Definition: And they had a king over them, [which is] the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue [is] Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath [his] name Apollyon.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Revelation 9:11. It’s a really interesting and symbolic passage about the ultimate fate of the world. Here's what it means, explained simply: What it’s saying: This verse describes a powerful, terrifying figure who reigns over the entire world – essentially, everything . It's not just a ruler; it’s a being of immense power and destruction. Let’s unpack the parts: “And they had a king over them…” - This suggests that there was a system of rule or authority in place, but it wasn’t a benevolent one. It was a king who held absolute control. “[which is] the angel of the bottomless pit” – This is the key part! The "bottomless pit" is a very deep and dark hole in the biblical imagination, representing something evil and beyond comprehension. It’s often interpreted as Hell or the underworld. It's a place of utter darkness and despair. “whose name in the Hebrew tongue [is] Abaddon” - The Hebrew word "Abaddon" means “destruction” or “ruin.” So, this angel is named Abaddon – a destroyer. “…but in the Greek tongue hath [his] name Apollyon.” – The Greek word "Apollyon" is similar to "Abaddon," but it carries a much darker connotation. It means "bitter," "painful," or "wrath." It suggests that this angel isn't just destroying, but also inflicting immense suffering and pain. So, putting it all together: The verse describes an evil being – Abaddon – who is the supreme ruler of the entire world. He’s a destroyer, bringing about destruction and suffering. He doesn't rule with kindness or justice; he reigns over despair and pain. What does this mean for us today? This imagery isn’t just about a literal king. It’s a warning about the potential for evil in the world, and the importance of resisting it. The idea that something so powerful and destructive could exist within our own systems or even in the world around us is a significant message. It encourages us to be vigilant against evil and to strive for goodness and righteousness. Important Note: This is a complex verse with various interpretations throughout history. It’s often seen as a prophecy about the end times, but its meaning can also be interpreted metaphorically about the challenges we face today. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Explore a specific aspect of the verse (like its symbolism)? Discuss how this relates to other biblical stories or concepts?