the prophecy

The only name that fits perfectly on all levels—name, language, number, empire, religion, authority—is Lateinos.

Is the Pope a Lateinos?

The Pope is an authentic Lateinos. This is a historical, linguistic, theological, and prophetic reality.

The title Vicarius Iesu Christi, officially recognized, automatically implies that the Pope is Vicarius Filii Dei—regardless of whether some acknowledge it explicitly or not.

The Pope is:

• Bishop of Rome – the central city of ancient Latium

• Sovereign of the Vatican – a state born out of the Roman imperial structure

• Head of the Latin Church – distinct from the Greek/Orthodox Church

• Representative of the Western religious authority that operates in Latin

• Historical heir of a Roman institutional lineage (from Peter to the pontiffs of Rome)

Therefore, in every sense—ethnic, linguistic, geographical, theological, and prophetic—the Pope is a true Lateinos.

The Title “Vicarius Iesu Christi” – the Theological Key

One of the Pope’s official titles, recognized in the Annuario Pontificio, is:

Vicarius Iesu Christi– “Vicar of Jesus Christ.”

This title is official, public, and consistently used in papal documents.

Now, according to Catholic theology, Iesus Christiis Filius Dei– the Son of God.

Therefore:

Vicarius Iesu Christi = Vicarius Filii Dei

To deny this would be to deny that Jesus Christ is the Son of God—something impossible within Catholic doctrine.

Thus, even if some Catholic apologists attempt to reject the expression Vicarius Filii Dei on the grounds that “it is not an official title,” this objection collapses immediately:

• either because the expression has indeed been used in historical canonical documents (such as Decretum Gratianiand Donatio Constantini),

• or because the officially recognized title—Vicarius Iesu Christi—automatically implies the theological equivalence with Vicarius Filii Dei.

With or without a tiara, with or without written documents, the core meaning of the statement remains valid.

Symbols of Catholicism

Trinity (The Central Dogma of the Catholic Church)

• The formula "Father, Son, and Holy Spirit" is invoked in all Catholic rites.

• The sign of the cross is always made "in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit."

The Cross (The Visible Symbol of Catholicism)

• All Catholics worship through the sign of the cross, confirming the Trinitarian dogma.

• It is present in all churches, on all seals, and official documents.

• The Pope uses a cross as a symbol of his spiritual authority.

Thus, the Trinity and the Cross are the central symbols of Catholicism, being directly related to the "image" of the beast from Revelation 13. If the mark of the beast represents imposed worship, then the sign of the cross, in its ritualistic form, could be a mark imposed by a global religious authority.

Revelation 13 Emphasizes That the Mark of the Beast Is Related to Worship

1. The Catholic Church has historically imposed the sign of the cross as an act of worship and belonging to the Trinitarian dogma.

   • Historically, during certain periods, those who refused official dogmas (e.g., the Trinity, papal authority) were excluded from society and the economy.

   • The sign of the cross, in certain contexts, was used to mark loyalty to the church system.

2. Both Catholics and Orthodox Christians make the sign of the cross with the right hand, but:

   • Catholics:Forehead – Chest – Left Shoulder – Right Shoulder

   • Orthodox:Forehead – Chest – Right Shoulder – Left Shoulder
     

3. All branches of Christianity, including Protestants, use the cross as a fundamental symbol.

• • Even though Protestants do not make the sign of the cross, the cross is displayed on their church buildings, flags, books, and in sermons.
    

This suggests that regardless of doctrinal differences, the cross has become a universally accepted symbol of the entire Christian world. If the beast from Revelation 13 represents a global religious system, then the cross could be considered a sign of loyalty to that system. This interpretation provides a new perspective on the mark of the beast, linking it to the history of Rome, the Latin rulers, and the religious symbols perpetuated throughout the centuries.

The Presence of Latin in Symbols

An Enigma of Continuity between Religious and Masonic Traditions

The Latin language has been considered for centuries as a language of authority, erudition, and gravity in expression, used in various official and symbolic contexts. Although in the modern era Latin is no longer a spoken language, it continues to be present in the official symbols of some states and organizations. In particular, its presence in the symbolism of the United States of America and Freemasonry raises fundamental questions about the origin and meaning of these Latin expressions. Moreover, analyzing these symbols reveals possible connections with Jesuit influences, well known for their ability to infiltrate political and religious structures.

