| − | The '''Number of the Beast''' (also referred to as the '''Mark of the Beast''') is a mysterious phrase used in [[Revelation]]:{{cquote|This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666.<ref>Revelation 13:18, ESV.</ref>}}<ref>In some translations the number is 616 rather than 666.</ref>The number seven represents perfection in the Bible. As six is somewhat less than seven, it can be considered beastly. The invitation to calculate implies that a code of some kind is being used. The phrase "number of a man" suggests that the number represents a personal name. The letters of the name "Nero Caesar," emperor at the time Revelation was written, adds up to 666 when written in Hebrew characters. "Many interpreters expect a future, greater fulfillment in a world ruler who is violently opposed to God and his people," according to the ''ESV Study Bible.''<ref>Crossway Bibles. ESV Study Bible (Kindle Locations 330753-330754). Crossway. Kindle Edition.</ref> | + | The '''Number of the Beast''' (also referred to as the '''Mark of the Beast''') is a mysterious phrase used in [[Revelation]]:{{cquote|This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666.<ref>Revelation 13:18, ESV.</ref>}}The number seven represents perfection in the Bible. As six is somewhat less than seven, it can be considered beastly. The invitation to calculate implies that a code of some kind is being used. The phrase "number of a man" suggests that the number represents a personal name. The letters of the name "Nero Caesar," emperor at the time Revelation was written, adds up to 666<ref>In some translations the number is 616 rather than 666.</ref> when written in Hebrew characters. "Many interpreters expect a future, greater fulfillment in a world ruler who is violently opposed to God and his people," according to the ''ESV Study Bible.''<ref>Crossway Bibles. ESV Study Bible (Kindle Locations 330753-330754). Crossway. Kindle Edition.</ref> |