An angel shows John the strange presence of a prostitute. This courtesan, because of her widespread fornications, is described as “great.” Prostitution in the Bible symbolizes the idolatry of the people. They have been unfaithful to the covenant and have committed adultery against God (cf. Neh 3:4; Is 23:16). The Holy Spirit enables the vision of this dreamlike display of evil, embodied in a woman. Later, he will also allow John to observe the bride of the Lamb, the new Jerusalem (21:10).
It is always the Spirit who, with his inspiring power, guides John to a deep understanding of history. The portrayal of this somewhat complex symbolic drama aims to foster a profound attitude of wisdom. The reader and the Christian community must constantly discern who in history takes on these demands of absolute power, proper to God, and who opposes the Church.