"Little season"

Orthodox view on the problem of the end of the world.

by Alexander Smirnov

The library Golden-Ship.RU 2014

The original text in Russian

freelance translator Anna Zhukovska

The book is intended for free distribution on the Internet.

To communicate with author, e-mail: golden-ship@mail.ru

  In the morning, 'It will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.' Hypocrites! You know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but you can't discern the signs of the times.

(Matthew 16:1-3)

So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these

things, know that it is near, even at the doors.

 (Matthew 24:32,33)

Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1 The beginning and the end of our world

Chapter 2 The Day of Wrath: signs

Chapter 3 "The millennial reign of the saints with Christ"

Chapter 4 1843-1844 years

Chapter 5 "Little season" and animal images

Chapter 6 Numbers

Chapter 7 View from another area

Chapter 8 Conclusion

Introduction

The aim of our research is such a complex and controversial issue, as an attempt to look into the future . In general , is it possible to learn at least in general terms, what we can expect on the basis of information available to us ? This question torments people for a long time . Attempts to look into the future on the basis of Bible prophecies have been taken many times , but each time predictions turned to be false . Not accidentally , the Orthodox Church takes negatively this kind of quest . And this attitude is justified with words of Christ which he s aid to the apostles :

 "And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power" (Acts. 1:7),

and also :

 " But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only " (Matthew 24:36),

neither the Son, but the Father (Mark 13: 32).

  The position of the Orthodox Church is justified since there was a lot of errors because of attempts to predict the date of the end of the world . Those errors resulted in these religious movements , such as Adventism or movement of Jehovah's Witnesses . All attempts carried out previously to determine the date of the end of the world had no success . Whenever the next bubble arose . So, everything that will be discussed later can and should be subjected to critical analysis by the reader.

It is necessary to say right away that the author didn't consider himself neither visionary nor the prophet, and all that will be discussed here is only the result of intelligence. This is nothing more than a warm-up of the mind, just a theory that doesn't aspire to anything . If you wish, it's a gourmet meal for analytical gourmets who enjoy solving complex puzzles . Cause searching for a doomsday date , anyway, is an activity of many people - sometimes just for fun. Man is constituted in the way that he desires to solve any riddle .

  In conclusion of the introductory part let's say a couple of words about the linguistic side of the study. We will use as the canonical Russian and Church Slavic translation of the Holy Scriptures, though these two translations of the content is slightly different . Thus, the canonical translation of the Bible doesn't contain some of the books that exist in the Church Slavonic translation , for example, the Third Book of Esdras , also called the Old Testament Apocalypse , which we will refer to . This discrepancy happened because the Canonical and Church Slavic texts are translations of various sources. Church Slavic is a translation of the Greek Septuagint , and the Canonical text - translation of the Masoretic text (for translating I used King James Version - translator).

Alexander Smirnov

 

Chapter I

The beginning and the end of our world

Let's consider words of Christ : "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons". After the cross death and resurrection from the dead , the Lord appeared to his disciples several times , and preached to them about the kingdom of God (Acts . 1: 3) . Then, it was said:

"Not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. . "(Acts . 1: 4.5 ).

This is very important because the baptism of the Holy Spirit , or the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles at Pentecost, of ordinary people , gathered by Christ in different places of Palestine - in fact, ordinary people - did the prophets. After that they became those apostles, that we know - teachers who spread the gospel throughout the world.

And then, when the Lord told his disciples to wait for the promise , they asked him :

"When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?" (Acts 1: 6) .

Then he told them : "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons". It is necessary to know the history to understand what expectations were associated by Jews with the Messiah - Christ. Israel was under the rule of the Roman Empire . Prophecy also said that the time will come , and there will be the Savior - the One Who will restore justice and make the world a kingdom of the one God. When he appeared , and wasn't recognized by many, and crucified as a criminal , which was also predicted (eg , Isaiah 53, Daniel 9 : 24-27, etc..), Many of his disciples were in confusion, because it didn't pass that they expected. The risen Lord appears and tells them not to leave, but wait for the promise . Naturally, students ask whether it would be promised to restore the kingdom to Israel? And God says to them : "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons".

What does it mean? It means exactly what it says. They asked, and the Lord told them what he had to answer. The mission of disciples of Christ was preaching the good news (the Gospel) and spreading of Christianity throughout the world. And, it seems, for that they really didn't need to know times or dates of the end of human history. The discovery of this mystery through the preaching of all the people wasn't a part of their task. And they got a response.

The Israelites of that time understood "restoring the kingdom to Israel" not quite as the Lord had said. The Jews were waiting for the restoration of an independent state in its historical boundaries, headed by the King, who will subject all the surrounding nations. The fallacy of such expectations is obvious to us, but not for Jews of Christ's time. In fact, what do the promises of God to David mean, about that in his seed the throne shall not be taken forever before the Lord (2 Sam. 8: 12-16)

  "There shall not fail thee a man in my sight to sit on the throne of Israel" (3Kings.8: 25 3Kings.9: 5 2Chronicles.6: 16).

  Cause after a period of three kings (Saul, David and Solomon) a single state in 980 BC, was divided into two irreconcilable parts: the north - Israel - fell in 722 BC, being captured by the Assyrians - and the southern kingdom - Judah, which disappeared from the surface of the earth in the year 70 BC, destroyed by Roman troops.

So, did God lie to David? Or was he wrong? Both assumptions are not valid. People can make mistakes and lie, but not God. Analyzing the history, we can often see the fallacy of certain expectations arising from a misunderstanding of words of the Lord. And in this case, Jews were told not to visible or sensuous reign of Christ, - a descendant of David - but the reign of the spirit, the essence of which wasn't understood by many Jews awaiting the visible reign.

Creator of the universe and Father of all people repeatedly speaks through the prophets about the restoration of Israel , probably understanding the whole world , that must to get rid of misconceptions , going through the cleansing fire of suffering and temptation, a new world, the timing of which hasn't come yet . Probably about "times and seasons" occurrence of this particular kingdom Christ didn't tell his disciples . Meanwhile they were asking him about the earthly kingdom of Israel , about the fate of his beloved homeland.

But let's get back to the phrase of Christ , which is usually interpreted as a prohibition on the search of end date in human history. We can see that the response to disciples from Christ : "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons", is not categorical . The key here is clarifying : "It is not for you". That is, we see a specific reference to historical figures - apostles . This is not approved by the inability to find these " times and seasons" in due time by someone else , or by subsequent generations. That is , you can hear that this case is "Not for you", but for someone else . Categorical prohibition would have sounded different. For example , "it's impossible to anyone to know the times or the seasons", or "Nobody knows the times or the seasons " , etc. Moreover, it is clear from this response that these times exist and are known , but for some reason are not reported to apostles .

However, this is not the only place in Scripture speaking directly about the timing of the end of the world. Much more specifically the following answer of Christ sounds , when disciples asked him about when to wait for His second coming .

"But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only." (Matthew.24: 36 Mark 13:32)

And this response is usually justified by the fundamental impossibility to predict the date of the end of human history. After all, how does one know what is unknown to anyone but God the Father ? But this response states unknown before specific time intervals : day and hour . Categorical prohibition would sound differently , for example: "no one knows about that day", or "nobody knows when it happens". However, they spoke about many specific time categories: day and hour . That is, Christ says it is impossible to predict the day and hour , not "times and seasons" more broadly - the century , decade or year. Again "no man knows" now is not the same as "no man will know". In other words, this response is deprived of absolute categorical and is not an absolute prohibition .

The Bible says a lot about the "last days", and later we will look at these areas in more detail. Here we would like to bring one more quote from the Holy Scriptures , namely words of the prophet Joel, from which it's clear that the Lord didn't put this knowledge to an absolute prohibition. But the only condition is that the secret shouldn't be disclosed until a certain time - as , I think, Christ said to the Apostles .

In Joel we read:

"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the LORD come. ". (Joel 2 : 28-31)

Thus, we see that the Lord wanted at a certain time to open many secrets through ordinary people : in "all flesh", "young men, old men, sons and daughters". That is, before the end of history, God will begin to open to humanity that , until that time, remained hidden . And, of course , "all a lot of things flesh", - the sons and daughters , old men and young men - are not smarter , more talented , or somehow superior to the disciples of Christ , which was said at the time : "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons ". It's obvious.

Question of predestination

What is the future ? From a scientific point of view, there is only a certain probability of certain events , which can be assumed with a certain probability . But from the point of view of various religious movements it can be predestined . For example, Muslims believe in predestination , but their theology doesn't give a precise answer how it relates to the freedom of man's will . Therefore, the Qur'an requires Muslims belief in predestination , but forbids to go into this question.

"You will never completely feel at ease until you firmly believe that Allah already pre-ordained all matters. The pen has dried and has written all that will happen to you, so don't feel remorse over that which is not in your hands. Don't think that you could have prevented the fence from falling, the water from flowing, the wind from blowing or the glass from breaking. You couldn't have prevented these things, whether you wanted to or not. All that has been pre-ordained and shall come to pass "

At the same time, Muhammad tells believers : "And if anyone would mention predestination, then refrain from talking about it". That is, you have to believe that everything happens by the will of God, but it is consistent with freedom of will and choice between good and evil - the mystery , which is dangerous to speculate .

In Christianity, too, we have the belief in predestination , but to different degrees in different streams. Particularly strong belief is in predestination in Calvinism . According to the teachings of John Calvin , God in the beginning of the universe determines the fate of the human soul and can't subsequently change his choice . Man doesn't know exactly is his soul saved or doomed . It can be found only by indirect evidence . So , according to Calvin, success in business means exclusivity, the same failure - doomed to eternal torment.

And it is based on very few quotes , namely:

"For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren". (Romans 8: 29-39 )

"The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. "(Revelation 17: 8)

Here's what Hilarion Alfeyev says about predestination in Orthodoxy :
" The Orthodox tradition, again based on the theological heritage of the Fathers of the Eastern Church, says about predestination of man to salvation in a different way . From the Orthodox point of view, all people created by God are predestined to salvation ; no one is obviously destined for destruction, condemnation or damnation. This is evidenced , in particular, by St Symeon the New Theologian in the interpretation of Rome. 8 : 29-30. To those who " pervert to their own destruction " the words of the apostle he says, " what does it profit me to raise a lot of work to show an appeal to repent, if I'm not God predestined to salvation ?" Simeon says:

" Do n't you hear every day of the Savior: I live, and I don't want the death of the sinner , but I want him to turn and live? Do n't you hear , as he says: Repent, for the kingdom of heaven. Maybe , he said to ones: "I don't repent , because I won't accept you," and to the others , a predetermined " You repent because I foreknew you "? No! But every day in every church He calls all over the world : Come unto me, all the bothered and burdened, and I will give you the rest . Come, he says , burdened by many sins to Him who takes ( away) the sin of the world!

Called to salvation and predetermined to deification is everyone , therefore, justified and glorified can be anyone who wants it. God desires all men without exception to make gods by grace :

Grace of the Holy Spirit seeks to kindle in our hearts to ... approaching the fire - or individually , or if you can, all together - ignited and shone like gods ... I think , and it's the way it actually is , that (this is the will of God for us...

For seven centuries before Symeon the New Theologian and for eleven centuries before Calvin, Eastern Christian tradition in the face of St. John Chrysostom expressed its views on predestination and calling , "If everybody have sinned , why did some survive and others die ? Because not everyone wants to come , although the will of God are all saved , since all are called . " In other words, salvation is predestined and called upon all without exceptions , but saves only those who voluntarily responded to the call of God ; but those who reject God's call is not saved .
Salvation , according to the Orthodox Faith, is the fruit of " synergy" ( cooperation, co-work ) between God and man . This synergy is crucial free will of man , which can be directed to both the good and the evil. If it is directed to evil , it's not because God has predestined, but because a person makes a free choice in favor of evil. If it is directed to the good, then this happens , although the action of God's grace , but again without the involvement of the man himself. The struggle for salvation takes place inside a person , not outside it . The devil can use a variety of means to influence the man, but man is able to stand up to himself . The will of the devil can't destroy a person : the ultimate deciding factor for the fate of man is precisely the direction of his free will to do good or evil.

This doesn't mean that the Orthodox diminish the value of predestination, calling an action of God's grace in the salvation of man . It just means that the Orthodox Christian concept of God is alien punisher , who in all fairness would have to destroy all the people after they turned aside into sin and only by the grace he saves some. The Orthodox Church , following St. Paul , believes that God wants all men to be saved (1 Timothy 2.4 ). The salvation of every person is the result of God's love for all mankind , and not due to the fact that in His unfathomable mercy , God withdraws from " convicted masses " that ones , which are brought with salvation against his equity.

God can and wants to save every human being . But He can't save a person without the participation and consent of the individual. As emphasized by Maximus the Confessor , every person has the right to reject salvation. Salvation for anyone can't be forced : only those will be saved who want to follow Christ. It is in harmony with God's man about his own salvation , in voluntary adherence to the commandments of God the synergy talking about Orthodox theology is . " (" Orthodoxy " Volume 1 Section III Chapter III )

Thus, we see that in the Orthodox Church it' s considered to all men to be predestined to salvation , and no one is predestined to damnation . It seems reasonable, since if only a few places in Scripture can be interpreted in favor of predestination , then a much larger part of the appeals to the people from God speaks in favor of the fact that there is no such thing . That is , we can say that Orthodoxy rejects predestination in the sense in which it's understood by Muslims and Calvinists .

In Scripture, it constantly refers to the need to fight against the temptation , the need to fight against passions , and even that the Kingdom of Heaven is taken by force :

"And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force" (Matthew11: 12)

From the context of this and many similar phrases it is impossible to draw a conclusion about predestination. After all , if it's pre- determined that some will be in the kingdom of heaven , while others will not , then why make the effort ? Then John said not correctly , the Kingdom of heaven is not taken by force , and only one is defined , while others do not. And our efforts are a fiction. But here and in other places it often talks about the need for personal involvement in determining your own destiny. Logic says that the predetermination defeats the purpose of punishment for the wicked and reward for the righteous. What eternal torments punish those who pre- ordered to sin ? Whether they are guilty in this case? No, they are not . After all, they couldn't do otherwise . And what about reward for the righteous ? If they were originally destined to behave this way , and they can't behave differently ? They are worthy ? No . What is the merit of the man himself ? He's like a robot that does the will of the Creator. Orthodox theology , and the logic of any normal person can't reconcile the existence of predestination with the existence of hell for sinners and heaven for the righteous .

And if you look at the same issue from the perspective of everyday experience , you also arrive at the same conclusion . Is it better to believe in fate and do nothing , or do not believe in destiny and take care about creating their own future ? In many ways, the second approach to life is more reasonable.

But if there is no predetermination of what we are told by our theology , reason and experience of life , then what words from Revelation about "written in the book of life from the foundation of the world" (Revelation17: 8) can mean and how it may be known to those or other facts from non-predefined future that are even written in the Holy Scriptures ?

God's Foresight

Objectively, there are knowledge about the future . There are facts recorded in the sacred books and have already came true , such as the prediction of Cyrus - conqueror of Babylon. Denying that such knowledge laid in Scripture is impossible . But how to reconcile this with the lack of predestination ? The answer to this question may be the following. There is no predestination , since, as has already been said , predestination and free will of the individual are mutually exclusive , but God's foreknowledge , or knowledge , that is accomplished in the end , knowing what would be the story of people who are free in their actions. God simply knows the story from the beginning to the end of days . There is intervention in the course of events , of course, and there is a certain predetermination of global processes ( what we would consider in the future, in the seventh chapter , the example of the Elliott Wave Theory ), but it doesn't apply to human freedom. Therefore, we , as free creatures responsible for their own future , take responsibility for our actions . And that's what we commit our own free will , what is known to God. This explanation helps us to understand the phrase "not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world". There are people who have lived , live or will live the life of iniquity, and it isn't predetermined , but it's known to God from the beginning of the world . God's foreknowledge is not contrary to the freedom of the will of man , and the use of this postulate can explain many paradoxes .

God knows the whole story from beginning to end . Moreover, he shares with the people a part of this knowledge through the prediction and prophecy. Probably aware of the effect of this knowledge , so to speak, the final version of the story. It's a mistake to think that this knowledge can put the predicted performance . So Jews were informed in advance that Christ will come in the basest form , won't be recognized , would be betrayed for 30 pieces of silver , killed and resurrected.

Predictions about Christ recorded in the Bible:

Birth from the seed of the woman

" And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. "   ( Gen . 3:15).

Birth of the Virgin

" Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel "(Is. 7:14)

Will be the Son of God

"... I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee ... "( Ps. 2:7); (1Chr. 17:11-14); (2 Kings . 7:12-16).

Birth in Bethlehem

" But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting . "(Micah.  5:2).

Will teach with parables

" In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord: my sore ran in the night, and ceased not: my soul refused to be comforted . "(Ps. 77:2).

Messiah must come to the Temple

" ... and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple ... ( Mal . 3:1).

Betrayal of close one

" Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me. " ( Ps . 41:9).

Shall be betrayed for 30 pieces of silver , which will be spent by chief priests to buy the land from a potter to bury.

" And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver. And the LORD said unto me, Cast it unto the potter: a goodly price that I was prised at of them. And I took the thirty pieces of silver, and cast them to the potter in the house of the LORD ".   ( Zechariah 11:12,13)

Shall be beaten and spat upon

" I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting " (Is. 50:6); (Micah. 5:1).

Hands and feet will be pierced

". .. they pierced my hands and my feet. "( Psalm . 22:16).

Will be crucified by transgressors

".. . because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors .. ."( Is. 53:12).

Resurrection

".. . For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. "( Ps. 16:10)

  And it's just a small part of information that Jews had at the time of coming of Jesus Christ. In the Old Testament there are more than three hundred theologians predictions about the Messiah were fulfilled in Jesus Christ. But this knowledge is not affected by the actions of the chief priests . Of course, we mustn't forget that the language of the Scriptures is always rife with allegories , parables and metaphors , so that even the knowledge given by God was often not understood (not understood by many ), and had no significant effect on the general course of history.

In conclusion , we should quote from the book The Wisdom of Solomon , which is in Church Slavonic translation of the Bible , aborted later Jewish scribes ( Masoretes), and therefore not included in the canonical Russian Synodal Bible text . Undoubtedly, this book was known to Jews at the time of Christ , but still they could not , or did not want to understand of whom it was said. In a few paragraphs it told almost the entire Gospel story . Son of God, denouncing the unjust, and their plan to kill Him , and His Resurrection , called " salvation." It was said that he " will stand" before their faces and unmask them after his death , which they regarded as disgraceful and shameful .

  "Let us lie in wait for the righteous man, because he is inconvenient to us and opposes our actions; he reproaches us for sins against the law, and accuses us of sins against our training. He professes to have knowledge of God, and calls himself a child of the Lord. He became to us a reproof of our thoughts; the very sight of him is a burden to us, because his manner of life is unlike that of others, and his ways are strange. We are considered by him as something base, and he avoids our ways as unclean; he calls the last end of the righteous happy, and boasts that God is his father. Let us see if his words are true, and let us test what will happen at the end of his life; for if the righteous man is God's son, he will help him, and will deliver him from the hand of his adversaries. Let us test him with insult and torture, that we may find out how gentle he is, and make trial of his forbearance. Let us condemn him to a shameful death, for, according to what he says, he will be protected. "". (The Wisdom of Solomon 2 : 12-20)

"Then the righteous man will stand with great confidence in the presence of those who have afflicted him, and those who make light of his labors. When they see him, they will be shaken with dreadful fear, and they will be amazed at his unexpected salvation. They will speak to one another in repentance, and in anguish of spirit they will groan, and say, "This is the man whom we once held in derision and made a byword of reproach - we fools! We thought that his life as madness and that his end was without honor. Why has he been numbered among the sons of God? And why is his lot among the saints? "(The Wisdom of Solomon 5: 1-5 )

  Not surprisingly, later Masoretes didn't include this book in the main text of the Bible , and it preserved , as another ten books , referred to as non-canonical , thanks to the Septuagint - the translation of the Scriptures into Greek , made ​​more than 200 years before the birth of Christ by seventy Jewish translators for the king Ptolemy Philadelphus ( 285-246 BC) . Of course , these texts were known to the chief priests and scribes , crucifying Christ.

Thus, science doesn't investigate the future because there's no the subject of research for science , by and large, there is only a certain likelihood of certain events . But from a religious point of view, the future can exist as something concrete . And theological thought trying to explain why there are predictions that come true . Some religions explain it in predestination , or , in other words - originally created version of world history, until predetermined every action of every person. But in this case it's impossible to reconcile the existence of free will of man with punishment for sin and reward for righteousness . Predetermination of human lives deprives these concepts make sense. And in various religious teachings , this paradox is solved differently . Islam claims that predestination exists, but doesn't allow its followers to think about it. Protestants -calvinists believe in predestination , and even though that some people initially ordained to eternal destruction , which, of course , is absurd. But Orthodoxy assumes that all people are predestined to salvation , but it depends on the will of man. That, in a sense, is not predestined at all. We do bold assumption that God predestined laws, but not the fate of people . For example , there is the law of development of living systems : birth, growth, blossoming , aging and death - and this law applies both to the person and the individual nations and the whole world . But not everyone can be predetermined. God as a father loving his children can't prejudge the commission of sin, and through that - to the subsequent eternal torment . But God can know what will happen and how . And maybe even share some of this knowledge to humanity through the prophecies spoken by the prophets.

"For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost". (2Pet.1: 21)

Creation of the World   [3]

Creation of the world , according to Genesis , is not instantaneous act , but process occurring in time. The text refers to " days", although the question of the duration of these creative "days" remains in the shadow .