Latin in the Symbols of the United States of America

The Great Seal of the United States, created in 1782, represents one of the most eloquent examples of the use of Latin in an official context. The Latin expressions “E Pluribus Unum” (From many, one), “Annuit Cœptis” (He has favored our undertakings), and “Novus Ordo Seclorum” (New order of the ages) are inscribed on the seal and were later transferred to the one-dollar bill in 1935. The appearance of these Latin expressions, in a state that claimed to separate itself from any religious or monarchical European influence, raises questions about the symbolic inspiration.

From Many, One - A Motto with Papal Resonance

Interestingly, the expression “E Pluribus Unum” strikingly resembles the process of electing a new Pope, where from the multitude of cardinals gathered in the conclave, a single spiritual leader is chosen, thus guaranteeing the continuity and unity of the Catholic Church. This parallel between the national symbol of the USA and the papal concept of unity might suggest a subtle Catholic influence or at least an indirect inspiration. Moreover, the use of Latin for these expressions betrays a strong connection to medieval European traditions, where Latin was the official language of religious power.

Freemasonry and the Latin Language

Freemasonry has traditionally adopted Latin symbols and expressions to confer solemnity to its rituals. For example, within the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, the expression “Ordo ab Chao” (Order from chaos) is used to emphasize the ability to create order amid moral and spiritual chaos. Although Freemasonry officially claims to be a secular organization, the Latin language used in expressions and mottos reflects a clerical inspiration. It is remarkable that Latin continued to be used in Masonic rituals even after the Protestant Reformation, suggesting a possible link with Jesuit influences, who managed to keep Latin learning alive during the period of their official ban.

Jesuit Influence and the Continuity of Latin

The Jesuits, known for their rigorous education and ability to infiltrate political and religious structures, maintained Latin as the language of higher education and theology, even during the period when the order was officially dissolved (1773-1814). Their indirect influence can be detected in the maintenance of Latin symbols in Freemasonry and in American national symbolism. Charles Thomson, designer of the Great Seal of the USA, had a classical education based on Latin and Greek, and the fact that he insisted on Latin mottos is at least suspicious in the context of a Protestant state. Considering that his education took place under the guidance of Presbyterian Reverend Francis Alison, who himself came from an Irish area with strong Catholic influences, the hypothesis of Jesuit influence becomes plausible.

Conclusion

The presence of Latin in American and Masonic official symbols may seem, at first glance, to be a mere expression of classical tradition, but a closer analysis reveals a possible Catholic substrate, influenced by erudite education and Jesuit infiltration. While Freemasonry claims to be a secular structure, Latin symbolism, with a strong religious and Catholic resonance, suggests that the Jesuit legacy and medieval European tradition did not completely disappear but subtly survived in the official symbols of a nation that claimed independence from religious influences. Thus, the presence of Latin in modern symbolism remains a mystery with deeper implications than mere academic continuity.

The Beast with Two Horns

The second beast is an entity that appears after the first beast and, although it initially seems different (having “two horns like a lamb”), it eventually adopts the same methods of control (“it spoke like a dragon”).

The Rise of the USA and Confrontation with the British Empire

The USA emerged in history through a direct conflict with the British Empire, culminating in the American Revolution (1775-1783).

• A New Beast: The USA was born out of opposition to the imperial British system of governance, establishing itself on new principles: religious freedom, the separation of church and state, and a democratic model.
• Horns like a lamb: This symbol may indicate a promising beginning, based on values of freedom and individual rights.
• Voice of a dragon:In prophecy, the second beast starts as a positive power, but later adopts the control methods of the first beast, establishing a global system of economic and religious influence.

The Second Beast Extends and Enforces the Structures of the First Beast:

• Image of the Beast →A symbol of submission and control, representing absolute authority.

• Mark of the Beast →A mandatory identification system, whether spiritual or technological.

• Name of the Beast →The legacy of Rome, imposed on a global scale.

• Number 666 →A code reflecting the identity of the first beast and its power structures.

If the USA is identified as the second beast, then its role in prophecy is to reintroduce the economic and religious control of the first beast:

• Through global political and economic influence.

