Die Zeit im Bild

Abstract In this article, the question is discussed if at least some passages of the apocalyptic main part of Revelation, which is full of metaphorical imagery, conveys content that referred to contemporary history. The analysis of chosen passages of early Jewish and early Christian apocalyptic literature shows that it is principally conceivable that apocalyptic texts informed by metaphorical imagery can make reference to facts of contemporary history. The interpretation of Rev 13:18 and 17:9a lead to the conclusion that the text Rev 13-17 as a whole, but also the texts Rev 11:1-14 and Rev 17:7-9a, 9b-14 directly reflect persons, events and circumstances of the time of the composition of Revelation.