Some Bible teachers identify the seven-headed beast of Revelation as Islam, others as Rome, and some propose it as an amalgamation of the four beasts from Daniel 7. Each perspective offers compelling points and reasoning, and are all correct in a way and yet also miss an important piece that brings clarity to the puzzle. That missing piece is recognizing that the leopard-like beast of Revelation 13 is NOT the same entity as the scarlet beast of Revelation 17.
Oranges and grapefruits share a similar description, but that doesn’t make them the same fruit. Similarly, the leopard-like beast and the scarlet beast, while described in comparable terms, are different entities.
Now, let’s backtrack to chapter twelve for a moment, where we find the description of a dragon.
Revelation 12:3 And another sign appeared in heaven: behold, a great red dragon, with seven heads and ten horns, and on his heads seven diadems.
We learn who this dragon is a few verses later.
Revelation 12:9 And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, who is called the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.
Just as YHWH’s kingdom will be in His image upon Yeshua’s return, Satan’s kingdoms are crafted in Satan’s image. This is reflected in both the leopard-like beast and the scarlet beast, each adorned with seven heads and ten horns. These features signify that they have the authority and character of Satan.
The studies below delve into the details of each beast, providing a comprehensive understanding of their similarities and differences, which will help make sense of these prophetic visions.