• Through technologies that facilitate identification and restrict access to resources.

• Through the promotion of a unified system of worship, in accordance with the model of the first beast.

Although the USA appears to represent a system different from that of the first beast, in reality, it becomes its main instrument for implementing a new global control system, based on the legacy of Rome. The second beast does not destroy the first beast but consolidates and reactivates it in a modern form, as suggested by apocalyptic prophecies.

"He spoke like a dragon"

The expression refers to the second beast (which rises from the earth), described as having "two horns like a lamb" and "speaking like a dragon." This beast is identified as the "false prophet" (Revelation 16:13, 19:20, 20:10). However, what does it concretely mean that "he spoke like a dragon"? The dragon (clearly identified as Satan in Revelation 12:9) is not presented as speaking directly in the chapters where he appears. Yet the expression "spoke like a dragon" gives the impression that we should know how this character speaks. Therefore, to clarify the meaning of the expression, it is necessary to search the Scriptures for all instances where the dragon (or Satan, the ancient serpent) speaks directly.

The Devil’s Speech in Scripture

I have identified the following instances where Satan (or the ancient serpent) explicitly speaks:

Genesis 3:1–5 - The Serpent's Speech with Eve:

• Speaking Style: Subtle, manipulative, seemingly reasonable.

• Message: "You will not surely die... you will be like God, knowing good and evil."

• Partial Truth: Yes, they did become like God (Genesis 3:22 confirms this).

• Lie: By omission – he says nothing about losing access to the Tree of Life, which is actually the key to humanity’s death.

• Purpose: To create confusion, but through incomplete information rather than an outright lie.

Job 1:6–12 and 2:1–7 - Satan’s Speech with God:

• Speaking Style: Accusatory, provocative.

• Message: Challenges Job’s integrity and questions his loyalty.

• Purpose: To discredit Job's character.

Zechariah 3:1–2 - Satan Accusing the High Priest Joshua:

• Speaking Style: Not directly recorded, but clearly accusatory.

• Implied Message: Joshua is unworthy.

• Purpose: To hinder his acceptance before God.

Matthew 4:1–11 and Luke 4:1–13 - The Temptation of Jesus in the Wilderness:

• Speaking Style: Provocative, seemingly logical, quoting distorted biblical verses.

• Message: "If you are the Son of God..."

• Purpose: To make Jesus doubt His identity.

Common Characteristics of the Devil’s Speech

Analyzing all these passages, we notice that the devil’s speech has a few clear traits:

• He speaks the truth only partially, giving the impression of a different reality.

• He manipulates through insinuation, presenting half-truths as complete facts.

• He suggests ideas that lead to a wrong decision.

• He is accusatory and aims to discredit the character of the righteous.

To speak "like a dragon" means to use words that seem inspired and full of truth but conceal a deceptive agenda. It is a type of false religious discourse that gives the impression of spiritual authenticity but is, in essence, a subtle manipulation. The false prophet in Revelation, symbolized by the beast with two horns like a lamb, embodies this ability to present falsehood as truth, deceiving through seemingly innocent words.

The Image of the Beast in Revelation 13

Starting from the prophecy in Revelation 13, I considered it essential to understand what the "image of the beast" means and how it could be identified in the current context.
My goal was to closely follow both the prophetic text and contemporary reality, in order to see how this prophecy could be fulfilled in a concrete and intelligible way.
I began with the premise that a serious study must respect both the text and historical reality, without gratuitous assumptions.

1. Correctly Defining the Problem

The prophecy indicates that the second beast (which I identify with the United States of America) will propose to the whole world to make an "image" in honor of the first beast, the beast that had received a mortal wound and was healed.
From the biblical text, it is clear that the image is not meant to copy the beast as ridden by the woman (see chapter 17 and the symbol of the "mouth"), but the beast in its original state, before being ridden by the woman.
This clarification is essential:

• The mortal wound had already been healed at the moment the beast was rising from the sea (Revelation 13:1-3),

• The woman (symbol of the institutionalized church) had not yet ridden it,

• The "mouth" that speaks blasphemies (Revelation 13:5) appears after the woman rides it.

• Therefore, the image must reflect the beast before this stage.

