The beast represents the antichrist, a figure who opposes Christ and the kingdom of God. It is described as a powerful, oppressive force that will rise in the end times and attempt to rule the world, and is associated with tyranny, lawlessness, and rebellion against God. In some interpretations, the beast is identified with oppressive empires or systems throughout history, especially the Roman Empire in the context of the original audience of Revelation. The "mark of the beast" represents allegiance to this oppressive force and rejection of God. Following the beast means falling into the temptations and deceptions of this antichrist figure and his system.
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