The biblical word " iom" translated as " day" is the word - symbol. It can mean , and day and night , and a time and period , and generally any large or small amount of time. However, it is clear that the Bible doesn't talk about our calendar day for it is said of the days long before , as it is written about the sun and the change of day and night. Therefore, to understand the " iom" in the sense of the earth day is not possible. It is also evidenced by the fact that in the second chapter the word " iom" already indicated all the time of creation : "These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created, in the day (iom) that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens "(Gen. 2 , 4). In the Slavonic text " iom" is translated as the word " day", and in Russian - as "time" .

In IV century, one of the founders of the Christian theology St. Basil the Great wrote in his " Hexaemeron" that the biblical "days" can't be understood in the sense of ordinary Earth days , they are a kind of special divisions of time . The Psalmist writes:

"For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past" (Ps. 90: 4)

All this testifies to the fact that the biblical word " iom" is a period of time during which the changes occur. Each space "day " of creation is not just a single , followed by another , but it contains a particular type of being, a certain stage of development of the world, something specific that is peculiar only to him , and it means a definite system of similar formations that have arisen in the world. Each " iom" distinguished periods : first "evening" , then "morning" . Thus, instead of the usual set of our life and order, when we start the day in the morning and finish it in the evening , there is a different procedure : first evening , then morning. This unusual for us temporal sequence appears to indicate that it's an ordinary chronological change of events - beginning and end. We assume that the words "evening" and "morning" symbolically mean the limits of qualitatively different states of being . Maybe there the idea is expressed that the beginning of each stage of the universe is hidden from the eyes in the darkness of the " evening", that is the end of the previous "day" .

Establishment of a new process must be transparent in the dark for the next evening "evening" and at " morning" it is born as already committed action . The creation will be completed by "morning" , which will be the beginning of a never-ending "day" in which there will be no " evening." All intended to being in never-evening , endless realms of glory when "God may be all in all" ( 1 Cor. 15 , 28) [3]

We see that the Bible doesn't give us an exact knowledge of the length of time of creation of the world. We only know that it happened in six periods , the duration of which is unknown to us . However, it is believed able to reconcile scientific knowledge about the great age of the earth with the religious . Its meaning is that the universe could have been created as well as Adam, who according to legend was created by God from the age of 30 . Almighty God could similarly create and the entire universe with age , which is now determined by scientists .

Thinking reader in an allegorical description of the creation of the world can see the deeper meaning. After all, Scripture gives a simplified formula of creation. And the literal interpretation is often harmful and wrong. Although we can't exclude the possibility that God created the world in a period of one week 7500 years ago, just at the age of several billion years , just as He created Adam - once in the early thirties . Also, we can't exclude that period - " iom" - is a kind of "cosmic day" with the corresponding cosmic duration. Scripture doesn't give us more precise information on this matter.

So it's said that the world was created for several periods of indefinite duration . In addition, we know from Scripture that our world had a beginning and will also have an end . It is said that the end of our world is not absolute, not death in the usual sense , but the transformation , the transition from one period to the new, unprecedented , and even, one might say, the unthinkable . In a sense , of course, it is death, but the Christian death associated with the resurrection of a new glorified , transfigured form . As the apostle Paul said "Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die". ( 1 Cor. 15:36)

This is the Christian understanding of death. Such is the death of our world, which has not to die and disappear, but to stop its former existence , to be reborn in a fresh , elegant, unthinkable for the human mind form.

E nd of the old world and beginning of new one   [4]

In the Creed we read that Christ's kingdom will have no end , as well it is referred many times in the Bible (eg , Daniel 7 : 14.22 Bow 1:33 Revelation 22 : 5). Lord Jesus Christ, according to the commission of the court, shall call His worthy to inherit the kingdom prepared for them .

Bliss of eternal life in the kingdom of Christ consists of the contemplation of God , the fullness of the knowledge of God , close communion with God . There is a transition from faith to knowledge. Comparing the experimental knowledge of God , which reaches the faith and of the Holy Spirit in the life of the righteous , so that will be displayed in the eternal kingdom of Christ , St. The Apostle Paul writes:

"For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known "( 1 Cor. 13: 9-10,12 )

Perfect knowledge of God , in turn, give the man a perfect adoration . Ap. John the Evangelist writes in this regard:

"Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is ". (1 John 3 : 2).

John testifies that in the kingdom of Christ

"...God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away . "(Rev.21: 4)

Thus, those sufferings that befall a man in this life , especially those which are also in connection with his testimony about Christ, are disproportionately rewarded with eternal bliss in the kingdom of Christ. For as spoken by the prophet Isaiah :

"For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him" (Is. 64: 4 ; 1Cor . two : 9)

The unspeakable human language of eternal bliss of the righteous in Christ is written by the Holy Fathers . "What will be the glory, what a joy , - exclaims the martyr Cyprian , bishop. Carthage - worthy to ripen God and with Christ , the Lord thy God , to experience the joy of salvation and eternal light ; welcome Abraham and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the patriarchs and prophets , and apostles, martyrs ; with the saints and friends to enjoy the sweetness of God bestowed immortality - to get what eye has not seen , ear has not heard , and that the heart of man has ascended !" (Epistle IV)

" The kingdom of heaven is contemplation - indicates communication . Basil the Great . Now, as in a mirror , we see the shadows of things ; and subsequently freed from this earthly body and put on the body incorruptible and immortal , will see their prototypes . See , if his life Justices to the right path , and we will take care of the true faith , without which no one will see the Lord "( Epistle to the monks of Caesarea ). [4]

What will happened with Earth?   [5]

  Christianity predicts the death of the world from the fire, but not in the sense of the final destruction of this world, but in the sense of change , renewal, reinstatement of intact world: a world catastrophe is only a restoration, a transformation . This prediction of the ultimate global catastrophe is in the books of the Old and New Testament.

Four phrases particularly strong certify us that the present heaven and earth won't be destroyed by fire at all, but that they will be changed only for the best - new :

"Look for new heavens and a new earth" ( 2 Pet. 3 , 13);

"And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea ". (Rev. 21: 1)

"For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind" (Is. 65:17)

"The new heavens and the new earth, which I will make". (Is. 66:22)

So . But would these "new heavens " and "new earth" be brand new, having no relation to the old - the newly created ? No - and this answer is based not only on the idea of ​​the wisdom of God , which would be incompatible extermination that time already created, but also on the text of the prophecies themselves , we presented above . Refer to them. In (Isaiah 65:17 ) and (Isaiah 66:22 ), the word is expressed through a new " Hadash", which does not mean : another, brand new, no relation to the old ( these concepts would require for themselves rather the word " Acher" ), but means renovating the old and is often used in the sense of " young" or " rejuvenated", " fresh", for example, (Lev. 26:10 ), (Job . 29:20 ); as well as in the sense of " unheard of", for example . ( Ecclesiastes. 1: 9.10 ), (Ex. 1: 8) , (Ps. 33: 3 ). In (Isa. 65:17 ) the word "create" is expressed through the " bara", which doesn't always mean creation out of nothing , it is often used in the creation of something special, new , for example, (Jeremiah 31:22 ); for the same in (Isa. 66:22 ) the word "create" is expressed by " asa", which means to do anything of the finished material , and a synonym of the verb " yatsar", that is "to form" (Genesis . 1: 1.27 , Genesis . 5 : 1.2 , Genesis . 3: 21 , Genesis . 8 , 6, 1 Sam. 8:12 Genesis . 1: 7, 16, Life . 2: 2) .

The main foundation of our hope for a new heaven and a new earth is the belief of the whole Church , anciently stored it explicitly on V Ecumenical Council , condemned the opinion of Origen , that the present heaven and earth will be destroyed completely and new ones will be re-created from scratch. The idea of ​​a future world in general and catastrophe of the essence of it, as a renewal of the world , is found in all the Fathers and Teachers of the Church . Let's show how it's expressed in some of them.

St . Justin the Philosopher : "... we claim that the world will burn ."

St . Irenaeus : " the essence and substance of creation vanish away (for true and strong One who gave it) , but it goes way of the world, that is what will happened ... When the disorder will pass away this way and people will be renewed and rise from incorruption , then the new heaven and the new earth . shall appear "

St . Basil the Great : " The world needs to change if the state of souls and go into a different kind of life. For, as real life has qualities akin to this world: and the future existence of our souls will get lots of their state . "

St . Macarius the Great , " every creation is ordained by God to its collapse and will move to heaven and earth ."

St . Cyril of Jerusalem : " the end of this world will comeand the created world will be updated. Inasmuch as corruption, tatba ( theft) and fornication, and every kind of sin cast on the ground , blood to blood (Hosea 4: 2) is a mixture in the world; a wonderful abode to these creatures won't stay forever full of iniquity , this world pass away , in order to appear again the best ... Lord cler heavens not to destroy them, but to bring them again in the best possible way . "

St . Ephraim the Syrian : "On the day when the righteous will be resurrected , heaven and earth will be renewed ." He elsewhere says, " heaven and earth will be updated by the Lord at our resurrection , and he will release the creature and rejoice with us. Earth , our mother , suffered reproach with us, underwent a curse for sinners ; but for the righteous Boly (someone empathize) bless our wet nurse and along with her ​​children will update her. "

Blessed Jerome , " Clearly shown that the death and destruction of the world is not handling it in nothing but in a change for the best. Think about it : image is transformed, not the substance . The same is expressed by Peter ( 2 Peter 3:13) ... He said: you'll see other heavens , other land, but the old and ancient will change for the better . "

St . Gregory of Nyssa , recognizing the end of the world due to his createdness and assuming the same incomprehensible end as incomprehensible beginning of the world, (Heb. 11: 3) says : "... we will be guided by faith and hearing the word of God , proclaiming the need to stop the creatures . And what it will be - these things should be removed from our objects of curiosity "; however ... "how to recognize the power of God's will be enough to create creatures from non-existent ; so the transformation of created by erecting the same force , we believe not in anything incredible . And with faith, " we assume that the creation of the universe out of nothing, and having learned the Scriptures , we have no doubt that it will once again be transformed into a different kind of state . " This multitude of witnesses should be sufficient .

Start of the updating of the world (although only the beginning ) can already be seen in the miracles that made ​​by the Lord Jesus Christ during His earthly life , miracles that returns nature to the path of its normal activity; these miracles is the beginning and the guarantee of man's liberation from irrational nature, freedom from the bondage of corruption (Romans 8:21). Countless healing committed by Savior shows that the disease shouldn't exist : there will be no blind (Matthew . 9: 27-31) (John 9: 1-7 ), no lepers (Luke . 5 : 12-23 ), no relaxed (Matt. 9 : 2-7), nor deaf and mute (Mark . 7 : 32-35), no fever (Mark 1: 30-31) , no dropsy (Luke . 14: 2-4) , no any other diseases , there will not be even death (Matt. 9 , Luke . 8 Mp . 5, Bow . 7 : 12-15, John . 11: 11-14) . Elements will be obedient and harmless for man ; there will not be destructive storms (Matt. 14: 32-33 ; Mr 6:51; John . 6:18 , 21) and hunger ( Matt. 14; Mr.8 , Luke. 9 , John 6 ), etc.

All this is a pledge of future full restoration of nature. Although this restoration wasn't accomplished de facto , but we believe in it completely . If sin is destroyed , its consequences will be destroyed too ; if a person is restored and redeemed, if it is removed from the curse ( Gal. 3:13) , and that the earth and all creation will be restored , and from it, a defiant , the curse will be lifted , "For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly , but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope "(Rom. 8: 20-21). So, the man freed from the evils of sin and death - this wouldn't be enough, atonement would seem incomplete , we would feel a loophole if the world has not been corrected and updated. In fact, what would have happened otherwise with the definition of God given to man : "Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth" (Gen. 1:28)? Meanwhile, the word of God should be constant and real... On the other hand , what if this land would be a dark spot on a bright background of the universe, what if it would destroy with its useless and aimless existence of global harmony? Undoubtedly so .

No, man won't get everything if his land -soaked with tears of millennial suffering land won't be returned to him; the land, which he has a strong , organic and absolutely not random connection with : the man even came out of the land , the land in the full sense of his mother , for earthly existence he created, for it is only on this land a man determined to live and evolve , mature and disclose the fullness of life of his spirit . But to become a home for the people who will be resurrected with glorified bodies, the land must completely change its appearance , in accordance with changes in humans, it should be transformed into a paradise . Thus, the transformation of the land is in close connection and relationship with respect to the resurrection of the dead : not only a time of the transformation of the world depends on resurrection , but also a main need of it : the transformation of the world should be , because there will be a resurrection of the dead ; in respect the time this relationship can be expressed as : the transformation of the earth will not be before the Resurrection , both must be brought together.

When will the full recovery of the world come? It's an idle question... One must assert with certainty that the story step by step comes to a head , and that the latter gradually and naturally by being prepared for it , end of the world comes, as the ripe fruit of its thousand-year history . .. it will be truly biblical sense of the fullness of times, it was the manifestation of God in the world , the Son of God in the flesh. End of the world is called to St . Scripture of the harvest - a word that could not be better expresses the naturalness, the naturalness of the end (Matt. 13:30, 39 ), nothing violent , no surprise in the end, the world itself is to him, he matures to an end, as matures bread on the field for the harvest , it comes just as the spring comes , old age, etc.

" And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees; When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. " (Luke 21: 29-31; Matt. 24: 31-32).

St . Gregory of Nyssa shows death and destruction of the world not any external with respect to the life of the world , not forced relating thereto event, but an event of conformity to law , reasonable, tightly within the context of the world of life; he sees " a law under which no chance the transition from life to the desired mournful state, but a certain kind of time and lasted grievous bodily this life waiting for the end , the whole performance ." "Therefore, we should n't grieve for short-term slowdown put my trust ... If anyone predict any experienced person , that during the summer will be picking fruit , full of storage , and the table will be full fare during this abundance : a flurry of activity , he will , if the wish to hasten the onset of this time has yet to sow ... time certainly comes at a certain date ". This time will come when Christianity will perform their mission on earth when leaven will leave the whole lump (Matt. 13:33 ), when the branches of the tree of Christian cover a whole earth (Matt. 13: 31-32 ; Matt. 24:14 ).

To do this , first of all, Christianity must be preached throughout the world ..... The world will stand as long as humanity will still be able to spiritual fermentation, while it beats life ; then it has decided everything and it will be nothing left to worry , because laziness and apathy took the place of spiritual energy - the world's end , and with it the world all ripe and overripe , all grown old , and became incapable of life ; leaven became superfluous : there is nothing to ferment , cause fermentation and life are impossible.

By the end of the world there will be clearly marked devastation of all that it is: both nature and humanity. Everything will then be the most miserable and sad picture of old age , not to any fit , decay and destruction; everywhere all the faded , decrepit , incapable of further movement . Let's show this picture in the form in which it draws by the word of God.

In public and social order everywhere there's confusion , coups and hesitation. In international relations, not the coveted world dreamed of current civilization will rule , but the fierce hostility which the world hasn't s een yet from the outset : "For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom" (Mark 13: 8) ; inside states - confusion (Article 8). Thus, the socio -political system is represented swayed in the basis . Moral corruption reaches the extreme limits : instead of love "iniquity shall abound" (Matt. 24:12), and people will do well in all kinds of evils (2 Timothy 3 : 1-9); religious feeling scanty (1 Timothy 4: 1-2 , and 2 Timothy 3: 8); science will flourish , and many will work for it, but will not succeed in the knowledge of the truth (2 Tim 3: 7) .

Actually , the last time will be a time of extreme shredding of the human spirit , which will reduce their [ spiritual] needs to a minimum and in this minimum ( morality, religion and science ) it would be fruitless ; people will be unable and unworthy to live , because they will no longer be a people at all, stoop to animals that don't need anything , except to meet the limited needs of animals (Matthew 24 : 37-39).

If we turn from people to nature, we noticed in it the following explicit decomposition and destruction. Laws of nature no longer apply with the same force and accuracy , the productive power of its waning : the impoverishment of the soil , and because of this widespread famine , infectious epidemic , earthquake, " fearful events" on earth and in heaven - meteorological and astronomical - all signs that the mechanism of nature is upset and refuses to work . Everything in it is unscrewed , unglued , broken, and that is why everything goes wrong , as it should be : a little too abundant rain , the drought , the storm , the calm ; the farmer has nothing to do in the field, the sailor - in the sea, and "there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows" (Matt. 24: 7 ; Mark 13: 8 Luke 21 11 , 25,26 ).

Here's a picture of St . Ephraim of Syria for the time before the second coming : " ... will be .. serious famines , plagues long , incessant earthquakes throughout the diminishing food , great tribulation, distress everywhere , incessant death, a great fear , a sudden thrill . Then the heavens won't give rain , the earth won't bring fruit sources of runs , rivers will dry up . The grass won't grow , not seem to land the green ; trees frostbitten at the roots won't give offspring ; fish and whales at sea will die . And the sea will emit a stench and such a terrible noise that people will fall unconscious and die of fright . "

From such a decrepitude and decay of nature there' s only one step to complete her death and destruction. Thus, the end is natural and necessary link in the chain of world events , the finishing point of the world process , organically included in this new world of the last century and the future - the natural fruit of this world and of the present century . According to E. Gyudera, future and present world are so integrally connected one to another , that "only the end of one makes it possible for another, and with the beginning of one end of the other becomes possible ... So their attitude to each other is the same as the ratio of the scattering and growth to harvest and picking fruit (Einsammlung) ".

New world needs the destruction of the old one , as smoldering grain - for plants, as death - for the resurrection : "Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die" ( 1 Cor. 15:36) , and: "Verily, verily , I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: ​​but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit ". (John 12:24) " This land - says Shplittgerber - should upgrade to a fiery grave (Feuergrab) " and , although in a different form , " but still go through the same process of decomposition and decay, what our body is exposed to glorify ... end of the world is like a death, the renewal of the world - the resurrection of the beast ". In this beautiful comparison end of the world with the death and the resurrection with updates is more than just a successful metaphor.

In what will be the change of the earth and how it will relate to the now existing forms of life ? What is going to be a new heaven and a new earth ? Since the earth will be a place of heaven and the new earth and paradise are same things , the last question can be made in another way: what is heaven?

Earth in essence won't be something quite different from what it is now , but still it changed beyond recognition - to such an extent that it can justly be called new . All the real damage in the land , every disorganization , a regular order will be destroyed : there will be no decay, variability and inconsistency , which now seems a law of nature to us (Rom. 8:21), there will be no death and disease (Rev. 21: 4 ) . And how beautiful the new earth will be, psalmist in 83 ps. makes it clear. "(O God!) For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand." (Ps. 84: 10).

In the same way Holy Fathers imagine the heaven . According to St. John Chrysostom , the present creation won't be destroyed , but will change for the best . " Not only you , but also everything smaller than you - unreasonable and irresponsible -will take part with you in those (future) benefits . Creature will free from corruption work , that is, it won't be changing anymore , but will get better, respectively glory of its body ... As a nurse wet enjoys benefits of her nursling - the king's son at the same time - when he will ascend to the throne, so the creature will ". St . Hilary says in one place about the day, " when we depart from any change , when there will be neither cold nor heat, nor night, nor seasons , but will be eternal day and pleasant temperance. Predetermining the rest of the day already in the wilderness, the Lord did soften the heat of the day for his people with pillar of cloud , and the cold of the night and darkness - with pillar of fire . "

Ephrem the Syrian gives lengthy description of paradise in the song "About Heaven " (esp . 9-11) . Especially wonderful qualities belongs to the air of paradise with winds that your breath is saturated with the inhabitants of the heavenly delicacies , then serve as drink , then irrigate cool or anoint - similar to the way they bring the food grain supply to the plant ; Eden air is "the sea of pleasure ", it "with its heavenly breath makes people immortal ." It's not surprising that with such air there are no harsh months of storms and winds there, " dominated by peace and quiet ," where " eternal spring and every month scatter flowers around Paradise " ... and " endless stream of pours works ," flowing with "sources of wine, milk and honey ", where trees bear fruit four times a year , where nature is so productive that " paradise tree fruit like an unbroken chain : if all the first fruits are gathered, the second and third fruit appear behind them " , where the trees " at the bottom covered with flowers at the top are full of fruits " , where " a sense is drowning in the waves of pleasure, which are poured out on everyone in all possible forms . "

In paradise there , like the former, fruit-bearing tree of life. That what our earth once will be, in the image of God's Word and the Church Fathers . It's impossible to understand literally description of the paradise by the holy fathers and St . Scripture , at least - are everywhere: there're not enough words in our language to talk about the future of Earth , where nature doesn't change substantially , but changes in the form in which her life and work expressed , that it will be something entirely new in relation to present. Though on the new earth all forms of phenomena of this earth will continue their living , but these forms will change, improve, and build a whole order of life in the present nature - as well ; Who can now imagine a land without spring, winter , and other seasons , with no day and night, without heat and cold , life without infancy and old age , disease and death , and so on? Even abnormal things are so firmly in the general order of life, that it seems normal , legitimate and natural.

Generally , we can only make guesses about the future , and we know about it only partly (1Cor. 13: 9 ): "men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him. ". (Is 64: 4 ) (1Cor. Two : 9); "How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter" ( 2 Cor. 12: 4 ) Holy Fathers are thinking in the same way , for example, St . Hilary says, " the concept of hearing and vision are inapplicable to the future benefits , and all that eternal blessing, which promises a blissful people who are not subject to contemplation, is not perceived by hearing and not understood by the intellect ."

