Revelation 17:18Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The supposition that the woman is the great city ruling over the kings of the earth makes plausible the prophecy concerning the sufferings of the world kingdom of that time.

May God deliver us from the trial of these calamities. May He settle us in the city above, the heavenly Jerusalem. There, as the Apostle says, He Himself will be all and in all, when He abolishes every rebellious principality, authority, and power.

Those who serve Him faithfully He will seat with Himself and will serve them. That is, He will gladden them with the good things prepared for them from the foundation of the world.

It is said: "The waters on which the harlot sits are peoples and multitudes," obviously those over whom the city exercises dominion. How, then, will Rome be made desolate by the kings? For this, as we have understood, is described in the book of Revelation.

Perhaps they will contend for it in battle as for a queen ruling over a strong and populous land that pays tribute. Therefore, in the war for Rome, it must happen that, lying out as the prize of victory, it will suffer from all.

It will be subjected to burning and desolation. It is said: "For God has put into their hearts to do their will." By God's permission this will be accomplished by those who oppose it and desire to seize it.

Unrestrained and luxurious life bore the fruits that became the cause of Babylon's fall.