In historical terms, this corresponds to the Christianized Roman Empire under Constantine, when:

• the beast had an official Christian identity, but was not yet dominated by the papal structure.

Thus, I sought to understand what image or symbol could reproduce this initial "Christian-imperial" beast.

2. Analysis of Trends in the USA

I closely observed the moral symbols promoted today in American society, especially among conservatives.
The strongest manifestation I noticed was the massive promotion of the motto "In God We Trust":

• Displayed in schools, public institutions, and official spaces,

• Adopted by over 20 U.S. states through special laws,

• Supported by over 90% of citizens as an expression of national values.

Compared to other religious symbols, such as the cross or prayer in schools, "In God We Trust" is widely accepted and rarely publicly contested.
However, I also noticed some important limitations of this motto:

• It was introduced only during the Civil War (1864) on the two-cent coin, – a coin more symbolic than of practical value,

• It became the official national motto only in 1956,

• It is deeply tied to the American political and cultural context, not to the Roman imperial tradition.

Therefore, I concluded that although the motto is strong in the U.S., it cannot fulfill the role of the prophetic global image, because of:

• its lack of historical antiquity,

• its exclusively American roots,

• its lack of direct connection with the Latin "lateinos" tradition (666).

3. Analysis of the European Context

I also analyzed the situation in contemporary Europe and found some essential realities:

• Europe is undergoing an unprecedented crisis of identity and values.

• In the public and political space, there are increasingly frequent calls for "traditional Christian values."

• There is a real need to reaffirm a common moral identity, but without using explicitly religious language.

I understood that, unlike the U.S.:

• Europe, being much more secularized, could not accept a motto that directly invokes the name of God ("God"),

• A symbol is needed that is old, cultural, and religious,

• A symbol that does not impose dogmas but morally and historically legitimizes the new social order.

This led me to the essential question:
Is there such a symbol that fulfills all prophetic and historical conditions?

4. The Discovery: "In hoc signo vinces" and the Cross

By carefully studying the historical period indicated by prophecy, I concluded that "In hoc signo vinces" ("By this sign you will conquer") and the Cross (especially the Chi-Rho symbol ☧) are the natural answer.
The arguments are multiple:

• The motto "In hoc signo vinces" appeared in 312 AD, when Constantine officially established Christianity as the state religion,

• The sign of the Cross (Chi-Rho ☧) was placed on the imperial army's banners and shields,

• These symbols are ancient, Latin, and imperial, thus perfectly compatible with the "lateinos" tradition and the number 666,

• They are culturally acceptable to Orthodox, Catholics, and Protestants,

• They do not require adherence to a particular church but express a shared Christian tradition.

It is also important to note that:

• Latin was the exclusive language of the Western Christian liturgy for over 1500 years,

• Only in the 1960s (Second Vatican Council), the Catholic Church officially abandoned compulsory Latin – a radical change aimed at "erasing the traces" of the direct connection to the Latin Empire,

• This transition from Latin to modern languages coincided with the widespread adoption of the motto "In God We Trust" in the U.S.

Thus, there is a subtle but real historical continuity between the imperial Christian tradition (Chi-Rho, the cross, Latin) and the new attempts at moral reaffirmation in the Western world.

5. The Conclusion of My Study

After this careful analysis, I concluded that:

The image of the beast that the second beast (the U.S.) will propose to the world will not simply be "In God We Trust."

This is too recent, too local, and too modern.
Instead, the prophetic image will be tied to:

• The Cross (☧ or †) as a universally recognized symbol,

• The Latin motto "In hoc signo vinces," closely linked to the authority of imperial Christianity.

This choice:

• Respects the historical period of the prophecy,

• Is compatible with the "lateinos" tradition and 666,

• Is culturally and religiously acceptable,

• Can unify both the U.S. and Europe into a new global moral order.

Therefore, I believe that "In hoc signo vinces" and the Cross represent the most fitting candidate for what Revelation calls "the image of the beast."

The Ideological Evolution of the USA and Europe

The Need for a New Common Symbol

As a continuation of the study on the image of the beast in Revelation 13, I considered it important to examine more closely how the ideological alliance between the USA and Europe was formed and what changes have occurred over the past two centuries.
Understanding this evolution is essential to see why today there is an acute need to reaffirm "traditional values" and how this movement could lead to the formation of the prophetic image.

