Revelation 18:13

of cinnamon, spice, incense, myrrh, and frankincense; of wine, olive oil, fine flour, and wheat; of cattle, sheep, horses, and chariots; of slaves and souls of men.

Study Bible

of cinnamon, spice, incense, myrrh, and frankincense
This phrase lists luxurious goods that were highly valued in the ancient world. "Cinnamon" and "spice" were rare and costly, often imported from distant lands, symbolizing the opulence and indulgence of Babylon. "Incense" and "myrrh" were used in religious rituals, indicating the intertwining of commerce and false worship. "Frankincense" was a precious resin used in temple offerings, highlighting the misuse of sacred items for profit. The Greek word for incense, "thymiama," suggests a fragrant offering, which in this context, is corrupted by Babylon's greed.

of wine and olive oil
"Wine" and "olive oil" were staples in the Mediterranean diet, representing both sustenance and celebration. In the biblical context, wine often symbolizes joy and abundance, while olive oil signifies anointing and blessing. However, in Revelation 18, these goods are part of the lament over Babylon's fall, illustrating how even essential and blessed items are tainted by excessive luxury and exploitation.

of fine flour and wheat
"Fine flour" and "wheat" are basic foodstuffs, essential for daily life. Their mention here underscores the comprehensive nature of Babylon's trade, encompassing both luxury and necessity. The Greek term for wheat, "sitos," emphasizes the fundamental sustenance that Babylon controlled, reflecting its economic dominance and the resulting moral corruption.

of cattle and sheep
"Cattle" and "sheep" were vital to the agrarian economy, providing meat, milk, and wool. Their inclusion in this list highlights the extensive reach of Babylon's commerce, affecting all aspects of life. Biblically, sheep often symbolize God's people, and the misuse of such resources points to the exploitation and oppression inherent in Babylon's system.

of horses and chariots
"Horses" and "chariots" represent power and military might. In ancient times, they were symbols of strength and conquest. The Greek word for chariot, "harma," suggests a vehicle of war, indicating Babylon's reliance on force and domination. This phrase underscores the militaristic and oppressive nature of Babylon's rule, contrasting with the peace and justice of God's kingdom.

of slaves and souls of men
This phrase starkly reveals the dehumanizing aspect of Babylon's trade. "Slaves" were considered property, and their mention here highlights the moral decay and exploitation at the heart of Babylon's economy. The phrase "souls of men" goes deeper, indicating not just physical enslavement but also spiritual bondage. The Greek word "psychas" for souls suggests the inner life and essence of a person, emphasizing the profound violation of human dignity and freedom. This serves as a powerful indictment of Babylon's corrupt system, which values profit over people, contrasting sharply with the biblical call to love and serve one another.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Babylon the Great
Symbolic of a powerful, corrupt system or city that is judged by God for its immorality and materialism.

2. Merchants of the Earth
Represent those who profit from the trade of luxurious goods and are complicit in Babylon's sins.

3. Slaves and Souls of Men
Indicates the dehumanizing trade and exploitation of human lives, highlighting the moral decay of Babylon.

Teaching Points

Materialism and Idolatry
The passage warns against the dangers of materialism and the idolatry of wealth. Christians are called to prioritize spiritual riches over earthly possessions.

Human Dignity
The mention of "slaves and souls of men" serves as a reminder of the inherent value of every human life. Believers should advocate for justice and oppose exploitation.

Judgment and Repentance
The fall of Babylon is a call to repentance. Christians should examine their lives for areas of compromise and turn back to God.

Eternal Perspective
The temporary nature of earthly wealth is highlighted. Believers are encouraged to focus on eternal values and invest in God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of Babylon's wealth in Revelation 18:13 challenge our modern views on material success?

2. In what ways can Christians guard against the idolatry of wealth and possessions in their own lives?

3. How does the exploitation of "slaves and souls of men" in this passage relate to current social justice issues, and what can believers do to address them?

4. What lessons can we learn from the fall of Babylon about the consequences of living for worldly gain?

5. How can the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 6:19-21 help us develop an eternal perspective on wealth and possessions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 27
This chapter describes the fall of Tyre, a wealthy trading city, drawing a parallel to the fall of Babylon in Revelation 18.

1 Timothy 6:10
Discusses the love of money as a root of all kinds of evil, connecting to the materialism and greed depicted in Revelation 18.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus teaches about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, contrasting with the earthly wealth of Babylon.