According to St. Ephrem the Syrian , " sacred bosom of paradise is un available for contemplation ", and therefore , in describing of heaven , he warns readers from a literal understanding of the description of it : "Who listens to the description of paradise , he can't judge it , because the description of paradise is not subject to the court . By name of paradise one might think it's an earth , but with its strength , it' s spiritual and clean... Who says , except for names taken from objects visible , can't show the invisible to listening . Paradise is clothed with names akin to you, because your nature is weak and small against its greatness ; although its beauty is diminished when it's outlined with weak, akin to you , images ... God gave trees of paradise names of our trees ... its leaves are shown like a leaves , which we can see . "

In any case from all descriptions of paradise one thing is certain: that the new earth won't be in the exact sense of the new - in essence, a huge change will occur only in the form . Our desire to see in the future new earth in fact our old mother - earth suffering, is not accidental. We were so sick at the thought that everything perfect , nice to us on this earth ever will be destroyed , that we can't come to terms with it , and the desire of our hearts is ready to stand up with the help of all the reasons , which we can only put to use , for example, the idea of wisdom , the goodness of God , etc. Here are samples of this .

Gebrat thinks to a change in the sense of creation (Romans 8: 19-21) with the goodness of God. This change " we can expect from the love ( of God). After all, we mustn't think that God created the animals only for the land, which for them is mostly uninterrupted pain and suffering . " " We're pretty sure - says Shplittgerber - that all the different creatures will continue to exist on the new earth , especially the noblest breeds of vegetable , animal and mineral kingdoms, but only in the best shape and consisting of imperishable matter , splendid and beauty , which we hardly can now also have even the most remote image about ... We can't find the courage to think that at one time amazing shapes in different areas of nature will be completely annihilated, which now are feasting our heart and eyes.

Is it possible that there was a time of completely non-existent of all wealth of flowers with a wonderful play of colors , the singing of birds , all the wealth of other animal kingdom , deep blue skies , whimsical play of light on the sea, and all the other things we are surprised by on this imperfect earth ? On the contrary , will the sun and the stars shine brighter once than the present , will the land dress up as a bride , and every single creature will show up in truly great shape ? "

If several peer into these and similar statements ... , we can see in them a deep psychological lining : this lining , except habits to all local , is psychological , say more , morally impossible for us to imagine that all that we are now living and breathing to get stronger and mature than all the power of the human spirit , all the great , beautiful and noble things in our spirit - all these will disappear , and, consequently , it's a lie, a mirage , meaningless. Opposite, we are convinced that both art and poetry, and science , in a word, everything manifest themselves as noble part of our mind, everything is not accidental and meaningless , but rooted in timeless , essential aspects of its nature, and therefore it can't be stopped.

How repugnant to us is the idea of ​​an impersonal pantheistic or historical ( in people's minds) immortality , so disgusting is immortality of the earth in the sense of its perfect upgrade , that is, replacing it with different earth, destroying everything organically on it and significantly related to the life of our spirit . Future life is the continuation of this one : all great , high and beautiful here will be there , all important , all native to our soul things will be here and there; otherwise there is nothing high , beautiful and dear for us - everything's just a dust.

Christianity promises us that all of this not only will be , but will be better and in more perfect form. In this we can be assured with one Christian teaching of the resurrection of the dead. According to that, our body - not a prison of the soul , not a dirty dress with disgust thrown to the ground , but the flesh and blood , the body of the soul. Man and the spiritual life - the organic unity of mind and body ; this body is an essential part of ourselves , and the body will be returned to us - the body in which we are all familiar and dear : and the eyes that admired the beauty of the God'sworld and works of human art , and ears , reveals to us the entrance to a magical world of musical harmony , - all the senses , through which the soul enters into relations with the marvelous world of God , it will all be returned to us .

His own boy will be returned to everyone, for the body is as individual as everything in nature - and the more individual that they make up the organic unity of the individual souls ; so I could live it and not the other one , I need my body ( I = body + soul) . So, we were promised , in essence, with the same body , which we have now ; basic type of it will be the same, and a body will be given not common to all , but his own to everyone , in the form these bodies will change beyond recognition with given to them the highest form in which they can exist .

In the Christian doctrine of the resurrection of the dead we can see how sympathetic the religion is to the eschatological expectations of humanity , to his pia desideria regarding the future expected by the world and humanity . Only this teaching, as it so clearly expressed in the Holy Scripture, can serve us for a pledge that lies above expectations. On the other hand , the doctrine of the resurrection is a model of how they will be fulfilled. What promised to bodies - the same will be done with the land : its material composition , material essence will remain unchanged , as in this regard bodies will remain unchanged , but the laws and order of events on the ground, land on its formal side will be changed in the same way as in regard of our bodies . Finally , the earth and the body will change beyond recognition and in the direction of the highest perfection , the most perfect forms of life , which is only possible ; both the body and the earth , after the death, destruction, will rise from the ashes of it in such splendor and magnificence , which we now can't anticipate :

 " It doth not yet appear what we shall be "(1John 3:2) [5]

Understanding the signs of the times

 

There was the beginning of our world, so there will be the end, but as I said, the end is not in the sense of destruction and extinction, but in the sense of transformation. In contrast to the time of creation , which consisted of several periods of unknown duration , the final of our world can be designated by the year , day and even an hour ( Mt. 25: 13). There will be a complete change of nature. Change of the space : what is called as the creation of a "new heaven " and " new earth" ( Is.65: 17 Is.66 : 22 Revelation 21 : 1). Change of the time : there is no night , and death will not be too ( Revelation 22: 5 Revelation 21 : 4). Change of the matter: people will get new ideal body ( 1Cor.15: 51) . Change of animals( Isaiah 11: 6 Is.65 : 25) . All of nature will be upgraded and improved .

This knowledge is religious . Scientific knowledge about the future is virtually absent. There are only theories, which there are both optimistic and pessimistic , but always the theories , assumptions with varying degrees of probability. This is understandable, because for the researcher it's not possible to look at the world from the outside - from the area where it is not ruled by time. Therefore, science can only speculate . We can only get knowledge about the future from religious texts . But religious texts are not unique , and sometimes they can be very broadly interpreted by virtue of their specificity. Because many of them are metaphorical , sometimes written in the languages ​​of long-extinct , and often is transmitted through images that are understandable to residents of the past. Therefore, we don't have clarity on some issues . For example, on the question of predestination .

How do we reconcile the fact that the future is known, the fact that a person has free will ? How far the future is given ( predetermined), and how realizable is freedom given to us , from which a person receives a reward or a punishment? On the one hand , there are verses in the Bible that could be interpreted in favor of some kind of predestination , but on the other hand, it constantly refers to the need to make efforts to reach the kingdom of heaven , and to the human responsibility for our thoughts , deeds and actions , that wouldn't have sense if a man's fate was sealed .

This strange discrepancy can be solved , it seems to us , as follows. God set certain laws: from the obvious ( day and night, seasons), not to the obvious , as the periods of growth and periods of recession (it discussed in detail in the seventh chapter ). There are stages : birth, growth, blossoming , aging and dying - which are peculiar for as living beings , and entire nations , countries , epochs and for the world as a whole. And no matter how we want the opposite , this is inevitable and predestined . However, in regard to the thoughts and actions of human affairs - that's where we have freedom , but at the same time we became responsible for how we will dispose this freedom . That's why the destiny of man can't be predetermined, but it may be known to God from the beginning of creation.

And, of course , He knows all the events that occur in the future. And this knowledge of God reveals to men through His prophets . But this knowing is given in such a way that it can be understood , but it is not always obvious . That's why freedom is provided to man . This knowledge can be questioned , it is possible to believe it or not , this knowledge can be or not be accept . This knowledge is not imposed with the authority of the All-Knowing and Omniscient God. And this shows the benevolence of the Creator.

We believe that the Scriptures contains not only the knowledge about the end of human history , but also about the time when it should happen . That prohibitions imposed by God on the study of this question are not absolute. At the beginning of the spread of the Gospel on the ground , this information wasn't open to the Apostles . And it's rightly , cause bad interpretations may lead to the creation of sects . For example, this happened with the followers who call themselves Adventists . The sect came after a failed prediction of doomsday date by William Miller who developed active preaching and called not only the time but also the location of the second coming of Christ.

However , God tells people about the signs by which we need to recognize the approaching of the end of history . And he demands of us the ability to read and understand the " signs of the times." And he says that in proper time the knowledge will be revealed by ordinary people - through " all flesh":

"... and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions " (Joel 2: 28-31)

From this it follows that at a certain time God wants to reveal something previously hidden from even the Chosen ones.

Let's not be hypocritical , waving away the fact that it may be important , but with due care , commensurating with the teachings of the Holy Church and being guided by the knowledge stored in the Orthodox Church , we proceed to this thorny issue.

Since science can't virtually offer anything to question that interests us , we use religious knowledge , and try to give a new and original interpretation of a number of prophecies. And by connecting them with past historical events , we will make a number of assumptions that didn't sound earlier . This work presents only a theory. And as a theory , it should be checked . In this case, it is possible. Defining the correctness or falsity of the theory is the history itself , through coming or not coming true of predicted events. However, the timing of events that allows us to predict this theory is separated from our time far enough. Looking ahead , we'll say that the nearest dates are 2053 and 2054 years , when some significant events should happen . Let's just say that it's definitely not end of the world . Although let's do everything in right order .

Sources:

1. "The Bible of Holy Scripture " (3m ) // reprint Savvino Storozhevsky Monastery Design: "Rule of Faith" M ., 1999

2 ."The Bible of scripture of the Old and New Testament " canonical in Russian translation with parallel passages , 1991

3. "About the faith and morals of the teachings of the Orthodox Church " Moscow Patriarchate 1991 N.P. Ivanov, "The Days of Creation"

4. "About the faith and morals of the teachings of the Orthodox Church," Moscow Patriarchy 1991 Abbot Innokentiy "A bout the life of the future century "

5. P. Svetlova Orthodox Surveyor . 1889 . October . page 358 // reprint . 1889 "Apocalypse in interpretive and didactic reading " M . Barsov , group of Holy Trinity- Saint Seraphim Diveevsky Convent "Skit ", 1993  

 

Chapter II

The Day of Wrath: Signs

 

"I am permitted to tell you these signs"

(3 Ezra 5:13)

About the future, and specifically about the end of times in the Bible it said a lot: in the Old Testament, as a rule, in the prophets, and in the New Testament, mainly in the book of Revelation, the book, which is in Church Slavonic translation is called the Apocalypse. Among other things, the Church Slavonic translation of the Bible has a further 11 books of the Old Testament, which are not included in Russian translation and are referred as non-canonical. We will apply to all books of the Bible, recognizing their equivalence. Among the non-canonical books of the Old Testament particular value in this sense is kept by the third book of Ezra. With its saturation of prophecies relating to the end times, the third book of Ezra is rightly called the Old Testament Apocalypse.

So, what do we know about the future, with the words of the prophets? To produce a coherent picture, let's try to select some of the common features of all the prophecies. In some places it bluntly refers to the "last days" (Ier.30 24 Ier.48 47 Ier.49: 39 Dan 2: 28 Daniel 8: 19 Os.3 5 Mic.4: 13Ezdr .10 59 3Ezdr.12 23 3Ezdr.13 18 John 6: 39 Acts 2: 17 2Pet.3 3 2Tim.3: 1) or "last times" (Dan.10 14 Dan.11: 35 Dan.12 4 3Ezdr.14 22 3Ezdr.13 20 3Ezdr.12 9 1Tim.4: 1). Almost everywhere it's stating that there will be suffering, troubles, natural disasters of unprecedented power and destructiveness, the death of people and destruction of animals. Often refers to the "day of wrath" of God (at least 17 ​​times), the bottom of his fierce anger, day of mourning, desolation and ruin:

"Therefore I will shake the heavens, and the earth shall remove out of her place, in the wrath of the LORD of hosts, and in the day of his fierce anger.". (Isaiah 13:13)

"That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness " (Zeph. 1:15)

Many times anger is associated with fire, flame, burning all because nothing can stand the wrath of the Lord.

"The fire is gone forth from his wrath, and hath consumed the foundations of the earth, and the sinners, like the straw that is kindled.". (2 Ezra. 15:23)

"Who can stand before his indignation? and who can abide in the fierceness of his anger? his fury is poured out like fire, and the rocks are thrown down by him. ". (Nahum 1: 6)

You would think that in some cases we are dealing with associative images, allegories, and sometimes we are, when we are talking about people's anger against sinners or people. However, in the case where it is told about the "last times", " last day", "end of time" (Daniel 8: 17 3Ezdr.7: 43), the prophetic words are usually very specific and leave no room for doubt that it says about the complete and total destruction of all living things.

"I will utterly consume all things from off the land, saith the LORD. I will consume man and beast; I will consume the fowls of the heaven, and the fishes of the sea, and the stumblingblocks with the wicked; and I will cut off man from off the land, saith the LORD "( Zeph. 1: 2.3)

"... For the LORD hath a controversy with the inhabitants of the land ... Therefore shall the land mourn, and every one that dwelleth therein shall languish, with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven; yea, the fishes of the sea also shall be taken away ". (Hosea 4: 1-3)

More than once said that anger spread on "all the nations", from which again we conclude about a global devastation of the earth. At that Isaiah says that all the nations will perish in the fire, and the prophet Zephaniah says that a sudden extermination, will be committed by "fire of fury" of the Lord.

"He shall judge among the heathen, he shall fill the places with the dead bodies; he shall wound the heads over many countries. ". (Ps.110: 6)

"And the people shall be as the burnings of lime: as thorns cut up shall they be burned in the fire.". (Is 33:12)

"For the indignation of the LORD is upon all nations" (Is 34: 2)

"And I will bring distress upon men, that they shall walk like blind men, because they have sinned against the LORD: and their blood shall be poured out as dust, and their flesh as the dung. Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of the LORD'S wrath; but the whole land shall be devoured by the fire of his jealousy: for he shall make even a speedy riddance of all them that dwell in the land "( Zeph. 1: 17-18)

Thus, we see that to a certain time, so to speak to an hour "X", the earth will be completely empty. And this will be preceded by the death of all life on earth "in the fire of Jehovah's anger." This is the first and perhaps the main characteristic of the day of wrath, we can deduce from the words of various prophets.

Phenomena, prior to the Day of Wrath.

Many times the Lord talk to us through His prophets about the day of wrath which will be preceded by "signs", which can be divided into natural and socio-political. So, natural signs are heavenly signs: changes associated with stars, the moon and the sun - and a variety of disasters: earthquakes, ocean activity, diseased and maybe the clash with some small celestial body - a comet or asteroid. And in the socio-political signs prior to the day of the Lord are: the war, the cooling of faith, moral and physical degradation, certain political events. About all that we were informed in advance, although it is also repeatedly reported that day and hour will be abrupt. Day of wrath will come "when you do not wait," but signs indicating the approach of the end of time is quite specific. And by them people need to get know what is coming this time (Matt. 24:32). Consider these features in more detail.

Natural signs.

a) Celestial (Sun, Moon, stars).

"And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the LORD come" (Joel 2: 30-31)

"For the stars of heaven and the constellations thereof shall not give their light: the sun shall be darkened in his going forth, and the moon shall not cause her light to shine". (Is 13:10)

"Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed " (Is 24:23)

"And all the host of heaven shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll: and all their host shall fall down, as the leaf falleth off from the vine, and as a falling fig from the fig tree" ( Is 34: 4)

"Give glory to the LORD your God, before he cause darkness, and before your feet stumble upon the dark mountains, and, while ye look for light, he turn it into the shadow of death, and make it gross darkness". (Jeremiah 13:16)

"And when I shall put thee out, I will cover the heaven, and make the stars thereof dark; I will cover the sun with a cloud, and the moon shall not give her light. All the bright lights of heaven will I make dark over thee, and set darkness upon thy land, saith the Lord GOD"( Ezekiel 32: 7-8)

"The sun and the moon shall be darkened, and the stars shall withdraw their shining". (Joel 3:15)

"And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the Lord GOD, that I will cause the sun to go down at noon, and I will darken the earth in the clear day". (Amos 8: 9)

"And it shall come to pass in that day, that the light shall not be clear, nor dark" ... (Zech. 14: 6)

"Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken" (Matt.24: 29)

"But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken" (Mark 13:24, 25)

"The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come". (Acts. 2:20)

"And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood". (Rev. 6:12)

b) Earthquakes.

"Therefore I will shake the heavens, and the earth shall remove out of her place, in the wrath of the LORD of hosts, and in the day of his fierce anger". (Is13: 13)

"The earth is utterly broken down, the earth is clean dissolved, the earth is moved exceedingly. The earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard, and shall be removed like a cottage; and the transgression thereof shall be heavy upon it; and it shall fall, and not rise again". (Is 24: 19-20)

"For in my jealousy and in the fire of my wrath have I spoken, Surely in that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel; So that the fishes of the sea, and the fowls of the heaven, and the beasts of the field, and all creeping things that creep upon the earth, and all the men that are upon the face of the earth, shall shake at my presence , and the mountains shall be thrown down, and the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the ground". (Ezekiel 38: 19-20)

"The earth shall quake before them; the heavens shall tremble: the sun and the moon shall be dark, and the stars shall withdraw their shining"( Joel 2:10)

"And the heavens and the earth shall shake ". (Joel 3:16)

"And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the LORD, that there shall be the noise of a cry from the fish gate, and an howling from the second, and a great crashing from the hills". (Zeph. 1:10)

"For thus saith the LORD of hosts; Yet once, it is a little while, and I will shake the heavens, and the earth, and the sea, and the dry land "( Haggai 2: 6)

"Speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah, saying, I will shake the heavens and the earth" (Haggai 2:21)

"And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake ..." (Rev. 6:12)

"And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand: and the remnant were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of heaven". (Rev. 11:13)

c) "Voice of the Sea."

"The earth quaketh, and the foundations thereof; the sea ariseth up with waves from the deep, and the waves of it are troubled, and the fishes thereof also, before the Lord, and before the glory of his power " (3 Ezr. 16:12)

"And the Sodomitish sea shall cast out fish, and make a noise in the night, which many have not known: but they shall all hear the voice thereof" (3Ezr. 5: 7)

"The mountains saw thee, and they trembled: the overflowing of the water passed by: the deep uttered his voice, and lifted up his hands on high". (Hab 3:10)

"And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken " (Luke21: 25,26)

"Voice of the Sea" deserves a special mention. Why is there no mention of a storm or giant waves, but namely the sound. Waves, storms and tsunamis can be very damaging. This can be seen in our time. However, based on some of the quotes, we can conclude that we are talking about a more formidable omen.

Modern research on the nature of the ocean opened a thing that wasn't well-known before, but that is an extremely terrible phenomenon that researchers call the "voice of the ocean." This low-frequency sound is not perceived by the human ear and causes panic and terror. It is the action of the "voice of the ocean" today explain the cases occurring in the sea, for example, how ghost ships mysteriously lost their crews. How and where the "voice of the ocean" appears, how long it has - it's not known. Presumably, this phenomenon is quite rare, otherwise people would simply afraid of the sea.

Effects of infrasound on people became known just recently. So, in 1929, the effect of infrasound on the human psyche was used in London's "Lyric" theater in the performance of the historical drama. The authors would like to enhance the effect of one grim scene, prompting strong emotions to the viewer (psychological stress, fear). For advice, they turned to the physicist Robert Wood. And he suggested the use of acoustic effect. To the organ that plays behind the stage, they attached extension tubes of giant size, which had to call strong emotions in the viewer at the right time, producing low frequency sound which is not audible by human ear. When, during the premiere, the machine made the infrasound, in the theater glass trembled, chandeliers rattled, walls began to resonate and shake ... The audience was terrified and started to panic. The play was disrupted.

Apparently, something like that, but on a larger scale, the prophets predict as a sign of the approaching "last times." Perhaps this will be one of the causes of the "great sorrow" which "wasn't from the beginning of the world", because it may happen that people will run in panic from the shore and go crazy with fear, seeking refuge in the mountains, that is, away from the ocean.

g) Probability of a collision with a small cosmic body (comet, asteroid) or nuclear war.

We're talking about the probability of collision, because it's not quite understandable what does it mean. Descriptions of the events in the text of Scripture in comparison with other signs are much smaller. Moreover, we can say that only the Book of Revelation has two images that can be interpreted as a cosmic catastrophe.

"And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea ..." (Rev. 8: 8)

"And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp ..." (Rev. 8:10)

Some "terrible star" is also mentioned in the third book of Ezra. But when considering the text of the story, there is a feeling that the image of "star" means something else. Perhaps weapons of destruction used by people, but not the outer body.

"They that till the ground shall mourn: for their seeds shall fail through the blasting and hail, and with a fearful constellation". (3 Ezr. 15:13)

"Behold clouds from the east and from the north unto the south, and they are very horrible to look upon, full of wrath and storm. They shall smite one upon another, and they shall smite down a great multitude of stars upon the earth, even their own star; and blood shall be from the sword unto the belly " (3 Ezra. 15: 34,35)

"And strong winds shall arise from the east, and shall open it; and the cloud which he raised up in wrath, and the star stirred to cause fear toward the east and west wind, shall be destroyed.

The great and mighty clouds shall be puffed up full of wrath, and the star, that they may make all the earth afraid, and them that dwell therein; and they shall pour out over every high and eminent place an horrible star,

Fire, and hail, and flying swords, and many waters, that all fields may be full, and all rivers, with the abundance of great waters.

And they shall break down the cities and walls, mountains and hills, trees of the wood, and grass of the meadows, and their corn. And they shall go stedfastly unto Babylon, and make her afraid. They shall come to her, and besiege her, the star and all wrath shall they pour out upon her: then shall the dust and smoke go up unto the heaven, and all they that be about her shall bewail her. And they that remain under her shall do service unto them that have put her in fear. "(3 Ezr. 15: 39-45).

It is necessary to point out separately the following quotes of mysterious contents, which are also referred to the signs of the end of time.