1. The Common Root: Autonomous Philosophy

The USA and modern Europe have their roots in the autonomous philosophy initially developed in ancient Greece and revived through the European Enlightenment.
The essential principles of this philosophy were:

• the separation of church and state,

• the affirmation of human reason as the supreme authority,

• the rejection of divine authority as the source of political law.

Thus:

• The USA was born as a state based on freedom of conscience and autonomous reason,

• Europe underwent a similar process, dramatically accelerated by the French Revolution.

This common philosophical foundation created an ideological partnership between the two powers as early as the 18th century.

2. USA–Europe Collaboration: From Revolutions to Secular Order

After the American and French Revolutions, the USA and Europe jointly promoted:

• the secularization of the state,

• private religious freedom,

• the elimination of the direct influence of churches over governance.

These values became the foundation of the modern world order, dominated by the secular state and autonomous philosophy.

3. The First Major Shift in the USA: The Moral Crisis of the Civil War

During the American Civil War (1861–1865), the lack of a common moral foundation became evident.
In the face of division, there was an urgent need to affirm:

• the unity of the nation,

• the moral legitimacy of the North's cause,

• divine support in the conflict.

Thus, at the initiative of religious and political leaders, the following was introduced:

• the motto "In God We Trust," first inscribed on the two-cent coin in 1864.

Although the coin had little practical value, its symbolism was enormous: it conveyed the idea that America remained "under divine protection" and that its struggle was morally legitimate.

4. Consolidation After World War II

After World War II, in a context of ideological confrontation with atheist regimes (Soviet communism), the USA strengthened this direction:

• In 1956, "In God We Trust" became the official national motto,

• it was printed on all banknotes and coins,

• it became a symbol of moral resistance against atheistic secularism.

Thus, a subtle mutation occurred in the USA:

• the secular state began to wear a general Christian moral cloak,

• without imposing allegiance to any particular church,

• but reaffirming traditional values acceptable to all Christian currents.

This syncretic synthesis proved extremely effective in the context of American global propaganda.

5. The Hidden Strategy: Erasing the Traces of Latinity

It is important to note that:

• until that period, the official motto used was "E Pluribus Unum" (Latin: "Out of many, one"),

• but in the new direction, the Latin motto was practically replaced by an English one,

• in parallel, the Catholic Church abandoned the Latin liturgy in the 1960s (Second Vatican Council),

• after more than 1500 years of exclusive Latin liturgy.

This historic shift indicates an adaptation strategy:

• from visible Latinity (lateinos) toward a broad Christian identity, harder to associate with 666,

• so that the old origin would not be easily detectable.

6. The Current Tension: The USA Asks Europe for "Common Values"

Today, in a new global context marked by moral, social, and political crises, the USA is asking Europe to:

• share the same "traditional Christian values,"

• reaffirm the common Christian heritage in public life.

However, Europe, being deeply secularized, cannot simply adopt the American model of "In God We Trust."
A symbol is needed that is old, historic, culturally acceptable, and sufficiently confessionally neutral to be accepted on a continental level.

7. The Prophetic Solution: "In hoc signo vinces" and the Cross

In this context, I concluded that the natural and prophetic solution is:

• The Latin motto "In hoc signo vinces" ("By this sign you will conquer"),

• The symbol of the Cross (Chi-Rho ☧ or a simple cross).

These:

• originate from the period of the Christianization of the Roman Empire (Constantine, 312 AD),

• are directly linked to the "lateinos" (666) tradition,

• are acceptable to Orthodox, Catholics, and Protestants,

• provide strong moral legitimization without imposing a particular denomination.

Additionally, the Cross is:

• a universal visual symbol,

• much more effective for propaganda than a simple text,

• capable of uniting the Western world into a new moral project.

The Conclusion of My Study

From this analysis, it results that:

• The USA started as a secular Enlightenment project,

• passed through a Christian syncretic synthesis in two major stages (the Civil War and World War II),

• and now is asking Europe to take the same step.

However, the prophetic image that will emerge will not be a direct copy of the American model but will appeal to the old imperial tradition:

• the Cross and "In hoc signo vinces."

This will be the moral and cultural image that will legitimize the new global order, in accordance with the biblical prophecy.