beasts

Large, often dangerous animals. In the Bible the word has several uses. 1 As a general term for animals (Gen 1:24). 2 As a term for wild, dangerous animals (Rev 6:8). 3 As a pejorative term for human beings (Titus 1:12). 4 As a term for mythical beings or allegorical symbols. In (Dan 7) four different beasts symbolize four kingdoms. In Revelation a beast from the sea symbolizes the Roman Empire (Rev 13:1), a beast from the earth represents the leaders of the province of Asia (Rev 13:11), and a beast from the abyss portrays the Antichrist (Rev 11:7, Rev 17:8).