"Moreover the light of the moon shall be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun shall be sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day that the LORD bindeth up the breach of his people, and healeth the stroke of their wound ". (Is 30:26)

"But if the most High grant thee to live, thou shalt see after the third trumpet that the sun shall suddenly shine again in the night, and the moon thrice in the day: And blood shall drop out of wood, and the stone shall give his voice, and the people shall be troubled ". (3 Ezra. 5: 4.5)

"There shall be a confusion also in many places, and the fire shall be oft sent out again, and the wild beasts shall change their places, and menstruous women shall bring forth monsters: And salt waters shall be found in the sweet, and all friends shall destroy one another; then shall wit hide itself, and understanding withdraw itself into his secret chamber ". (3 Ezr. 5: 8.9)

These lines are very similar to a nuclear war and its consequences, which is difficult to say about in other words. Writers used the known images of "Flying Swords", " fire sent from heaven" - rockets; " The sun will shine in the night, and the moon three times a day" - like a flash of nuclear explosions; "Encircle the city of Babylon, and poured it out with a star" - it is clearly the use of certain weapon against the people of the city and its inhabitants; " water will become salty ​​...", "women will give birth to monsters" - the consequences of radiation.

In this connection, falling star described in the Apocalypse, burning like a torch, it may be a drop of the heavenly bodies or the use of the product of military-industrial complex. However, as is the case with the third trumpet of Angel of the Apocalypse, and the events that occur during the third trumpet are said about in the third book of Ezra, here we with high probability can attribute all these things to the nuclear war and its consequences.

d) Hailing.

"Judgment also will I lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet: and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place". (Isaiah 28:17)

"And the LORD shall cause his glorious voice to be heard, and shall show the lighting down of his arm, with the indignation of his anger, and with the flame of a devouring fire, with scattering, and tempest, and hailstones". (Isaiah 30:30)

"Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even rend it with a stormy wind in my fury; and there shall be an overflowing shower in mine anger, and great hailstones in my fury to consume it". (Ezekiel 13:13)

"And I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood; and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that are with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone " (Ezekiel 38:22)

"Suffer apt arrows and lightning from the clouds, as from a tightly strung bow, will fly to the target. And, as of kamenometnogo guns, with the fury of hail will fall; against them, sea water and rivers overflow their fiercely "(Wisdom of Solomon 5: 21,22)

"Fire, and hail, and famine, and death - all these were created for vengeance" (Sirach 39:36)

"They that till the ground shall mourn: for their seeds shall fail through the blasting and hail, and with a fearful constellation ". (3 Ezra. 15:13)

"Fire, and hail, and flying swords, and many waters, that all fields may be full, and all rivers, with the abundance of great waters" (3 Ezra. 15:41)

"The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up". (Revelation. 8: 7)

"And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for the plague thereof was exceeding great ". (Revelation. 16:21)

As we can see, Russian translation of the word "hail" doesn't always coincide with the Church Slavonic translation. Sometimes the word "hail" clearly indicate a weapon of war ("hailing weapon"). Sometimes this is a way of hiding an allegory, as in the text of the Third Book of Ezra, where "fire, and hail, and flying swords" (Ezra 3. 15:41), and sounds more like a description of horrors of modern warfare that thousands of years ago it was impossible to express in different way. Nevertheless, hailing is indicated among other signs of the approaching end of times.

e) Animals.

"Wherefore a lion out of the forest shall slay them, and a wolf of the evenings shall spoil them, a leopard shall watch over their cities: every one that goeth out thence shall be torn in pieces: because their transgressions are many, and their backslidings are increased " (Jeremiah 5: 6)

"For, behold, I will send serpents, cockatrices, among you, which will not be charmed, and they shall bite you, saith the LORD". (Jeremiah 8:17)

"So will I send upon you famine and evil beasts, and they shall bereave thee; and pestilence and blood shall pass through thee; and I will bring the sword upon thee. I the LORD have spoken it " (Ezekiel 5:17)

"And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth ". (Revelation. 6: 8)

g) Disease.

"Say thou thus unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; As I live, surely they that are in the wastes shall fall by the sword, and him that is in the open field will I give to the beasts to be devoured, and they that be in the forts and in the caves shall die of the pestilence ". (Ezekiel 33:27)

"And I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood; and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that are with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone " (Ezekiel 38:22), and others.

"The beginning of sorrows and great mournings; the beginning of famine and great death; the beginning of wars, and the powers shall stand in fear; the beginning of evils! what shall I do when these evils shall come? " (3 Ezra. 16:18)

"Behold, famine and plague, tribulation and anguish, are sent as scourges for amendment" (3 Ezra. 16:20)

"Even so shall not the plagues be slack to come upon the earth, and the world shall mourn, and sorrows shall come upon it on every side" (3 Ezra. 16:40)

"For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows". (Mark 13: 8) (Matthew 24: 8)

h) Hunger.

"Fire, and hail, and famine, and death, all these were created for vengeance" (Sirach 39:36)

"And they shall pass through it, hardly bestead and hungry: and it shall come to pass, that when they shall be hungry, they shall fret themselves, and curse their king and their God, and look upward. And they shall look unto the earth; and behold trouble and darkness, dimness of anguish; and they shall be driven to darkness ". (Isaiah 8: 21,22)

"So will I send upon you famine and evil beasts, and they shall bereave thee; and pestilence and blood shall pass through thee; and I will bring the sword upon thee. I the LORD have spoken it " (Ezekiel 5:17)

"They have blown the trumpet, even to make all ready; but none goeth to the battle: for my wrath is upon all the multitude thereof. The sword is without, and the pestilence and the famine within: he that is in the field shall die with the sword; and he that is in the city, famine and pestilence shall devour him. " (Ezekiel 7: 14-15)

"Behold, saith the Lord, I will bring plagues upon the world; the sword, famine, death, and destruction " (3 Ezra. 15: 5)

"They that be in the mountains shall die of hunger, and eat their own flesh, and drink their own blood, for very hunger of bread, and thirst of water". (3 Ezra. 15:58), and others.

"Behold, famine and plague, tribulation and anguish, are sent as scourges for amendment" (3 Ezra. 16:20), and others.

"And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him.And power WAS Given unto Them over the Fourth Part of the earth, to Kill with sword, and with hunger, and with Death, and with the Beasts of the earth ". (Revelation. 6: 8)

" Therefore her plagues Shall Come in one Day, Death, and mourning, and famine; and she Shall be Utterly Burned with Fire: for strong is the Lord God WHO judgeth her ​​" (Revelation. 18: 8)

The following feature should be noted: in the prophecies it's often referred to the hunger and at the same time to the presence of wild animals. That is, we see that the people of the future time will become unable to fend for themselves. After the animals were the food for our ancestors since ancient times, so where there were animals, there was no hunger. On the other hand, our generation is not able to feed themselves from the wild, because our skills are limited with the ability to buy food in the stores. And closing stores or failure of providing urban food inevitably lead to hunger, even if there is a lot of animals around.

Our dependence on civilization, careless hope that this situation will always be, in the end, would be a death trap. If suddenly customary communication will be violated, prices will rise, or supply of food in the shops will stop, there would be hunger. And this is despite the fact that in many cities wild animals will live around. It is sad that not we, but they will hunt us.

Socio-political signs

a) Wars.

To list all the places in the Bible, which states that there will be wars is difficult - so great is their number. Yes, and in a variety of earlier quotes it says that people will be " slain with the sword . " That's why here we present only a small fraction of references:

" Ye Shall not be unpunished: for I will call for A sword upon all the Inhabitants of the earth, saith the LORD of hosts " (Jeremiah 25:29)

" That Day is A Day of Wrath, A Day of Distress and trouble, A Day of wasteness and Desolation, A Day of Darkness and gloominess, A Day of clouds and Thick Darkness, A Day of the Trumpet Against the alarm and FENCED cities, and Against the High towers ". (Zephaniah 1: 15-16)

" And I will overthrow the Throne of kingdoms, and I will destroy the strength of the kingdoms of the Heathen; and I will overthrow the chariots, and those that ride in them; and the horses and riders Their Shall Come down, every one by the sword of His brother " . (Haggai 2:22)

" And it Shall Come to Pass, That in all the land, saith the LORD, Two parts Therein Shall be cut off and Die; but the third shall be left therein. And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people : and They Shall Say, The LORD is my God. " (Zechariah 13: 8-9)

" And one Shall undertake to fight Against another, one city Against another, one place Against another, one people Against another, and another one Realm Against ". (3 Ezra. 13:31)

" But Ye Shall When Hear of Wars and Commotions, be not Terrified: for These things must first Come to Pass; But the end is not by and by " (Luki.21 9) the same (Matthew 24: 6 and Mar.13: 7)

" For Nation Shall rise Against Nation, and Kingdom Against Kingdom: and there Shall be Earthquakes in Divers places, and there Shall be famines and troubles: These are the Beginnings of sorrows ". (Mark 13: 8) and (Matthew 24: Luk.21 7 and 10).

What should be noted about wars are the prophecies of Daniel (chapters on 10th 12yu), which not only says that there will be a war, but also describes a certain course of military events. It's not the past, but namely the future, and the future which even we (the people of the XXI century) have not seen yet. It can be proved with words of Angel:

"... I am come to make thee Understand what Shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the vision is for many days ". (Daniel 10:14)

b) Certain political events.

Approximation of the last time in Scripture is characterized by many signs: natural disasters, wars, disease, etc. But amid all this things human social life continues. There are states between which there are certain relations. They will not go away in the last centuries. Some states will be called Kingdoms. At the head of them will be government or rulers, whom the prophets who lived thousands of years ago, called Kings.

Political developments of recent times are allegorically described in several places: Daniel (chapters 7 and 8, 10-12), in the third book of Ezra (chapters 11 and 12) and in the book of Revelation (chapters 6 th in almost 20 w). As a rule, all the descriptions are full of secret images, more than other places that tell about the events of the present or not very distant future.

It should be noted that the political and spiritual issues for the last time became more and more intertwined. So last kingdom from a political point of view looks like the union of all (or more basic) lands in one, and from the mystical - an approach of short kingdom of the Antichrist.

It is interesting that some of the descriptions from the above chapters were similar to events that have already occurred. For example, the story of the struggle between Greece and Persia in the book of Daniel's prophecy - from the tenth to twelfth chapter - by many commentators it refers to an accomplished events as coincidences are extremely striking (see. "Explanatory Bible" Lopuhin AP). But the Angel said that these events are related wih" the last days ":

"... Behold, I will make thee know what Shall be in the end of the Last indignation: for at the time Appointed the end Shall be ". (Daniel 8:19).

And even more mysterious are words that the last horn (king) " rise up against the Prince of princes , "" to destroy the strong and holy people , "and eventually"will be broken - without a hand "(Daniel 8: 24, 25). All these images are extremely reminding the story of the Antichrist and the time of his short reign. Although many consider this placesto the reign of the Syrian King Antiochus Epiphanes (175 -164 years. BC), committed atrocities in Palestine.

A number of commentators to the days of the Antichrist carries a part of the prophecy of Daniel, for example, " the abomination of desolation "and the desecration of the Temple in Jerusalem. After all, if the prophecy of Daniel describes only the past, in this case, Jesus Christ, speaking of the " abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet , "could not talk about it as an event that occur in the future, since his time era of Antiochus Epiphanes had long passed.

" When Ye Shall therefore see the Abomination of Desolation, Spoken of by Daniel the Prophet, Stand in the holy place, (Whoso readeth, let HIM Understand :) Then let Them Which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: Let HIM Which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes. And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! But pray Ye That your flight be not in the Winter, Neither on the Sabbath Day: For then Shall be great Tribulation, such as WAS not since the Beginning of the World to this time, No, nor ever Shall be " (Matthew. 24 : 15-21)

St Jerome relates Daniel's prophecy about the time of placing " abomination of desolation " in the holy place exclusively to the Antichrist, and only some of the prophecies - to Antiochus.

Often in the Bible by the same images various time were described, when events of the Old Testament act as a prototype of the events of the New Testament. It may be that in this case we are dealing with a similar phenomenon. And this, in turn, has led many commentators to erroneous conclusions.

Here we are not going to paint all the images of the above books of the prophets - anyone can refer to the original source. Let's just say that at one time, we consider the four kingdoms described by Daniel, two of which have already passed, and the two didn't yet. Consider some of the images of the Revelation. Images from the 11th and 12th chapters of the third book of Ezra are not clear, and probably the time of their disclosure didn't come yet.

Generally, the Bible will keep to the last time certain secrets that will become apparent as far as they are executed.

c) Cooling of the faith,

the increase of lawlessness, moral degradation.

" behold, the days Shall Come , But Iniquity Shall be Increased above That Which now thou seest, thou hast or That Heard Long ago. . " . (3 Ezra. 5: 1.2)

" For many great Miseries Shall be Done to Them That in the latter time Shall Dwell in the World, Because They have great pride in Walked ". (3 Ezra. 8:50)

" And therefore ask thou No more Questions Concerning the multitude of Them That Perish. For When They HAD taken liberty, They DESPISED the Most High, Thought Scorn of His law, and forsook His ways. Moreover's They have trodden down His Righteous, And said in Their heart, That there is No God; yea, and Knowing That They must Die ". (3 Ezra. 8: 55-58)

" But be Created Which They have Defiled the name of HIM That Made Them, and Were unthankful unto HIM Which Prepared Them for Life. And therefore is my Judgment now at Hand " (Ezra 3. 8: 59-61)

" And I will Bring Distress upon men, That They Shall walk like blind men, Because They have sinned Against the LORD: and Their blood Shall be Poured out as dust, and Their Flesh as the Dung ". (Zephaniah 1:17)

" And Because Iniquity Shall abound, the love of many wax cold Shall "( Matthew 24: 12)

" When the Son of MAN cometh, he Shall Find faith on the earth ? " (Luke 18: 8)

It may seem that the cooling of faith, increasing of lawlessness somehow hastily identified with the moral degradation of human society as a whole. On the basis of such a small number of quotes this generalization may seem a little controversial. However, people familiar with the texts of Scripture more thoroughly, it's not necessary to prove it. Indeed, how you will call the multiplication of " works of the flesh "(Gal. 5: 19-21), and forgetfulness of " works of the spirit "(Gal. 5 22-26)? What is this if not a moral degradation?

a) the works of the flesh: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, [temptations] heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries (Galatians 5: 19-21 ), add here: theft, extortion, predation, sodomy (1Cor.6: 9, 10), as well as: bestiality, excesses in food and drink (1Pet.4 3), slander, perjury, lying, insulting father and mother (1Tim.1: 9.10). To abominations the LORD considers also fortune telling, evoking the dead, sorcery (2Par.33 6), astrology (worshiping the star circle (Wisdom of Solomon 13: 2) observers of the heavens and the astrologers, and prognosticators on the new moon (Is.47: 13)

b) The case of the spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. (Galatians 5 22-26). And, of course, keeping the commandments, main among them: " And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first Commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none Other Commandment Greater than These "(Mar.12: 30.31)

" This know Also, That in the days Last Perilous Times Shall Come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God " (2 Tim. 3: 1-4)

Do we live in the Spirit or in the flesh? And are we very different from people of the last time, in the wayt the Apostle describes them?

d) Association of State

and the election of a single ruler.

This event of coming history belongs to the last years of the existence of the world. And, as a rule, it's expressed in harsh images. The last king is called as " despicable "(Dan.11 21)" man of sin "," son of perdition "(2Fess.2 3)," wicked "(2Fess.2 8). In Revelation the latter " despicable "the king is represented in the image of the beast," two horns like a lamb "(Rev. 13: 11), St. John the Evangelist calls him a" false prophet "(Revelation 20: 10). The fact that these images are described by the Antichrist, will be discussed in detail in Chapter 5.

Directly the fact that this " son of perdition "will head the united kingdom of whole earth, that is, for a short time became a political ruler of the planet, is said by Daniel in the 7th chapter. For the fourth beast of his prophetic images is the kingdom of the Antichrist, which will " trample on the whole earth . "

" THUS he said, The Fourth Beast Shall be the Fourth Kingdom upon earth, Which Shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and devour the whole Shall earth, and Shall Tread it down, and Break it in pieces ". (Daniel 7:23).

Also in the third book of Ezra image of an eagle means apparently the same last the fourth kingdom which was shown to Daniel - the kingdom of the Antichrist.

" Art thou not it That remainest of the four Beasts, Whom I Made to Reign in my World, That the end of Their Times might Come through Them? And the fourth came, and overcame all the beasts that were past, and had power over the world with great fearfulness, and over the whole compass of the earth with much wicked oppression; and so Long time he dwelt upon the earth with deceit " (Ezra 3. 11: 39.40)

Repeatedly stated that his power spread " all over the earth "(Ezra 3. 11: 2 11:12 11:32 12:23). Also in the book of Revelation it says that the beast power will spread to the whole earth (Rev. 13: 12). And also it's quite certain that it will power over all tribes and peoples for a little while.

".. and power WAS HIM Given over all kindreds, and Tongues, and Nations ". (Revelation. 13: 7)

Today it is not difficult to imagine this, cause" the Mystery of Iniquity doth already work "(2Fess.2 7). All so-called "integration processes" aimed at creating a single economic space, the creation of a single currency, e-money, calls for the establishment of a single religion, all these things are the "progress", leading to the end, and to the reign of " son of perdition "on the throne of the united kingdom.

Characteristics of the last ruler

and his short reign

a) overthrow or subordinate three rulers.

" After this I saw in the night visions, and behold A Fourth Beast, Dreadful and Terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns. I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things " . (Daniel 7: 7-8)

This image further is explained:

" THUS he said, The Fourth Beast Shall be the Fourth Kingdom upon earth, Which Shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and devour the whole Shall earth, and Shall Tread it down, and Break it in pieces. And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise: and another shall rise after them; and he Shall be diverse from the first, and he Shall Subdue Three kings " (Dan. 7: 23-24)

More information about these three kings mentioned in the third book of Ezra:

" In His days Last Shall the Most High Raise up Three kingdoms, and renew many things Therein, and They Shall have the dominion of the earth, And of Those That Dwell Therein, with much oppression, above all Those That Were Before Them: therefore They are Called the heads of the eagle. For These are They That Shall ACCOMPLISH His wickedness, and That Shall finish His Last end. And whereas thou sawest that the great head appeared no more, it signifieth that one of them shall die upon his bed, and yet with pain. For the two that remain shall be slain with the sword. For the sword of the one Shall devour the Other: But at the Last Shall he Fall through the sword Himself " (3 Ezra 12: 23-28)

Is not very clear whether there is meant in both cases the same or different heads of states. And if they're the same, then why Daniel says that the Antichrist despise [humble] three former kings, and in Ezra we see the image of the three kings, one of whom died in agony on his deathbed, another killed by one of the three, but he will be subsequently killed too. Perhaps all three rulers will fall as a result of the intrigues of cunning Antichrist.

b) The period of the reign - 3.5 years.

About how much he was destined to hold on to power, it said unequivocally -3.5 years, or 42 months, or 1,290 days. Several times this period is determined by the allegorical " until a time and times and the dividing of time . "

" And he Shall speak great words Against the Most High, and Shall Wear out the Saints of the Most High, and think to Change Times and laws: and They Shall be Given into His Hand until time A and Times and the Dividing of time " . (Daniel 7:25)

" And from the time That the Daily sacrifice Shall be taken away, and the Abomination That maketh Desolate set up, there Shall be A Thousand Two Hundred and Ninety days ". (Daniel 12:11)

" And there WAS Given unto HIM A mouth speaking great things and Blasphemies; and power unto HIM WAS Given to continue forty and Two months ". (Revelation. 13: 5)

Also Revelation 12: 14, and possibly Daniel 12: 7 and Revelation 11: 2

c) The war with the saints and the victory over the Christianity.

The Bible says that the last ruler of the whole earth, acting with the power of Satan, sit in specially rebuilding Temple of Solomon, to be rendered with divine honors. At the same time it's given to him to " make war with the saints and to conquer them . " That is, this short period before the end will be characterized by the abolition of the true religion by atheist who set out to replace the truth with lies, that he could do for a little while. Including due to the fact that people love will grow cold, and faith in Christ will come to naught. (Luke 18: 8).

". .. That MAN of sin be Revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; That so he as God sitteth in the temple of God, Himself Showing That he is God ". (2 Thess. 2: 3.4)

"... Whose coming is After the working of Satan ... "( 2 Thess. 2: 9)

" And it waxed great, even to the Host of heaven; and it cast down some of the host and of the stars to the ground, and stamped upon them. Yea, he magnified Himself even to the prince of the Host, and by the Daily sacrifice HIM WAS taken away, and the place of His sanctuary WAS cast down ". (Daniel 8: 10-11)

" And the King Shall ACCORDING to do His will; and he Shall exalt Himself, and magnify Himself above every god, and Shall speak Marvellous things Against the God of gods, and Shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for That is Determined That Shall be Done " (Daniel 11:36)

"... That Shall it be for A time, Times, and an half; When he and Shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all These things Shall be finished "( Daniel 12: 7)

"... And he Shall speak great words Against the Most High, and Shall Wear out the Saints of the Most High, and think to Change Times and laws: and They Shall be Given into His Hand until time A and Times and the Dividing of time " . (Daniel 7: 24-25)

" And it WAS Given unto HIM to make War with the Saints, and to Overcome Them: and power WAS HIM Given over all kindreds, and Tongues, and Nations ". . (Rev. 13: 7), and others.

Substitution of true religion cult of self, cancel victim - that is service to God, is called the " abomination of desolation ", and called one of the most important signs of the coming end.

g) The Abomination of Desolation.

