Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Revelation 13:11. It’s a pretty complex passage, but here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a powerful and deceptive figure rising up in the world – a “beast” – that is meant to be a symbol of evil and chaos. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth…” - This refers to a specific person or group of people, likely described as a political leader or system of government. It’s not just any leader; this one is particularly significant. “…and he had two horns like a lamb…” – This is a key symbol. Lambs are often associated with gentleness and innocence. The fact that this beast has two horns suggests it's trying to appear benevolent or even innocent, but it’s actually designed to be strong and powerful. Think of it as a deceptive facade. "...and he spake as a dragon.” – This is the most striking part! Dragons are typically symbols of power, wisdom, and chaos. The beast is speaking like a dragon – that means it’s boasting, commanding, and using powerful words. It's trying to impress people with its authority through grand pronouncements. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse paints a picture of a leader who is attempting to appear good but is secretly aiming for control and domination. It warns against trusting anyone who presents themselves as benevolent or wise, because this beast represents temptation and evil. It’s a warning about the importance of discerning truth from falsehood. Important Note: The interpretation of the “beast” has been debated throughout history. Some believe it refers to Satan himself, while others see it as representing a system or ideology that is inherently corrupting. Resources for Further Exploration (Optional): Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/Revelation-13:11](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/Revelation-13:11) - This provides a translation and context of the verse in multiple translations. Wikipedia – Revelation 13: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Revelation_13](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Revelation_13) - A good overview of the story and its significance. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss the symbolism of the beast? Talk about how this verse relates to other stories in the Bible?