17:1 seven angels. The reference to these angels links chapters 17 and 18 with the bowl judgments (ch. 16), which extend to the Second Coming of Christ (see note on 16:17 ). Chapters 17 and 18 focus on one aspect of those bowl judgments, the judgment of Babylon. The judgments already described are identified as targeting the final world system. great harlot. Prostitution frequently symbolizes idolatry or religious apostasy. Nineveh, Tyre, and even Jerusalem are also depicted as harlot cities. sits onmany waters. This picture emphasizes the sovereign power of the harlot. The picture is of a ruler seated on a throne, ruling thewaters, which symbolize the nations of the world(see v. 15).