" Yea, he magnified Himself even to the prince of the Host, and by the Daily sacrifice HIM WAS taken away, and the place of His sanctuary WAS cast down. And an host was given him against the daily sacrifice by reason of transgression, and it cast down the truth to the ground; and it practiced, and prospered ". (Daniel 8: 11-12)

" And he Shall confirm the Covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he Shall Cause the sacrifice and the oblation to Cease, and for the overspreading of Abominations he Shall make it Desolate, even until the consummation, and That Determined Shall be Poured upon the Desolate ". (Daniel 9:27)

" And arms Shall Stand on His Part, and They Shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and Shall Take away the Daily sacrifice, and They Shall place the Abomination That maketh Desolate "( Daniel 11: 30,31)

"And from the time That the Daily sacrifice Shall be taken away, and the Abomination That maketh Desolate set up, there Shall be A Thousand Two Hundred and Ninety days ". (Daniel 12:11)

" But Ye Shall When see the Abomination of Desolation, Spoken of by Daniel the Prophet, Standing WHERE it ought not, (let HIM That readeth Understand,) then let Them That be in Judaea flee to the mountains " . (Matthew 24: 15-18), and (Mar.13: 14)

The fact that the " abomination of desolation " is a substitution of the true faith of false believers, replacing worship of the impostor that can be understood by reading the narrative of the first book of Maccabees, which describes the atrocities of Antiochus Epiphanes, and the" abomination of desolation "referred to the erection of altars to pagan gods. (1st Maccabees 1:54)

New economic system

and universal identification

One of the main actions of the Antichrist will be, as it says in Revelation, the introduction of universal identification for people. To do this, all will impose on their right hand or on his forehead a certain identification mark (code, chip, or else - " print "), which will be a confirmation of loyalty of Antichrist government and certain means of payment. Perhaps it will be serve as both an identification documents and means of payment. It is very well stated in the 13th chapter of the Apocalypse:

" And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, Free and Bond, to receive A mark in Their right Hand, or in Their foreheads: And That No MAN might buy or sell, save he HAD That the mark, or the name of the Beast, or the number of His name ". (Revelation. 13: 16,17)

That is, without this tag the person will be deprived of any opportunity to purchase food for themselves and their families. Probably, it should be understood that the power of the Antichrist will control all cash payments.

The development of technology makes it possible to introduce a total control over the circulation of money. And the easiest way to make it is the transition from paper and metal currency to virtual electronic calculations. And it can be assumed that the money itself in their physical tangible form (paper, metal) on the hands of the population will not exist, and all calculations will be carried out electronically, or in some similar way. For us, the residents of the XXI century, it is not difficult to imagine, since we are already familiar with these types of calculations. Wages goes to the card account, and payment for the goods can be made debiting the card. Man doesn't see the money, and earn, in fact, the ability to purchase goods and pay for services. At the same time this very possibility of its controls one who created this system, or who has had an opportunity to control it.

We see that the new economic system has already been introduced, and when the Antichrist will be brought to a state of total control over all economic calculations of people who have agreed to accept this system.

Creating such a system of total control over all people will lead to the fact that the refusal to accept the new government would be tantamount to expulsion from the society. And then all the benefits of a dying civilization will be available to those who will be more aware of the true God and His prohibition of taking " the mark "or" print "of the Antichrist on his forehead or hand.

And to help the people of the end times learn this " mark of the beast "- or identifying" mark ", the Lord through John the Evangelist gives a specific reference to a sign by which to recognize it - the presence of three sixes:

" Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and His number is Six Hundred threescore and six " (Revelation. 13:18).

It is also said very clearly that the adoption of this "mark" tantamount to renunciation is followed by the inevitable and cruel punishment. (Revelation. 14: 9-11)

" The mystery of iniquity doth already work , "- said the apostle more than 2000 years ago. Today, we have to state that there will come a " short time "(Revelation 20: 3-7), which will end the accession of the Antichrist. New economic system is the reality of our days. In the bar code, which is introduced by secret code to the general labeling (called EAN) at the end of the twentieth century, entered into three " security strips ", which are very similar to the sixes, although experts say that the decoding algorithm reads them as" 383 " [3]. Of course, it's not the print of the Antichrist yet, but, at least, it becomes clear how this " mark "might look like, or how it can act.

The implementation of all encryption products has started. The next step will be the introduction of a card with a personal information, and there're made attempts to introduce them in the individual countries. The last step is the application of the Anti-Christ "mark" on the forehead or the hand, as Scripture warns. And it can't be taken in any case.

Will be killed (not by hand)

The last times will be very difficult for true Christians. The kingdom of the Antichrist in Daniel's prophecies is written in the form of the fourth " very terrible "beast (Daniel 7: 7, 23). As well as the elements of the image of an eagle in the 11th and 12th chapters of the third book of Ezra. This time will be heavy not only because the extraordinary efforts of persecution, but also, perhaps, because people at this time finally grow cold, forgot the true faith, became morally degraded, and would be willing to accept anyone who promises to restore security and prosperity, destroyed by this time the total wars and disasters.

Faithful Christians in this dark period will be in the minority. Moreover, as the Lord opens His favorites in our time, those who denied Christ will be to try to discover who didn't take their print and send them into the hands of Satan's power to torture and torment. Because the Scripture says we should flee from the cities to lonely places (Matthew 24: 15-18 Mar.13: 14), as to survive and to remain faithful to the truth in this situation, it's hardly anyone will be able to do it in the past three and a half year of the reign of the Antichrist. The image of the " wife ", hiding in the desert" from the face of the serpent ", is shown that the True Church - all faithful Christians, - and it can only be preserved hiding in deserted places.

" And to the woman Were Given Two wings of A great eagle, That she might fly into the Wilderness, into her place, WHERE she is nourished for A time, and Times, and A half time, from the face of the serpent ". (Revelation. 12:14)

In this passage to his chosen (eg, Elder Paisius of the Holy Mountain) God reveals that people escaped and put their trust in Him will not be retained and will be able to survive even where the logic of the unbeliever without money, shopping, and shelter to survive will be impossible. As another wise man said, " there was another man, who had the desire to escape and was walking this road, the road of salvation, and did not get as far as possible a quiet haven . "

And the end of the Antichrist and his entire entourage is the one, in the lake of fire. (Rev. 19: 20 Revelation 20: 10). And he will be killed, as it is written, " not by the hand "(Daniel 8: 25), but by the power of the Lord Jesus, who appeared to judge the world. (Revelation 14: 14-20, 19: 11-21). Antichrist will gather the troops at a place called in the Hebrew as Armageddon (Otkr.16: 16), to fight against the host of heaven, and they will fall by " the sword of the Word of God "(Rev. 19: 11-21).

"They shall look on Him whom they have pierced"

We also know that at this time there will be an epiphany of the Jewish people. By God's will its ignorance will cease, and they " weep about whom they pierced . "

"... upon the house of David, and upon the Inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of Grace and of supplications: and They Shall Look upon me Whom They have Pierced, and They Shall mourn for HIM, as one mourneth for His Only son , and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn. In that day shall there be a great mourning in Jerusalem, as the mourning of Hadadrimmon in the valley of Megiddon. And the land shall mourn, every family apart; the family of the house of David apart, and their wives apart; the family of the house of Nathan Apart, and Their Wives Apart ". (Zechariah 12: 10-14)

" Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen " ( Revelation. 1: 7)

This chapter didn't collect all quotes that said about the last days or the time prior to the offensive of " the day of Jehovah's anger . " Nevertheless, even this amount is sufficient to make some idea of what is nesessary to mankind to survive. War, disease, natural disasters, cooling faith, strengthening the godless powers, oppression of the true Church and the accession of the Antichrist for the short time. On the basis of this knowledge we can't yet draw any conclusions about the timing. And for further research, we need some additional prophecies. We need you to pay attention to two prophetic images in the Book of Revelation:

1) The prophetic image of millennial binding of Satan and the millennial reign of the saints with Christ

2) The prophetic image of removing the seals from a certain mysterious book.

Sources :

 

1. "The Bible of Holy Scripture " (3m ) // reprint Savvino Storozhevsky Monastery Design: "Rule of Faith" M ., 1999

2 ."The Bible of scripture of the Old and New Testament " canonical in Russian translation with parallel passages , 1991

3.     Kuraev A.V. "Christianity in the limit of history," Ch. "Examination of the barcode "

 

 

 

  

Chapter III

" The millennial reign of the saints with Christ

"

 

" Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first

resurrection: on such the second death hath no

power, but they shall be priests of God and of

Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years ".  

    (Rev. 20:6)

As we see in the Bible about the coming end of the world it is said a lot . And although there is no specified term, a lot of signs or symptoms are given which people need to know the last time approach . Even after the rather superficial ordering these characteristics , we can definitely say that all the signs listed above can't occur simultaneously because they are very different in nature . It is clear that the last 3.5 years of the reign of Antichrist are chronologically later period of general war . But hunger and disease , for example, are always accompanied by wars , because we can assume their chronological coexistence . In other words, the signs given to us as an indication of the approaching finals , you can at least try to build chronologically , to try to see where we live now at this time .

We believe it necessary to pay attention to the image of Revelation , which tells of the opening sequence of seals with a certain book. Removal of each of the seven seals is accompanied by certain events. And when removing the seventh seal out seven trumpeting angels . Consider the image in detail.

  Removal of the first print : "And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer ". (Revelation . 6: 2)

Removing the second print : "another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword". (Revelation . 6: 4)

Removal of the third print : "And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine ". ( Rev.6: 5.6 )

Removing the fourth print : "And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth ". ( Rev.6: 8)

Removal of the fifth print : "And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled. "( Otkr.6: 9-11)

Removal of the sixth print : "And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places "( Otkr.6: 12-14)

Removal of the seventh print : "And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets ". (Revelation . 8 : 1-2)

  Seven angels sounded :

1. The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up. ( Rev.8 : 7)

2. And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood; ( Rev.8 : 8)

3. And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters; ( Rev.8: 10)

4. And the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars; so as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise. (Rev.8 : 12)

5. And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit. (Revelation 9 : 1)

6. And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God, ( Revelation 9 : 13)

7. And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. ( Rev 11: 15).

We can assume that God showed John the Theologian in the form of images of the sequence of events that are directly tied to the end of the story. That is, this cycle is a kind of key to understanding the history of signs listed in the previous chapter.

Figuratively speaking, the seven seals are some seven large (possibly equivalent) periods, while the seven angelic pipes divide the seventh period to seven smaller (possibly equivalent) periods. And so, if we found out that this is true, then in the hands of modern humanity there would have been the similarity of map of future events - and they're quite sad. War, pestilence, wild beasts, famine, the prospect of choosing between starvation and seal of the Antichrist, Armageddon, Judgment Day - it seems so unreal today! In our time of relative prosperity and relative calm it's hard to believe in the reality of the predestined. But this, surprisingly, is also said in Scripture:

"For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape ".

(1 Thess. 5: 3).

  Or another quote:

  "Behold, victuals shall be so good cheap upon earth, that they shall think themselves to be in good case, and even then shall evils grow upon earth, sword, famine, and great confusion. For many of them that dwell upon earth shall perish of famine; and the other, that escape the hunger, shall the sword destroy ". (3 Ezra. 16: 22,23)

  It is appropriate to quote Seraphim Rose, "Indeed, now later than we think. Apocalypse takes place now. And how sad it is to see Christians and young people, the Orthodox youth, which hangs over the heads of an unthinkable tragedy, and who think that they can continue living in these terrible times, what is called "normal life", fully participating in whims of the insane self-seducted generation . Generation which is completely unaware that "fools paradise" in which we live, should collapse soon, is not prepared for those desperate times that await us. "[3]

In Revelation the opening of the first four seals is accompanied by the release of the four horsemen on horses of different colors. What can they mean? It is believed that the image of the horsemen of the Apocalypse in common with the way the horses and chariots of Zechariah (Zechariah. 1: 8-10, 6: 1-3). And as in the Old Testament, as, respectively, and in the book of Revelation, they symbolize various disasters should be on the ground as we approach the end.

However, among the commentators there's an opinion that the first rider symbolizes the Word of God or the spread of the Gospel throughout the world. Such an interpretation could be considered, not whether a white rider had three more satellites. And then they, in turn, without disagreement is defined as disasters: war, famine, and death, respectively. And such a company, you see, is more suited to white rider of the punishment of God.

Image given in the 19th chapter of Revelation, clearly shows how much more majestic is the image of the Word of God, seated on a white horse. Because more than likely, the riders from the sixth chapter of the Apocalypse, as well as events related to the opening of the seals, allegorically represent tragic events in human history. And the image of the first white rider also symbolizes some dramatic events. The only question is What events?

In general, it should be noted that especially in the early interpreters of the Apocalypse in explaining the images there is more symbolism than in the book of Revelation. For example, here is what St. Andrew writes, Archbishop of Caesarea: "Removal of this print and all other some refer to the dispensation of the incarnation of God the Word, the first - to Christmas, the second - to the baptism, the third - to the former divine signs, .. the fourth - to condemnation by Pilate, the fifth - the crucifixion, the sixth - to the position in the coffin and the seventh - to the destruction and captivity of hell "[4]

But all this is followed by a very significant caveat:

"After reading the interpretation of Methodius, we fully agree with his opinion that" there is no need to attribute it to the unborn Christ, "for the mystery of the Incarnation of the Word of God was made ​​many before this revelation."

All the same, it seems reasonable to consider the whole cycle of opening prints as a solid period from time "X" - the beginning of the implementation of a conditional signs - before the second coming of Jesus Christ. And so, our task is not to pick a reasonable interpretation of the secret image, but can search in the history of this conditional moment "X" of starting removing prints from the Sacred book, or, as we have suggested, the commencement of the described in the second chapter of apocalyptic signs.

Prophetic Millennium

  In order to try to see in the history the possible year of the beginning of achievements of predicted events or the time of the opening of the seals, we should pay attention to the prophecy of the thousand-year period in the history of the Church of Christ, referred to the twentieth chapter of Revelation.

This prophecy is conventionally divided into two major conceptual blocks:

1) the binding of Satan for a thousand years, and his appearance for a short time after a specified period of time;

2) The millennial reign of the saints with Christ.

  a) Binding of Satan.

  "And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season ". (Revelation. 20: 1-3)

b) his appearance a short time.

  "And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison". (Revelation. 20: 7)

c) The millennial reign of the saints with Christ.

  "And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.

Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years ". (Revelation. 20: 4-6)

d) After appearance of Satan and his destruction.

  "And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.
And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.
And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death
". (Revelation. 20: 12-14)

  It is important to understand if they say here about two different millennia, or is it one period. Logic dictates that it's about the same period. Satan is bound, and it's the same period of the reign of the saints with Christ. And since the reign of Christ has never ceased, we can understand that we are in the prophecy of St. John the Divine is not a literal kingdom of Christ, which is "not of this world" (John 18:36), and which has never ceased, but it is the reign of the saints with Christ, or some important period in the history of the Christian Church, which is characterized by a period of one thousand years.

Many interpreters of prophecy are deceived thinking that we are talking about some senses, or the actual resurrection of Chosen, and sensory binding of Satan, which hasn't been and never will in the history. The Bible says that Satan and his angels prepared for the fire at the end of human history. Once and for ever, not for a thousand years. As the saying goes, there is only one sense - that is, the actual, not figurative - resurrection of the dead at the end of human history.

Next, we look at why the millennial reign of the saints with Christ sensual, that is, in the form of appearance for a limited period of earthly paradise for Chosen won't be. Now let's say what is in our understanding the millennial reign of the saints with Christ as the thousand-year period the binding of Satan - it's the one same period, the essence of which can't be understood literally. As Satan doesn't bind senses, but it is only an allegory, and there is no resurrection of sensory elected to reign with Christ, it is also an allegory. And it is permitted as follows. In the history of mankind, there is a period when there was a lot of martyrs for Christ, as prophesied:

"Souls of beheaded for the witness of Jesus and for the word of God ..... and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years"

This period is limited in time, and it's not just a long time, but it is a thousand years exactly. This is the period of the New Testament history, which is the most favorable for the Christian Church. That's what allegories say "binding of Satan" and "the reign of the saints with Christ."

The falsity of the doctrine of chiliasm [5]

  The essence of the doctrine of chiliasm ("chiliasmos" - millennium), or the millennial kingdom of Christ is as follows: "long before the end of the world Christ the Savior will come again to the ground, hit the Antichrist, resurrect the righteous and make a new kingdom on earth in which the righteous as a reward for their deeds and suffering will reign with Him a thousand years to continue enjoying all the benefits of a life time. Then the second, the general resurrection of the dead will follow, the general court and universal eternal retribution. "

However, the doctrine of chiliasts was known in two forms. Some said that Christ, when he will make his millennial kingdom, restore Jerusalem in all its glory, again enters the execution of ritual law of Moses with all the victims, and that the happiness of the righteous will be in all sorts of sensual pleasures. So heretic Cerinthus taught in the first century, imbued with false Jewish and Gnostic beliefs, and after him other heretics continued: Ebionites, Montanists, and in the fourth century - the heretic Apollinaris and his followers. Others, however, argued that the blessedness of the righteous during the millennial reign of Christ will be only in the pleasures of the innocent, pure, spiritual, and won't preach nor to resume then Jerusalem, nor the restoration of the ceremonial law of Moses. Such an opinion about millennium for the first time was suggested by Papias, who lived back in the apostolic age; then it was found in Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Hippolytus, Methodius and Lactantius; in later times resumed, with some features, by anabaptists, followers of Schvedenborg and other mystics and the Illuminates. But neither the first nor the last of its kind chiliasm doctrine can't be accepted by Orthodox Christian ... For

  1. In both its forms it is based on the assumption, that the resurrection of the dead will be double: the first thousand years before the end of the world, the resurrection of the righteous; another - before the end of the world, when sinners, and the last judgment and eternal universal retribution will rise. Meanwhile, the Savior with all the clarity taught that there will be only one resurrection of the dead - the universal one, when in the last day, according to his voice, saints and sinners together will rise from their graves and directly take from him the final judgment and the final retribution;


  "And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day ". (Jn. 6: 39.40)

"Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation ". (Jn. 5: 28,29).

  More clearly it's expressed is the Savior's parable of the strong tares, when he said:

  "Let both grow together and the other (ie, wheat and tares) until the harvest; and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn. "

And further:

"He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man; The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one; The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels. As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. . "(Matf.13: 37-43)

  2. In both its forms it allows coming of Christ the Savior to the earth for a thousand years before the end of the world, contrary to the teachings of the Word of God, which preaches only two comings of Christ: the first - destroyed one, when He came to redeem us (Matthew 20:28); and the second - a nice one, close to the end of the world when He will appear to judge the living and the dead. While still on the ground, during his first coming, the Lord said about His Second, the future coming:

  "For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works ". (Matf.16 27).

or:

"When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left ". . (Mt. 25: 31-33)

  3. In its first form is contrary to, in particular, teachings of the Word of God, that in the resurrection they neither marry, not infringe (Matthew 22:30) (Luke. 20: 34-35), that the kingdom of God is not eating and not drinking (Rom 14:17), and that the ceremonial law of Moses, who had only representatively value until the coming of the Savior, He canceled it forever and replaced by the perfect law, the New Testament (Acts 15: 23-30) (Romans 6:14) (Gal 5: 6) (Heb 10: 1), and others.

  4. If the doctrine of chiliasm in its final form, and kept some of the ancient teachers of the Church - Justin, Irenaeus, Methodius; it held only as a private opinion, and not as a dogma, according to the testimony of the same Justin, who notes that he thinks so, along with some, but many Christians of pure and orthodox faith didn't share his beliefs. This fact is no doubt that -

  5. Other teachers of the Church at the same time directly rebelled against the doctrine of chiliast: Kay, presbyter of Rome, St. Dionysius of Alexandria, Origen, Eusebius of Caesarea, Tikhon African, St. Basil the Great, St. Gregory the Theologian, St. Epiphanius, Bl. Jerome, Filastry and Blessed Augustine, - calling teaching chiliasts pure fiction, fables, funny, ridiculous, totally contrary to St. Scripture.

  6. If we could hold the doctrine of chiliasm as private opinion, only as long as Universal Church expressed its voice. But when the Second Ecumenical Council (381) condemning all errors of heretic Apollinaris condemned his teaching about the millennium of Christ and made ​​for the creed of the word of Christ: "His kingdom there shall be no end" - to be held this doctrine, even in as a private opinion is absolutely unpardonable to Orthodox Christian.

  7. In support of his thoughts chiliasts usually indicate the 20th chapter of the Apocalypse, which sets out a vision of St. John the Divine, as an angel, having the keys of hell, came down from heaven, tied and bound the devil into the bottomless pit for a thousand years, as it was then the first resurrection, when Christ's followers came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years, as at the end of a thousand years, Satan will be allowed out of prison ... for a little while, and will deceive nations, and will soon follow the trial of all the dead and resurrected eternal retribution for them and the Devil. but -

a) It is known that the Apocalypse is a prophetic book and deeply mysterious, the meaning of which is exactly not available to us. To interpret literally the prophetic places, if they appear in this form to contradict other Scriptures, direct and clear, id quite contrary to the rules of saint hermeneutics, which prescribes valid in such cases interpret the prophecies in the sense of the mysterious: because God which gave humans revelation can't contradict himself.

b) How to understand the mysterious meaning of the 20th chapter of the Apocalypse, the best interpreters of it, along with St Augustine, shall declare this chapter as follows: the name of the angel who came down from heaven, having the keys of hell, of course messenger of the covenant - the Lord Jesus who came to earth, to his death abolition of the propertied power of death, devil (Hebrews 2:14), to destroy the works of the devil on earth (John 12:31); under the name of connectedness and the conclusion of the devil in prison to say that the Lord by His preaching, His multiple experiments exorcism of the people, and especially by his death, in fact, drove the devil out, tied good (Matthew 12:29), He has stripped his principalities and powers, plagued boldness to shame, beating on the cross (Col. 2:15). Under the name of the millennial kingdom of Christ the whole course indefinite period of time from the beginning of the blessed kingdom of Christ on earth, or in fact ever since, as the Church might be made under Constantine the great triumph and dominant in the world until the end of time - according to the psalmist.

  "He hath remembered his covenant for ever, the word \ that \ commanded to a thousand generations" (Psalm 104: 8) means vaguely all future generations of men before the end of the world. Under the name of the first resurrection is hidden the resurrection of people in spiritual Christianity, which begins in their communication, justification and regeneration, respectively, said: "Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light". (Ephesians 5:14), and ends when souls of true Christians move from the present life, that was for them as it were death, into real life with Jesus Christ. Further, the resolution of the devil out of prison for a short time to deceive nations, is an appearance of Antichrist on the earth shortly before the end of the world. Finally, the court of all the dead come alive and retribution to both them and the devil is universal, the final judgment, and the last retribution. "[5]

  In general, the prophecy of the millennial reign of the saints with Christ had always a variety of interpretations. However, it seems clear to the reader in general are expounded. The question of the "millennial reign revived in the flesh of the righteous" is removed, as has been said, the decision of the Second Ecumenical Council (381) condemned chiliasm.

It remains, however, an open question about the nature of the millennial reign and his physical life. It seems odd, doesn't it, the question of the term of the millennial reign. However, many people believe a thousand years of Revelation is some "indefinite period", which is proposed to calculate any of the reign of Christ, according to His ascension into heaven, or, as we saw earlier, from the time of Constantine the Great (324-337) - from the time as the Church "might be made a triumphant and dominant in the world." This idea is quite attractive. Indeed, the time of the reign of Jesus Christ can be called all His earthly incarnation and more - for ever and ever! But if we try to find in the history of a period of prosperity of the Church, you have to look, really, not until the third century.

Millennial reign of our Lord Jesus Christ on earth [6]

  "Jesus Christ was born the King" (Matthew 2: 1-2). His very name of Christ means Anointed or King. The first word of his teaching was to inform people that to them the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 4:17), that is, come to earth to reign He - the king of the sky. Words reign on the earth, we mean not to wear purple and a crown, by the people, to judge them, reward and punish according to the laws, what guided the kings of the earth; but there is a reign of above it, which commands themselves kings - reign over the souls of men, their minds and will, which judges the thoughts and movements of their heart, rewards and punishes sovereignly and temporal and eternal reward or punishment, has willingly elements of the world, seen and unseen . This is the reign of our Lord Jesus Christ! It began on the legislation set out in his teaching, marked by deeds, that you can only expect from the King of kings, it is firmly established on the ground and etched cross and His resurrection. His earthly kingdom bears the specific name, unlike the names of all the kingdoms of this world; It is the Church, that is connected to the community of believers, or his loyalists. Like every king is the head of his people, and Christ is the head of the Church, which is His body (Ephesians 1:23). Province of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ on earth was first elected in a small circle of his disciples, and then expanded across the face of the earth. Jesus Christ, in His ascension into heaven, though become more invisible to humans, but in the meantime he reigned and reigns over an area of ​​his own, as the King of the heavenly and earthly king. He promised to present himself in the midst of his subjects, and, of course, in order to control his people and to listen to his requests; is His unchanging word:

  "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them". (Mat.18 20)

  But as he is the king not one of any of the people, but of all generations and nations of men, and announced that in the face of all the peoples His Apostles that He would be available to all, not separated from all and, moreover, at any time, in the following words:

   "Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. "(Mat.28: 20).

  From these words, we conclude that we live in the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ, which continues until the time when the release will be a little while from the bonds of a hostile spirit ....; and it will happen before the end of the world, long before the time when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father after destroying every rule and every authority and power (1 Cor. 15:24); then adds the Apostle:

  "For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death ". (1 Cor. 15: 25-26)

  Do you need proof that the Lord Jesus Christ reigns on earth? One has only to read the annals of the Church of Christ, to be sure, in this undeniable truth. How many enemies she was from the original, apparently weak dispensation it! .... And the Church has extended its fertile canopy far above the many kingdoms and nations. Romans armed the whole world against the Church of Christ, led a bloody war against her for three centuries; it seemed she would have to be razed to the ground; Meanwhile, Roman domination and the most pagan Rome fell irrevocably; The Church of Christ is majestic, triumphant and dominant. Not the lesser evil experienced the Holy Church of perfidious their sons. Heresies and schisms resented her peace, intensified darken her purity and holiness. Heresy disappeared gradually as the stinking smoke, and in the midst of darkness opened a vast multitude of proven Christ-lovers, generous defenders of truth and insightful eloquent philosophers and orators, who gave a special clarity, light, beauty, strength and power of the tenets and ordinances of Orthodoxy.

Later centuries, even in our time, human passions, prejudices and freethinking repeatedly raised the banner of revolt against the Church of Christ; All such motions depraved human will find in themselves a decent penalty; and the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ remains stationary as a high rock that hides its majestic brow in the sky, inaccessible, surrounded by lightning and thunder of God, or how branchy and dense tree under whose shade and refuge and rest now almost all the nations of the universe. Who produces such miracles over the fate of the Church of Christ, as not one that Her Head? Whose hands can be strong enough to save her from crushing blows and infernal and human malice, excepted, which prophetically said before the foundation of Her: "And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it "(Mat.16: 18)?

  And if the Lord Jesus Christ kept His Church and to store, manage, and run it, it means that he reigned and reigns. Ap. Paul said:

  "For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living". (Romans 14: 9).

  Don't ask anyone how it could be on the ground when on the ground a lot of wrongs, the vices and all sorts of lawlessness, as it is written somewhere: world lieth in wickedness. (1 Jn. 5:19). - We are responsible for it and drew something on the land of God, human-lover, to destroy the works of darkness, or, as the Scripture has said, the devil (1 John. 3: 8). Let's remember the Lord's answer to the Pharisees said to him the reproach that he should eat and drink with publicans and sinners:

  "But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance ". (Mat.9: 12,13)


  How many of these patients healed in the reign of Jesus Christ on earth to our times! May be objected that if the Lord's kingdom on earth, then why is it less righteous in this world, but sinners more? Doesn't it diminished through this power of Jesus Christ? Does it supply a reason to bewilderment and his reign? The least. If He didn't reign, the whole world would be filled with some sinners. But the reign of the Lord Jesus Christ is that although He calls and wants to make everyone in his kingdom, but accepts only worthy and unworthy unbelievers, reject Him, reserves in the kingdom of darkness...
  "But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his ". (Rom. 8: 9).

  Jesus Christ said:

   "For many are called, but few are chosen". (Matf.22 14)

  The reign of our Lord Jesus Christ performed in miracles amazing and even incomprehensible to the human mind. It is like a beautiful flower, planted in the midst of wild and weedy plants that are overgrown, jostle him, but not as strong or drown, nor take away from it beauty and fragrance; because it is protected by the invisible power of the King, who at times expels those plants and throw them into the burning. It met several times with the vicissitudes of mundane, but always triumphed over them. Sometimes flourished in peace and quiet, sometimes subjected to bloody wars.

In times of persecution, it came to such a state that seemed exhausted, but never lost his inner strength: the infidelity of some of his subjects richly rewarded multiplies the martyrs who made it more glorious and majestic flowering, rather than what it was in the world. St. Ambrose compares the church or kingdom of Christ on earth with the moon, which disappears at times, but it remains non-disappeared; eclipsed it can, but does not disappear. The Kingdom of Christ is the whole people seemed, to be delivered in different places hymns that were sung loudly in honor and praise of God their King and Lord; then resided in solitary cells, in the deserts, mostly in the human heart; because Jesus Christ, and pointed to the important thing is the place of his reign in a few words: "The kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:21). He said that it will not come to meet, that is, so that was noticeable to see was he - the King of His kingdom; order and added the following: when they say to you

  "And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there: go not after them, nor follow them. For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day ". (Luke 17: 23-24).

  That is a strong and decisive refutation against all who thought that Jesus Christ would come to earth to reign probably a thousand years before His second coming.
What does it mean that a thousand years, when the Lord's kingdom on earth for over 1,900 years? [written in the beginning of XX century] Obviously, reckoning that not what the numbers show, but means for long life - the number of well-known, full, rounded, which is eating instead of the number of years of the same, but unknown, hidden by the will of God from our knowledge. In St. Scripture multiplicity is often expressed a thousand or thousands; for example, the Lord God says about Himself that

  "And showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments". (Deut. 5:10).

  Prophet David, comparing eternity of God with human chronology, said:

  "For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night" (Psalm 90: 4)

  and communication. Apostle reiterated that a thousand years before God as one day and one day is as a thousand years (2 Peter 3: 8). And under the word millennium, we can understand a lot of years, but certain of its value in a prophetic sense, we do not know. For the understanding of our rather know that the end of the free reign of the Church of Christ on earth will be the end of the millennial reign of grace, the Lord Jesus Christ; and this will happen when you are gloomy retreat that rise up in the Church of Christ with all the seduction and threats and produce language, similar to that which broken out over the Christians of pagan Rome "[6]

From the foregoing, the thoughtful reader will understand clearly the following: the reign of Christ began with His coming into the world, never interrupted, and never were finished as the Lord: "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world". (Matt. 28:20). And, as has already been said, the prophetic millennial reign of the saints with Christ should not be seen as a true reign of Christ, for it constantly, and as a period in the history of Christianity - the history of the Orthodox Church of Christ, which is closely related to the inverse relationship with the activity of Satan - with increased activity of the Church of Satan decreases, and vice versa.

Periods in the history of the Church

  Satan was ousted from heaven to earth " in the great fury of his power " ( Rev. 12: 7-12), because he was defeated by the Lamb ( Jesus Christ). He begins his destructive activities on earth : the persecution of heresy. After this is approved by the Church as the predominant religion on earth ("dragon bound "). But before the end of time on the " little season" opposite picture comes as enhanced Satan , love grows cold in humans, multiply transgressions . All this leads to the victory of Satan " on the saints " ( Daniel 7: 25) , and the enthronement of the Antichrist for 3.5 years " to perfect to scatter the power of the holy people " (or Orthodox Christianity ) ( Daniel 12: 7). All this time, the reign of Christ never ends , it does not leave the world of God's grace , without which the world does not stand for , and seconds. The kingdom of Christ , as St. Ambrose said , only " can eclipsed, but not disappear." At the same time , Satan was cast out of the world and was not finally defeated , because he should be " put to death by the spirit of the mouth" of the Word of God definitively only at the end of history ( 2Fess.2 8 Rev. 19: 20-21). That is, the complete victory over evil wasn't there, was only the period of its associated or bound in existence on earth . However, before the end of the world evil on a "little season" will skyrocket. Thus, we are faced with the task of finding some important period of the history associated with the strengthening of the Church of Christ .

The duration of this period we believe to be equal to a thousand years. We know that the Lord , opening his chosen important knowledge about the future , often adheres exactly to the day ( Daniel 12: 11-12). And it's not clear why in this case we need to understand a thousand years as something else .

Thousand years in the history of Christianity

  Consider a general history of the Church of Christ the approval on the ground. The most important historical period is the time of the messianic activity of Jesus Christ

  30 to 34 years AD

  Next comes the so-called apostolic period , which lasted until about the end of the first century

34 - 100 AD

  Apostolic period and subsequent centuries - until the third century - is the period of heavy for Christianity. This is the period of persecution by the pagan Roman Empire. But the time has come , and Christianity was recognized by the state government. For the first time this has happened during the reign of Constantine the Great ( 306 - 337 ) who moved the capital to Constantinople ( 330) and recognized Christianity as the state religion :

313 - the Edict of exemption was issued from taxes churches proconsul of Africa Tsetsilian

319 - Constantine freed the church and clergy from taxes and public service obligations .

321 - approved for the churches the right to acquire real estate and own it.

 
Since that time period, the final days of the Church , marked with seven Ecumenical Councils . The final formation of the dogmatic framework of Christianity begins as a holistic religious outlook. At the Ecumenical Councils dogmatic is approved , heretical distortions are condemned and misunderstandings of words and teachings of the Lord are corrected .

  History knows Seven Ecumenical Councils :

  325 AD - I Nicaea Council

  Council was convened by the Emperor Constantine the Great , in order to put an end to the dispute between Bishop Alexander of Alexandria and Arius , who denied the consubstantiality of Christ to God the Father. According to Arius and his numerous supporters , Christ is not God , and the first and most perfect of creatures created by God .

The Council condemned Arianism developed Creed defined the celebration of Easter . He also held that Christ became man , that is, it had not only the human body, but also the human soul.

381 - I Council of Constantinople

  Cathedral adopted the dogma of the procession of the Holy Spirit from the Father , of equality and consubstantiality of God the Holy Spirit with the other persons of the Holy Trinity - God the Father and God the Son ; supplemented and approved the Creed in the edition , called Nicene ( Nicene- Constantinople).

Repeated condemnation of Arianism . Cathedral explains that the humanity of Christ is not a barrier to be him, and God

  431 - Council of Ephesus

  Condemnation of Nestorianism . Besides Nestorius in his definition Cathedral condemns Keleste's philosophizing . Keleste or Celeste , preaching heresy of Pelagia, denying the significance of original sin and the necessity of grace for salvation .
Prohibits changes Nicene Creed. Cathedral explains that the human nature of Christ is taken without any blemish , unchanged.

451 - Chalcedon Council

The doctrine of the two natures in the person of Jesus Christ, which would be alien to the extremes of Nestorianism and Monophysitism . In between these two extremes is the doctrine orthodox. Made up 30 of the rules of church order .

  553 - II Council of Constantinople

  Council was convened on the dispute between the followers of Nestorius and Eutyches . The main subject of dispute were the works of the three teachers of the Syrian Church who used at one time known , namely, Theodore of Mopsuestia , Theodoret of Cyrus , and Ibas of Edessa , which clearly expressed the Nestorian error , and on the Fourth Ecumenical Council, nothing was mentioned about these three works.

Nestorians in a dispute with Monophysites referred to these works , and Monophysites found this excuse to reject most Fourth Ecumenical Council and argued that the Orthodox Church would be avoided if a Nestorian .

680-681 - III Council of Constantinople

Cathedral was convened against the teachings Monothelites who recognized in Jesus Christ has two natures , divine and human , but a divine will . Council condemned and repudiated the doctrine Monothelites as heresy and decided to recognize in Jesus Christ has two natures - divine and human , and these two natures - two wills , but that the human will in Christ is not nasty and submissive to the will of God .

787 - II Council of Nicaea

Council was convened against the iconoclasm that emerged in the 60 years before the Council , when the Byzantine emperor Leo the Isaurian , who, wishing to remove the obstacles to a peaceful neighborhood with Muslims , considered it necessary to abolish the veneration of icons . Church could not stop the movement of the iconoclasts . This was done only in the Council of Constantinople 843 years of the Empress Theodora . To celebrate the final victory over the iconoclasts and all heretics was set Feast of Orthodoxy.

At the Ecumenical Councils of Christianity finally took shape . Was formulated by the Creed , and received the condemnation of many heresies . At the Seventh Ecumenical Council was condemned iconoclasm . However, after a little while - during the reign of Leo V the Armenian - there was a return to iconoclasm , but on a smaller scale . The final point in this epic set Cathedral on March 11 843 (old style) , which is not considered to be ecumenical , but was called to confirm the decisions of the Seventh Ecumenical Council . And in honor of this event is set holiday , called " Triumph of Orthodoxy." Holiday , this is still celebrated every year on the first Sunday of Lent.

Historically , within the meaning of , in the spirit of this date , no matter how different what is best suited to determine the beginning of the " thousand-year reign of the saints with Christ ."

Shortly thereafter (about 859-863 years) Cyril and Methodius and finish work on the Cyrillic alphabet , and carried out the first translations of the Bible and all liturgical texts .

Baptizing of Rus ( 980) .

Fall of Constantinople ( 1453), and Byzantium disappear. Move the center of Orthodoxy in Moscow . Although the spirit of Orthodoxy lived in the vast Russia - Thousands of churches, temples, monasteries and around the world in the Local Orthodox Churches .

Can a 843 year be the year of the beginning of the millennial reign of the saints with Christ , and the beginning of the thousand-year binding of Satan? We think it can. For if we understand the reign of Christ literally, it would have to be regarded as the beginning of the reign after his ascension , or even from the moment of Incarnation . But then it turns out the problem : there is no one else with Christ reign - there was no more martyrs and " beheaded for the witness of Jesus and for the word of God," while at the time of completion of the Orthodox Church , those who suffered during the Roman Empire , were a great many .

Thus, we have , we think, we can say that the start point of the thousand-year period called the period of the reign of the saints with Christ and the period of the binding of Satan , is 843 years old . And, accordingly, the thousand-year period that we are looking for - this is the period from the year 843 to 1843 .

Beast- kingdoms of Daniel's prophecy .

  Let's look at some interesting prophetic cycle , which may be important for our study. The prophet Daniel we find images that resonate with the images of the Apocalypse. It's about four beasts : the first - as a lion , and the second - as the bear , the third - as a leopard [ lynx ], and the fourth - scary one. Consider this prophetic cycle more:

"And four great beasts came up from the sea, diverse one from another.

The first was like a lion, and had eagle's wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man's heart was given to it.

And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh .

After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it.

After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns ". ( Daniel 7: 3-7)

  The fact that this is the realm of the angel tells to Daniel:

"These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth". (Daniel 7: 17)

Moreover, it goes on to say definitely that these four kingdoms , which appeared on the earth, will be the kingdom of evil , after which the kingdom will be " saints of the Most High ." Thus, more than 500 years before the birth of Christ Angel Daniel foretold events to happen at the end of the world.

Some commentators see in the four kingdoms the Old Testament kingdoms : the Chaldeans ( Babylon), Medo- Persian, Greek ( Alexander the Great) and Roman . Two of whom Daniel had seen .

However, this interpretation is more suited to the interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream . On that Daniel , explaining the king's dream , says: " More three kingdoms will rise after thee " and " one of them - you " ( King of Babylon ) ( Daniel 2: 38-40) And it is a dream of Nebuchadnezzar golden head statue likened to the kingdom of the Chaldeans (Babylonian ), chest and arms of silver statue - Medo- Persian kingdom , the kingdom like copper - the empire of Alexander the Great , and iron - Roman . And according to the prophetic dream interpreted by Daniel, in the days of the Roman Empire , God " set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed " (Daniel 2:44 ) This refers to the kingdom of Christ - His Church , which shall not prevail against the "gates of hell " to the end of the age .

We pay attention to the fact that God revealed to Daniel the meaning of Nebuchadnezzar's dream , and the prophet was in charge of coming after the Babylonian empire . At the same time , when he was - much later - shown in the vision of four beasts Daniel " trembled" and " confused" and found it necessary to seek clarification from the Angel ( Daniel 7:15 , 16). And by the end of the explanation, it speaks of his confusion as follows:

  "Hitherto is the end of the matter. As for me Daniel, my cogitations much troubled me, and my countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart" ( Daniel 7:28) .

  We must assume that if we were talking about what Daniel saw many years ago (explaining Nebuchadnezzar's dream ) - change of kingdoms, in which he had to live - that Daniel would never experienced such strong feelings against what he saw at this time. In addition, in the last vision he was shown the court " Ancient of Days" over the nations , and that the " like the Son of the Man" (Jesus Christ ) receives from Him an everlasting kingdom .

"And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed " (Daniel 7:14)

Thus, we can assume that the four beasts described by Daniel are four kingdoms , which shall be approved on the ground in a certain period of human history, not a modern Daniel. And he completed the accession of the Holy of Holies , the kingdom will not break down for ever.

In the sequence , the Lord could His chosen righteous show first that the world is waiting in the near future : the four kingdoms of the world of the Old Testament ( Explanation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream ), and then - shortly before the death of Daniel, - four kingdoms that " arise out of the earth" after the birth of Christ.

It should be noted that the four beasts of Daniel's vision , combined in one form beast with seven heads and ten horns . And it is such a beast was featured in the book of Revelation ( Rev. 13: 1). It has "parts" of the four beasts of Daniel's prophecy of the lion, bear and leopard :

  "And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority" . (Revelation . 13: 2 ).

Daniel's and John 's beasts are out of the sea. A sea , waters , rivers - in both cases they are treated as a way of peoples.

But let's back to the first kingdom - beast.

"The first was like a lion, and had eagle's wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man's heart was given to it" . (Daniel 7: 4) .

It needs to say that the image of the prophets " give a man's heart " means - to open people's understanding of the true God. So in the book of Jeremiah we read :

"And I will give them an heart to know me, that I am the LORD: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God: for they shall return unto me with their whole heart". ( Jeremiah 24: 7 ) See also Ier.32 39 Iez.11 19 Iez.36 26 .

With this allegory angel showed Daniel that empire will be unprecedented cruelty to God's people , but later the empire will give a large number of Christians. That is what happened with the pagan Roman Empire . May 11 of the year 330 , Constantine the Great officially transferred the capital of the Roman Empire in the city on the Bosphorus , and be named it New Rome , Constantinople . That is , in fact, Byzantium - the first Christian state in the world , came out of the once hostile to Christians of the pagan Roman Empire.

But here's something about the eagles' wings of the image A.P. Lopuhin says in the " Explanatory Bible": "In the book of Daniel the first world monarchy , contemplated under the symbol of a lion, eagle wings attributed ( 7: 4). In the Roman Empire , the eagle was used as the national coat of arms on the flags and coins. From the time of Herod the Great , it was placed at the Temple of Jerusalem and the Jewish coins. This symbol of regal birds author would like to set off on the one hand , the extraordinary power and strength of the Roman Empire that reigned over almost the entire world, with its other predatory inclinations "[7]

Thus, the first beast of Daniel's prophecy can mean the Roman Empire . The second , third and fourth beast of this prophetic cycle in our logic are also the godless kingdoms , or outbreaks of godless activity of a particular duration of approximately equal strength. So equal , that they are in a row , and even merge into one beast in Revelation .

Roman Empire shown to Daniel in the lion disappears in 476 , but before it got out of God's people - Christians . In fact, 330 years can be considered as the date of occurrence of the first Christian state - Byzantium . It was one of the most important stages of the approval of the Church of Christ on earth . After that Christianity for centuries drawn , producing and burnishing theological and dogmatic beliefs on the side of the Seven Ecumenical Councils (from 325 to 787 ). A Cathedral on March 11 843 , which was not considered to be ecumenical , but was called to confirm the decisions of the Seventh Ecumenical Council , and in whose honor the feast is set " Triumph of Orthodoxy," is like the final point of this development.

  And as has already been said , we believe the most appropriate 843 year for the calculation of the beginning of the prophetic Millennium referred to in the Book of Revelation .

Next is the most suitable for a millennium of Christ's Church , named in Revelation millennial period of the binding of Satan and the millennial reign of the saints with Christ. Therefore, at this time it is not necessary to look for other "kingdom of the beast" of Daniel 's prophetic cycle .

Thousand-year period is not chiliastic paradise on earth . During this period, there were a lot of sad as well as bright pages in the history of the world : the fall of Byzantium , the disengagement from the western part of the Christian Church ( Catholicism), the Crusades, but also the baptism of Russia , the emergence of a great number of saints , his life and miracles to glorify the Church and Orthodoxy . Built churches, monasteries, came to spread Christianity . Millions of people across the land, learning the Word of God , became the faithful children of the Church , accepting Christ as their Savior , building a life according to the commandments , anxiously keeping the tradition and spirit of Orthodoxy in their hearts , making the Mystical Body of Christ - the Orthodox Church .

Much else can be said about the orthodoxy of these centuries , and much books has been written about it. Those who want, can easily and independently investigate this question. To us it's more important to deal with the question of whether the millennium of the prophetic cycle was talking about John the Theologian in his Revelation , exactly thousand years old, and not just some long period ? And if this is true, then we must consider what happened to the world in 1843 - exactly 1,000 years after the set holiday called " Triumph of Orthodoxy."

Sources:  

1. "The Bible of Holy Scripture " (3m ) // reprint Savvino Storozhevsky Monastery Design: "Rule of Faith" M ., 1999

2 ."The Bible of scripture of the Old and New Testament " canonical in Russian translation with parallel passages , 1991

3. Father Seraphim Rose, "How to be Orthodox" Pochayiv Lavra
4. "The Apocalypse. Interpretation of St. Andrew, Archbishop of Caesarea ", Kiev., 2002 Typography of Kiev Lavra - p.160

5. Christ. Reading 1852. II 398-400 // reprint. 1889 "Apocalypse in interpretive and didactic reading " M . Barsov , group of Holy Trinity- Saint Seraphim Diveevsky Convent "Skit ", 1993  

6. F . Yakovlev, "Apostles", Issue 2, page 374 // reprint 1889 "Interpretation of the Apocalypse", Moscow, 2000

7. A .P. Lopuhin "Explanatory Bible" Volume 7 Ch. 11 (3Book of Ezra)

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter IV

1843-1844 years

"... I saw clearly how Death

exults, rose from the grave "

Heine

I would like to start with the work of Heinrich Heine (1797 -1856) "Atta Troll." Author is German Jew who converted to Lutheranism in 1825, which he called "an entry ticket into the European society" [3] The poem "Atta Troll", written in the 1841 and left a book in 1843. It is necessary to briefly describe the subject of the poem to make it clear why this work I want to use as a prologue to all further developments.

The protagonist of Atta Troll is a bear dreaming about getting rid of the yoke of the people, "the vile creature that is called man." He keeps saying to his children about the need to "overthrow the tyrant" to establish in the world "kingdom of justice animal", in which, however, a Jew is not equated to the people he wants to destroy, and to his brethren: "Even the heathen, the Jews were given the right citizenship. " In fairness it should be noted that in 1823 Prussia depriving Jews of civil rights, and Heine became, as he himself wrote, "the sworn enemy of the Prussian regime."

Atta Troll says about the "great day of deliverance" and makes the son bear swear "eternal hatred to the people" on the idol altar, which was once human sacrifices, instructing him: "Be an implacable enemy of the oppressors of the damned, their fierce enemy to the grave! "

Christian only outwardly, Heine makes it clear about his preferences when he speaks on behalf of the hunter, companion of the living dead - the son of a witch. And watching from a window at midnight witch's hut games of ghosts:

"As in the theater, in the best seats,

I could watch the spectacle,

Seen clearly as Death

exults, rose from the grave. " etc.

Ghosts chasing some "large red wild game." Among this host of the dead it particularly attracts "dead Jew" - the wife of Herod, who holds a dish with the head of St. John, with whom she becomes very loose, sometimes throwing it like a ball. Heine with words of Hunter offers her to throw in the trash, "this dish with his head is bloody fool." And he admits that he would like "to ride himself" nights of "Hunter is a fun, dislike the cross and flour."

In the poem, there is a set of gloomy images and allegories: like ball bears to the dead, or a strange legend about bears fight with the giants, which reports that when the people were, the Giants ran and threw themselves into the sea.

Generally, a poem just oversaturated images, the hidden meaning of which among contemporaries, for sure, few could understand. I don't want to demonize the poet who can only, as it's often can be with men of genius, intuitively anticipate something, speaking some repeater, which together with his contemporaries "says transcendental." Anyway, this poem can be justly regarded as a prelude to the 1843-44 years, and all followed the same time, which John said about, "Satan will be released for a short time" (Revelation 20: 3).

Comets and celestial phenomena.

Shooting Stars in 1833

November 12, 1833 in the night sky an unusual phenomenon was observed that has come in all the textbooks as "star rain." ".. .On Earth some hurricane hit with falling stars" - Agnes Clarke says in her book "Public History of Astronomy in the XIX century" [4]. "Due to the stargazing in 1833 study of meteorites once and for ever became an integral part of astronomy." She further said: "The main attack took over North America. All the way from the Gulf of Mexico to Halifax sky draws in all directions with smears and covered with majestic fireballs. Only the day that came, though not immediately, put an end to this phenomenon. "

"Morning of November 13, 1833 was memorable because of the phenomenon of" falling stars "- probably one of the largest and most magnificent in the history of mankind ... Perhaps no celestial phenomenon since the first settlers in this country is not perceived with admiration and delight by one part of spectators and with such amazement and fear - by the other. For a long time, "the meteor phenomenon" remained the main topic of conversation, "- Denison Olmsted wrote, Professor of Mathematics at Yale University.

"American scientific journal" reported in 1833: "Although the moon wasn't there when we watched them for the first time, the brightness of them was so great that sometimes we could make out much stress the normal font. Sheds they whiter were much lighter than the moon on a clear frosty night, when the ground is covered with snow. "

After a thorough study of the subject, astronomers have concluded that such meteor events occur every thirty-three years. Yet the phenomenon of 1833 was unique in its drama. Since it was not compared to any stargazing 1866, nor, especially, in 1899. [5]

Comets

In March 1843 the comet approaches the Earth, which many considered a harbinger of doom. She even went into the books as "The March Large comet in 1843." Length of the tail of the comet was 200 million miles, which is 58 million miles greater than the distance from the Sun to Mars! During its return to Earth, astronomers determined to be 512.4 years.

In June 1845 the Earth is again approaching a large comet. This time with a period of treatment in 102050 years.

Tebbutta Comet (1861 II) was bright as Saturn, and its tail is held in the sky angle of 120 degrees, that is, two-thirds of the distance from one horizon to the other. She was so bright that it many times confused with a rising moon. Other large and bright comet appeared in 1861 and 1882.

From the middle of the XIX century until 1910, when the firmament of the comet was visible even in the daytime, which received the name of the Comets for daylight appeared no less than five very bright comets! For comparison, Halley's Comet appearing in 1833 and 1910, not one of them.

Earthquakes

John Cumming in his book "The seventh vessel" describes this time: "Between 1800 and 1865 only in the former borders of the Roman Empire there were at least 35 powerful and destructive earthquakes, which can't fail to attract the attention of the historian. On ... the Scandinavian peninsula and in Iceland from 1700 to 1850 there were 224; in Spain and Portugal - 178; in France, Belgium and the Netherlands - 600 ... On the Apennine peninsula and in the eastern Mediterranean during the period from 1800 to 1850 there were more than 800 earthquakes. " [5]

Natural disasters in the second quarter of the XIX century in Russia [6]

Winter 1839 was extremely cold. In some places, Russians lost about a third of cattle. It was followed by late spring frosts with returns. Sown with a delay of a month. First bread suffered from untimely spring frosts, then of continuous rains that poured down in torrents and the Vilna province, and in St. Petersburg, willows Stavropol Territory. Meanwhile, in South Russia "winter grains almost disappeared from the drought." In 1840, he was one of the worst crops of rye in the XIX century. Disaster was particularly sensitive because poor harvest grasped the same province as in the previous year. The famine was widespread. Disasters hunger were strengthened brutal prolonged frosts that have spread to the Ukraine, New Russia, North Caucasus, Western Europe. In Kharkov province was the coldest winter in 40-s. of XIX century.

Summer and autumn were dry, not only in the Stavropol region, but also in almost all European Russia. Many tens of thousand acres of crops were destroyed by hail, locusts, worms, grasshoppers, early frosts (July 10) and "extreme storms." Storm raged and autumn. In Voronezh evening of November 8 gust hurricane rip almost all roofs. Damaged or demolished many wooden buildings. A few days earlier stormed a "terrible storm, the like of which does not remember the old-timers."

Finally the break came. In 1842 was built the best crop of rye in the past ten years. Although Novorossiysk, Stavropol affected by continuous rains and summer floods, it has not significantly affected the total grain yield in European Russia.

40-s of XIX century were highlighted unusually with devastating hail. So, in 1843, according to incomplete data, noted 326 hailings, which destroyed 209,835 tithes of crops. Particularly devastating hail was "a fateful day in May 27, 1843" when "hail eruption prostrated" from the Baltic to the Black Sea, on the Neman and the Dniester River to the Volga. Hail captured on this one 15, on the other - 17 provinces. Hail accompanied by violent storms, devastation of fields and gardens, the loss of life. Dimensions hailstones sometimes reach an egg. In July, heavy hail continued throughout the European part of Russia. In some provinces hail occurred in August and September. 1843 in Stavropol Territory and Georgia raging blizzard that produced "in various places such devastation. how rarely examples in the northernmost edges of Russia. "

In the early spring of 1844 there was unusually warm weather, which in May was replaced by the cold and rain. They continued in the summer in St. Petersburg, Arkhangelsk, Olonetsk, Novgorod, Tver, Pskov, Vitebsk provinces and in the Baltic States. Particularly affected, Vitebsk province. Rivers and lakes overflowed. On the roads it was difficult to drive. "The bread came to the earth, and in some places completely knocked out." "Garden vegetables from the strong sinking almost destroyed. Unhappy cattle from daily sputum and cold... In short, such a misfortune oldest people forgetting half of them can be "(Journal of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, 1844, part. 7, p. 441). Residents of the western provinces collected bread, driving around in boats on the arable land covered with water. Grass mowed hay and rot in the fields and "covered with blight." From May to September, it was noted 215 hailings, which destroyed not only shoots, crops, but even the straw on the square loaves 181,035 tithes, damaging about 2 million rubles.

While in the north of continuous heavy rains killed vegetation in the southern provinces of the crops suffered from drought and cold weather (August 8, in the province of Kiev snow fell deep in half a yard). Famine, especially severe in the western, north-western and northern provinces, where the Medical Department registered epidemic "evil cramps." Added to this was a strong epizootic - the plague of cattle. Thus, in the provinces of Pskov and Vitebsk sometimes not even half of the horses and cows. Autumn in the north was cold. Started unusually early winter in the south. According to local authorities, "mad, never frozen rivers of the Caucasus covered with ice." No less severe was the winter in the mountains, pastures in the valleys covered with snow. The western part of the Caspian Sea was "completely covered with a thick layer of ice."

Winter 1844/45 year was brutal, not only in the North Caucasus, but also in the whole of Russia. From unprecedented frosts suffered and almost all of Western Europe. January 25, 1845. began an unusual storm from the north-west to south-east in the area from the origins of the Western and Southern Bug to Crimea, "900 miles too long and about 200 miles in diameter." She raged, "with disastrous consequences for the people" in Podolsk, Volyn and Kyiv provinces. Snow cover in Podolsk reached 2 meters in some places.

In 1848, a cholera epidemic has taken off 668,012 lives (five times more than in 1847). Total hurt in 1848 was 1,648,849 people.

In 1849, in the south of Russia there was marked an epidemic of scurvy, which ached 260,444 people. Of these, 67 958 people died.

In early spring of 1850 the locusts appeared in the fields "from the shores of the Caspian Sea in the south-east of the Prut River in the south-west and to the north of the Seim", as well as in the Caucasus. Special devastation caused pests in the Crimea. Locusts "everywhere devoured down not only bread and oats, but all greens ... Malware insect begins to gnaw and vineyards: a similar disaster in the Crimea nobody will remember." To the north the Locust penetrated up to two counties of Kursk province. Also, the bread was harmed by grasshoppers, gophers, bugs, "black fly" and mice. In particular, in the province of Poltava residents of some counties' lost almost all of spring bread and a large part of winter and grass. " Crude fall observed in Kovno province. "In the rare house was sick with fever or fever." Terrible blizzard in Kaluga, Kursk and Tula provinces lasted for 27-29 November. It killed more than 1,200 people.

Only historical sources for the first half of the XIX century noted 35 droughts, 25 times torrential rains harmed crops and grasses, 23 returns of cold weather in late spring - early summer and 21 early frost not only at the end, and sometimes in the middle of summer. For half a century, Russia and Western Europe experienced 31 cold, 8 moderate and 11 mild winters. Only during 1841-1850 years Hail, storms and downpours of more than 3.5 thousand times devastated fields.

Almost every year the epidemic raged. Only from cholera in the early 30's - late 40's. killing more than 300 thousand. persons. From 50 years 46 were hungry, with about a third of them were common, entailed the loss of life and had serious consequences for the Russian economy. Particularly severe "hunger strike" experienced Belarus, the Baltic, the north-western and northern provinces, where sometimes took bread crop failure chronic. Often suffered from natural disasters population of Ukraine, the Volga region, the South Caucasus. A series of severe famine years took place in the countries of Western Europe. [6]

General expectation of the end of the world [5]

Margaret Fuller (Ossoli) once expressed the following opinion: "The brightest feature of this period was the fact that the excitation covered all sectors of society" [Clara E. Sears. "Crazy Days", 1924]. Another observation of the time said: "It seems that there comes a time when strange signs appear in the heavens with such frequency that it becomes uncomfortable" [ibid.]

An article in the "Connecticut Observer" on November 25, 1833 states: "We believe that the rain of fire that we observed on Wednesday morning last week is a terrible thing, it's undoubtedly a forerunner, a merciful sign of the great and dreadful day, which is to be the inhabitants of the earth when will be charged the Sixth Seal. Time referred to not only in the New, but also in the Old Testament, is almost here. "

The period from 1830 to 1850 was a time of strange and disturbing events. People with surprise and dismay looked at a huge circle of light around the sun - the halo. They gazed with awe at the night sky, where the darkness rushed giant comet with a fiery tail. Some said that this comet is aimed at humanity and is the end of the world.

In addition, in 1843, in 1844 more often than any other attracted the attention of the mystics of the world. Called the date of the coming catastrophe of universal scale in the period from 1843 to 1845: Wolfe in Asia, Edward Irving in England, Mason in Scotland, Davis in South Carolina, William Miller in Pennsylvania, Leonard Kelber in Germany and many other famous and not-so people in different parts of the world. They failed to agree on the exact date, and each of them interpreted the prophecy on his own. Nevertheless, that's what is said about them: ".. .In America, Europe and Asia was made ​​much confident and unambiguous statement that the prophets of humanity allotted time runs out in 1843 or 1844"

Foreman in his book "History of prophecy" writes: "Reasons for religious activity met while at every turn, and they were distributed throughout"

W.A. Spicer in his book "Modernity in the light of prophecy" remarked: "Throughout Scripture researchers come to the conclusion that the period of two thousand three hundred years, humanity tempered by the prophet Daniel (8:14), comes to an end, as described in Chapter 9 Daniel, and look to 1844, as at the time of the Last Judgement ..... In Europe - Holland, Germany, Russia and the Scandinavian countries - there were witnesses of God. Joseph Wolff, a missionary from the Levant, preached the approach of Yom Kippur in Greece, Palestine, Turkey, Afghanistan and other countries ". [7]

Bickersteth in his book "A Practical Guide to Bible prophecy" writes: "The newspapers published another letter from Tangier, dated June 20, 1844, which said at the mention of the troubles that have befallen the kingdom of Morocco:" It seems that the Moors (Muslims) always had a bad feeling about this (1844) year. Long before its occurrence, they called each other to beware of the year 1260 (1844 according to the Christian calendar). '"

Naturally, in time of public expectations "end of time" there was the idea of an impending second coming of Christ. Here is one of the evidences of that time: "A certain baptized Jew from Palestine, Josef Wolf, predicted that the coming of Christ will happen in 1847. Harriet Livermore, well known at the time for his eloquence and appeal, and Whittier described in the book "Caught in the snow," everywhere, even in the United States House of Representatives, spoke with sermons on the second coming, collecting every time the crowd of listeners. Lady Hester Stanhope, niece of William Pitt, abandoned the high life in London and settled in Lebanon among the Arabs and Druze, to be closer, she thought, to the place of Advent. "

Judas Alcalay in his research on the history of Zionism in XIX century believed that the 1840s are the time of arrival of the Messiah. E.H. Silver in his book "The Messianic hypothesis in Israel" writes: " The year 1840 was a year of many accepting the coming of the Messiah and the beginning of redemption . " Simon ben Zimah Durand (1361-1444), author of "Commentaries on the Book of Job" believe that the year of the coming of the Messiah is 1850.

In 1831, preach about the second coming were made by William Miller - the future founder of Adventism. He said that nothing can help it, that some voice doesn't give him any rest, saying, " Go and Tell it to the world . " In 1832, he wrote: " The evidence for this comes from everywhere ... That salvation cometh! "

Before the 1844 Anglican priest Morant Brock made ​​a statement: " Not only in the UK await the imminent return of the Savior and raises her voice, warning about this, but in America, in India and in continental Europe. In America, about three hundred priests preach the gospel of the kingdom, and in England about seven hundred . "

Among a variety of other evidences, it is necessary to note the following fact: " The Book of Zohar, composed in 1290 a collection of medieval texts Kabbalism, calls 5600 year of Era of Moses (corresponding to 1839) the year when they open the gates of wisdom ". [5]

It seems the gates were really opened, but only those gates, about which the Savior said to Peter, " ... you - Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it "(Mat.16: 18).

Flash of popularity of spiritualism

Spirituality is the evocation of the dead. It should be noted that in that largely a tragic time for Russia and Europe, when millions were starving, when epidemic was raging, when terrifying signs were, the craze for spiritualism begins in "high society". And there is plenty of evidence, which is reflected by including in the modern literature as one of the signs of age.

According to Y. Vorobyevsky [8] " Spirits, of course, were called before. But this complicated procedure was the prerogative of the magicians of the highest qualification. Then suddenly it became a mass phenomenon. Necromancy, divination on the corpses began to deal by the millions . "

Violation of the prohibition to communicate with the astrologers, wise men, "calling the dead "(Lev.19: 31, 20: 6 Vtor.18: 11), which acquired a mass character, can be likened to an epidemic. Unfortunately, we can't make any statistical increase, we can only rely on the testimony of contemporaries of that time. Nevertheless, this fact is widely known, and adds one more gloomy touch to the overall picture of the mystical fracture forties of the XIX century.

Babis and Baha is

In May 23, 1844 a young Persian merchant, Sayyid Ali Muhammad (1815-1849), who later assumed the name "Bab", begins preaching in the Middle East. Knowing the mood of those years, it is easy to understand that he could count on a complete success. Presumably, the Siyyid-Bab was familiar with the mystical teachings of the Jews, because, as mentioned above, the Kabbalists in 1839 (5600 year era of Moses) expected opening of certain "gates of wisdom." Perhaps that's why he took such a name ("Bab" in Arabic means "gate").

The general background of the excitement the activity of this young man could not remain unnoticed. The result was a sect, which is called the Babis (see. Britannica). Bab called himself as God, which now belonged to all that drops his gaze. After his premature death (executed in 1849 in Tabriz), one of the followers - Mirza Husayn Ali Nuri (1817-1892), despite the opposition of fellow, took over as the "promised to all peoples", which actually declared himself, taking the alias of Baha'u'llah ("the glory of God "), dropping the level of Baba to his own " Baptist ".

Babis-Bahais quite well positioned among the other groups of this nature, greatly fostered literary activities Hussein-Baha'u'llah. He wrote "a book of laws" (Kitab-i-Aqdas), which regulates the life of Bahais.

I must say that many of the decrees of the "divine Baba" had to be soften, or given them different interpretations. For example, in the book of the laws of the Bab (Bayan), for example, stated that " all unique in its own way things had to be presented to him. Bab explained that because Epiphany stands above all comparison, not having any of their own kind thing rightfully belongs to him, unless he decides otherwise . "

Bab forbade his followers to ask "their majesty" questions except in writing and in the " respect of only those items that are worthy of his high position . " See Selections from the Writings of the Bab. [9]

Generally, the Bab introduced into his sect very strict rules. For example, a system of penalties, mandatory payments, deductions from income, regular giving of charity and others. Thus, in the Bayan there was the point, relaxed with the"law of Bahá'u'lláh", " fine ... for anyone who felt terrible neighbor in sorrow . " And if, for example, some religious sects and organizations adopted the "tithe" (10% of revenues), the amount of mandatory contributions to this sect was 19%. This is due to the special affection of the Babi-Baha'i among 19 Babi-Baha'i year consists of 19 months, the last month - from 19 days, with the insertion of the missing days in one month. New Year begins from March 21. The beginning of a "new era" Babis Baha'i believed to be in 1844.

Such attention to the arising of the sect in the middle of the XIX century should be explained. First of all, the very time of appearance of the self-styled mission, as we already know, was full of mystical moods, and it brought him a lot of followers. Today Babis Baha'i call themselves not only as the new world religion. And indeed, the sect is growing, spreading its activities on all continents. However, as they appeared at about the same time, the movement of Adventists, and coming out of the Adventist sect "Jehovah's Witnesses." All this is the brainchild of the troubled 40s of the XIX century.

Of course, Sayyid Ali Muhammad (the Bab) and Mirza Husayn Ali Nuri (Baha'u'llah) are ordinary impostors to play well in a general expectation of the end of light and the coming of the Messiah. Did the organizers of the new sect of secret long-term plans - is unknown, but the purpose of this religious organization today is not the salvation of souls, and the "new world order" and the creation of conditions for the accession of a single world ruler.

" Elect a common language .., please ... common script "- Bahá'u'lláh commands to his followers! In its law provides two stages of the process. In the first step should be selected or one of the existing languages, or an artificial language, which must be taught in all schools in the world, in addition to their native language. Governments of the world should be called through their legislatures to enact this important provision. In the second stage, in the distant future, to be held the final adoption of a single language and common script for all the inhabitants of the earth. Features of the "new world order" identified in the writings of Bahá'u'lláh and his henchmen later. Today, the development of plans for "global" is engaged in a governing body called the Universal House of Justice. That's what they say in its decisions: " The Institute of Contemporary Baha'i Administrative Order constituting the structural basis of the World Order of Bahá'u'lláh, in the future will gain maturity and gradually develop into a Baha'i World Commonwealth. In this regard, Shoghi Effendi [Hussein following the legislator] indicates that the Administrative Order, as its component parts, and within its framework institutions will function effectively and in full force and effect, be established in their rights and demonstrate its capacity to serve not only the kernel, but also true model of the New World Order, which in due time will inevitably embrace all mankind".

Ask ordinary Bahai about goals, and you'll hear about humanism, equality and fraternity, and it's unlikely that someone from deceived will be able explain what an inconspicuous point of the doctrine of the "new world order of the Bahai" really means labeled as " mystery of the Great Reversal in Sign of Lord . "

Interestingly, the main shrine of the Babi - Bahai is the mausoleum of Baba (instead of Bahá'u'lláh), located in Haifa (Israel), where they worship some gates, bowing their heads to the symbolic threshold.

Activation of the secret forces

Masons - blind army of Satan

To talk about the secret is always difficult, because there is not enough information. However, no mention of the picture of secret societies won't be complete. What do we mean by secret societies? Various religious organizations, often anti-Christian - as followers of the initial levels can't even guess. In very general terms we will outline the one, but it must be the most well-known organization- Freemasonry.

The history of the emergence of this organization is not known for certain. There are several legends that we will not recount here.

The structure of this multi-level, which was built in such a way as to lower many participants did not know the parent. However, such secrecy is necessary to them not only for the conspiracy, but also in order to conceal from the rank and file the true goals of the organization. So, at the dedication of a higher rank (degree) of the party to reveal secrets. However, from a true understanding of it is still far away. The next increase is slightly opened another part of the true goals of the organization. And so long as adept with surprise not find that is an organization that has the features of the godless frankly, the Antichrist.

Naturally, to the lower numerous followers no one like never tell. Indeed, the use of blind and obedient force is more profitable and easier. This is what Albert Pike wrote (1809 - 1891) - Freemason of a high-level of initiation - in his book "Morals and Dogma of Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of free Masonic":

" Blue degrees of Masonry (the first, second and third degree) are just a farmstead or, finally, the portico of the Temple. Initiated there reported some of the symbols, but he purposely straying from the true path of their false interpretation. From it are not waiting for their understanding: it is only required that he imagined that they understand. True their interpretation is known only Princes of Masonry (28th degree and above) .... The totality of the royal and sacred knowledge was hidden so carefully centuries ago, that now it is almost impossible to guess some of the mysteries. Enough for the masses of those who called Masons, to think that all of the content in the "blue" degrees. Anyone who would try to bring them out of deception, would have worked in vain and fruitless, would violate their duties as adept. Freemasonry true Sphinx, buried to the head in the sand, huddled around him for ages! "

It is interesting that adherents of "blue degrees", even after such a frank confession, tend to disagree with this. Here is a quote from the book of J. Robinson'a "Pilgrim trail. Way of one person to the Masonic Temple "[10]about this statement of Pike:" I have questioned on this point enough Masons to make sure that no one agrees with Pike in this matter . " That is, it becomes clear that any information that is not consistent with the views of the cheat, will not be accepted.

The compilers have no intention to carry out a study of Freemasonry in this section, but show some signs of the Antichrist is a must. The symbolism of the many rites and Masonic ceremonies represented the construction of Solomon's Temple, which was destroyed in the year 70 by the Roman armies. As we know, in the third, built the Temple of the Antichrist will sit. "Freemasons" is symbolic for the builders of Solomon's Temple of the Antichrist.

Some are deceived by outward signs, believing that Freemasonry is Judaism. Thus, in 1866, Rabbi Isaac Wise wrote: " Freemasonry is Jewish institution whose history, degrees, titles, slogans and laws from the beginning to the end are Jewish . " With this it's really easy to accept. So one of the highest initiates in the Masonic hierarchy is called "Knight Kadosh." "Kadosh" in Hebrew means "holy". This "degree" refers to the degree of revenge. It is believed that revenge is subject to Hiram (Adoniram) - master, who was killed, according to Masonic legend, with the connivance of the jealous King Solomon. On this symbolic power construction blade replaced during rituals deadly - for kings and priests - a dagger. It is worth recalling that the legend of Hiram (Adoniram) promises that his heirs will break the power of the kings of the earth, representing the "tyranny" of God. [11]

Legend of Hiram (Adoniram) (see. Later in this chapter) came out of the Masonic sources. Sergei Nilus calls one of them: "Les stctes et societes politigieses" -Comte Le Couteuix de Canteleu. This legend was retold by famous Mason Rudolph Steiner. Nilus says: ".. . well-known historian and an outdoor mason Louis Blank in his history of the French Revolutio says that this legend is based on a sacred foundation of all Masonry ".

Many Masonic initiatory rites have their base in the legend of Hiram (Adoniram). A play on the two main plot. The first story - it is the construction of "Freemasons" Solomon's Temple (attributes: a hammer, square, trowel, etc.). The second plot reproduces some traveling, including through the fire. This journey after Adoniram a blazing inferno. This meaning is revealed not for everybodyl. Most Masons have no idea that the "Great Architect of the Universe", whom they worship, is the same horned creature that in Masonic and Kabbalistic tradition (treatise "Sefer ha-Likutei"), considered the "father of Cain."

Masons call themselves as "children of the widow," implying that they are "countless offspring" of Adoniram. When ordained to 14 degrees, they shout in Hebrew: " Yud, Yud, Adoniram! "(Glory, glory, Adoniram).

Masonic legend ends with murder of Hiram (Adoniram). Decomposed body of "high master" is symbolized by bones that each bed occupied a place of honor. In this coffin and often put the initiate. From the tomb, according to General Erich Ludendorff, newly Mason gets artificial Jew.

It's relative to the outer side, and these are the words of the same frank Pike " Lucifer is the light bearer! Strange and mysterious name of the Spirit of Darkness! Lucifer, Son of the Morning! It was he who bears the Light, and the Light of this intolerable blinds weak, sensual and narcissistic soul ! "

We can't know for certain, is that the secret of the higher degrees of Masonry, and not whether they serve Lucifer openly. But exactly what they seek to reconstruct the Temple of Solomon, in which the Antichrist is coming, and in this sense they serve Satan, directly or indirectly, consciously or unconsciously.

In this sense revelations of all the same Albert Pike are interesting, who in August 1871 talks about the three world wars necessary to establish a new world order ".. it need to be three world wars; a third of them will destroy the Muslim world, and then we shall provoke a huge social upheaval, which will show all the horrors of the fatal unbelief. Revolutionary minority will be destroyed, and disappointed in Christianity ... most of us will receive the true light of the teachings of Lucifer. .. "[12]

Freemasonry in Russia

How and when this movement appeared in Russia not known for certain. Some sources indicate that in the seventies of the XVIII century in the walls of the Moscow University has taught a Professor Schwartz, who became one of the leaders of Russian Freemasonry. In any case, the forties of the XIX century in St. Petersburg and Moscow Masons settled down thoroughly. This, in particular, can be seen from the words of the Russian Orthodox nobleman N.A. Motovilov who didn't want to go to deal with his conscience. Here is what she writes about his misadventures:

" I left out of the Imperial Kazan University - Motovilov writes - valid student in July 8, 1826 and on the way to Kiev pilgrimage deprived of her that conceived me on the 20th day of the same in July 1826, and was left an orphan at the age of 17, having a sister Proskovya, fifteen years, through a friend of my mother, Nadezhda Savrasova I've soon became acquainted with the Simbirsk marshal, Prince Mikhail Petrovich Barataev, and soon became friends with him before he revealed to me that he is grandmaster of Simbirsk lodge and Grandmaster of the Illuminati Petersburg lodge. He invited me to join the number of Masons, saying that if I want any success have in the public service, then, without being a Freemason, I can 't achieve that by no means. I replied that my father, my parent, forbade me to join Freemasonry, then, that this is the true anti-Christianity, and I myself, being at university and having found a book about the Masons, in this completely satisfied and even saw the extraordinary vision and predicted the fate of the entire my life, and declared that I go against Freemasonry, Illuminism, Jacobinism, Karbonism and everything having with them the identity and opposition to the Lord God existing. This so angered him, and even more so with a sincere heart open to him the intention to go to St. Petersburg for the determination to serve in His Imperial Majesty's Office that he swore to me that I never and in no way will be successful because of the Masonic networks ties entangled not only Russia but the whole world ... "[13]

Threats of Prince Barataev to Motovilov, due to the failure to join the Masonic lodge, were not empty. The opened position of honorary ranger Korsun district school Motovilov his nominee soon was exhibited and, when he was given to know from the Council and from the University of Kazan Teacher Committee, he was elected to this position, Barataev summoned him and announced: " You wont see this office, as your ears. And not only you will not get the post, but won't get to any other public office, for Musin-Pushkin (then a trustee of the Kazan school district) and Minister Prince Lieven are Masons subordinate to me. My order is the law! "

From this moment the Motovilov persecution began, which eventually brought him to such a breakdown, what he contracted a nervous shock, confined him to bed. In the great suffering he was more than three years. He was persecuted in the service, which he, however, still won thanks to his supernatural power. They prevented his marriage, created a reputation of a madman, and even " in time of governor Zagryazhskiy managed to expose personal arrest on charges of treason . " From that arrest he was released only by order of the Minister of Justice Dmitry Vasilyevich Dashkov.

You can imagine how deeply society was affected. Members of a secret organization became statesmen, until ministers. And what can we say about the simple careerists, which at all times and there was plenty willing to start at least in the Masons, at least in the game, just to move up the career ladder.

Rebellious mood in Europe and Russia

September 9, 1867 in Geneva, the Congress of the League of Peace and Freedom was organised. Dostoevsky visited Congress being at this time in Geneva. In letters to Maykov and Ivanova he describes what was happening: " It's been four days of shouting and obscenities. Started with suggestions that we don't need large monarchies, then don't need faith. And that is what these socialists and revolutionaries lied from the podium in front of 5,000 students - inexpressible. And this kind of rubbish does care unhappy work people? Started with the fact that in order to achieve peace in the world it needs to destroy the Christian faith . "

At this time, Sergei Nechayev founded a secret of "society folk violence," and urged to kill all opposing the revolution or just support the state system. Nechayev emperor promised a painful punishment in the ruins of the state.

Around the same time, the revolutionaries Nikolai Ishutin and Ivan Hudyakov create a secret society like Nechayev. And give him a frank name - "Hell". Member of this society was Dmitri Karakozov assassinated Alexander II - the king who freed the peasants from serfdom.

Acts of terrorism as a means of political struggle were first practiced in Russia since the mid 60s of the XIX century, when in 1866 D.Karakozov attempted to kill Alexander II. The most well-known terrorists were A.Zhelyabov, S.Perovskaya, S.Halturin, S.Kravchinsky, G.Goldenberg. March 1, 1881 I.I.Grinevskiy managed to kill Alexander II. March 1, 1887 was an attempt on Alexander III. Among the organizers of the assassination attempt on the king's life was A. Ulyanov (Lenin's elder brother).

The situation in Russia was merely an echo of what is happening around the world, primarily in Europe. World series of revolutions swept. January 12, 1848 a popular uprising in Sicily, February 24, 1848 - Revolution in France. Although most were quickly suppressed the revolution, they had a significant impact on the future political developments in Europe. Unrest swept France, Italian (Sardinia, Naples) and German lands, including Austria, which intensified the national movements of the Italians, Hungarians and Croats, Romania. In the "New World" it wasn't too calm.

In America

Since 1840 in America organizational structure of American Masons built under the strong influence "of the Scottish circle" - the English branch, divided into the southern jurisdiction in Arkansas and North of Boston.

"Scottish circle" operates in the middle of the XX century, the continuous attack by racist murders and terror against the colonies and neighboring countries. The most important event in this regard was the American occupation of Mexico during the Mexican War (1846-1848), the revolt of the slave-owners, the American Civil War (1861-1865) and hike the Ku Klux Klan against the revival of the Southern States (1867-1870).

In 1843, the Jewish community has created an independent Order "B'ne Brit" - Zionist secret lodge, belongs to the lodges of Freemasons. "B'ne Brit" means literally "sons of the union." They began to take an active part in the preparation of the "American Revolution." And in 1867, already known A. Pike was sent to America (Nashville), where under his leadership "the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan" were organised "to bring the light of Lucifer" to the American continent.

Fragment of A. Pike's speech in April, July 1889, before the 32th degree of "Scottish circle": " We honor God, but it is a god worshiped without prejudice. Religion of Freemasons is designed primarily to lead us all devoted to higher degrees in purity Luciferian doctrine. If Lucifer was not god, then was it Adonai, whose acts are marked by brutality, misanthropy ... and rejection of science; even slandering him (Lucifer). Yes, Lucifer is a God, and unfortunately Adonay is also a god. The old law says: there is no light without shade, no beauty without ugliness, and no white without black; Absolute can only exist in two gods ... This is why the doctrine of Satanism is heresy. And truly pure, true philosophical religion is the belief in Lucifer, the god of light, stated by Adonai. But Lucifer, the god of light and goodness, is struggling for humanity against Adonay, the god of darkness and cruelty . "

This quote one can find in the main documents in the library of the Scottish Pike Circle in Washington DC, in English or in French.

As a result Freemasonry was strengthened in the United States, and all the supreme power was in their hands. Masonic symbolism has been used, in particular, for the creation of the main print of United States, which shows a truncated pyramid with the eye of Lucifer and with the signature on the top of the Latin Novus Ordo Seclorum (New World Order).

William Miller - founder of Adventism

organizer of the "meeting of Christ" in 1843 -1844

William Miller (1782-1849) was born in Pitsfilde, Massachusetts, USA. He was the eldest of 16 children and had very modest education, consisting of several classes of secondary school. Lack of knowledge Miller compensated diligent reading books. Although the family in which the creator of the motion brought Adventism distinguished deep piety, Miller, as he tells us about himself, went through a long period of doubt, ending on the age of thirty. Since that time, in the course of two years, Miller studied the Bible and came to the conclusion that of men and angels are hidden only the day and hour of the Second Coming, but not the year. Exploring prophetic verses, he was looking for the information that would have pointed to this event. Miller's conclusions were based mainly on the book of Daniel:

" From the further study of the Scriptures .... I have concluded that the 2300 days began with the seventy weeks, with 457 of BC .. 1335 ... and that day, which began from the time that the daily sacrifice and regulations abomination of desolation (Daniel. 12:11), it's necessary to count since the establishment of the papal government, after the elimination of pagan abominations, which I would advise to date, according to the best historians, about 508 BC... If you count all these prophetic periods from a few dates set by the best chroniclers for the events with which, obviously, you should count that all of them will be completed in 1843 ". [14]

Miller even indicated a specific date end of the world and the second coming of Christ: March 21, 1843.

In 1831, Miller made ​​a hot sermon on the proximity of the second coming. Initially, these "revelations" weren't successful. Most of the students, " leaving them unattended, apart from idle chatter ". [14] However, in 1833, Miller became an elder in one of Baptist congregations in New York State. Since then, his sermons begin having a huge success not only in America but also in Europe. Adepts of the new doctrine later became known as Seventh-day Adventists (from the Latin "adventus" - "coming"). In 1839, Miller gained an important supporter - the well-known pastor of the Boston church "Chardon Street Chepl" Joshua Hymes, much more Miller contributed to the fact that it became a national phenomenon of Adventists. It was Himes who began newspaper company in support of the doctrine of Miller. First published in the Boston newspaper "signs of the times" and in the New York magazine "Midnight Cry," the beginning marked of the flow of publications, brochures, books, rushing to all corners of the world.

When predicted 1843 passed, Miller put off a phenomenon till March 21, 1844. It also noted place - a mountain in the state of New York. Superstition of the "prophet" followers, dressed in white robes, in a large number gathered there that day, had unsuccessfully waited performance prediction. And there were many thousands. People sold their property, hoping to soon enter into the kingdom of heaven. Nothing happened.

In summer of 1844 they produced new calculations, according to which the 2300 days and mornings from Daniel 8: 14 must end not in the spring, but in autumn of 1844, when the Jews celebrated the Day of Atonement. New news spread around the world, and entered in the history of Adventism as "Midnight Cry", by analogy with Matthew 25: 6. William Miller, after some hesitation, joined this movement: " I was disappointed twice - he wrote - but, despite the fact that I was surrounded by the enemy, my mind is completely calm and I hope for the coming of Christ as strong as before " .

Specified time has come, but in October 1844 the Second Coming didn't happen. There was a "great disappointment." After this one part of the Adventist moved away from the movement, and the other part began the search for an error in the calculation of Miller. Subsequently, Miller himself acknowledged doctrinal error, which led him to the wrong interpretation of the Bible. After the "Great Disappointment" Miller, as well as many of his students and followers, no longer tried to call the exact timing of the second coming.

"Jehovah's Witnesses" - grasshoppers,

serving to "thief" "from the gloom and darkness."

Meeting prepared by Miller doesn't seem empty and random, although certainly it was needed not to erect hands to the sky, but sprinkle ashes, because, if our assumptions are correct, then the predicted happened:

" And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season. And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison" . (Revelation. 20: 1-7)

When the March 21, 1843 have been named pipes doomsday meeting was moved to March 21, 1844, then on October 22, 1844, and then found another interpreter, who said that the coming of the place, but who appeared so far in the heavenly tabernacle Parser handles his business, and suggested wait 30 years - until 1874. Others made it clear that their business can finish which was the 70 - 100 years, and then it is necessary to wait till 1914. Then it was transferred to the 1932-33, and many more times.

But Adventists are not alone who shouted "Hosanna" to invisible "God", that appeared in the world unseen, " as a thief in the night . " These are the new sect, who call themselves Jehovah's Witnesses. This is an American rather successful financial institution "Biblical and Tract Watchtower Society of New York, Inc." (Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc). The organization was founded in 1884 by Charles Russell (1852 -1916), who took the teachings of Adventism as the Invisible advent of a "God." Russell in his books, speaking of the coming of this invisible " god "often uses the image of Christ's parable, who appeared calling" thief "," who appeared as a thief "incorrectly interpreting verses (Matthew 24: 43 Luk.12: 39), where says only that it is necessary to stay awake and not to sleep. Several times Russell writes about the " thief ", which will come from the" gloom and darkness "of" clouds and gloom ":

" These texts clearly state and illustrate the process of the Lord's coming. They show that he will be present invisible, doing the work of which the world quite a while will not guess. Therefore His arrival should happen quiet way, invisible and completely unknown to the world, the same way as "thief" would came - with no noise and no other attention-grabbing manifestations "

" The last group of statements is as true as the first, and it explicitly teaches the opposite to the quiet, unobtrusive, similar to the thieves the process of the coming and presence of the Lord . "

".. .Our Lord claimed as an indisputable fact, that his kingdom would be established without external visibility, and His coming, His presence will be as a thief, requiring careful, attentive awake to recognize and distinguish it .. "..

" Many recognize the glory and power of the new rulers of the earth, but because of the clouds and darkness surrounding him they didn't recognize the king"

" But, thanks to God, selected were noticed and armed, and will neither be deceived nor disappointed. Although around Him clouds and darkness , they see His presence and are happy that their freedom approaches " [15].

Russell taught at that time that the " thief "was invvisible in 1874. But he doesn't deny the connection with the 1844:

".. .This reached its culmination in 1844, just thirty years before 1874, when (according to the teachings of Jubilees) Christ - Bride and Reaper - really came. In this we find another striking parallel between the hour for centuries. Cause these thirty years exactly correspond to thirty years from the birth of the baby Jesus to the Anointed Messiah - Baptism and represented as the Bridegroom and Reaper at the age of thirty years " [16]

Russell claimed that "a thief "who appeared quietly in 1874 will finish his business in" invisible tabernacle " in 40 years (until 1914), then end must be held.

Today original idea is unfairly "forgotten", and new adherents presented this fact a little different: that by saying this figuratively, metaphorically, meant something else. After all, as is the case with Adventists, they were disappointed.1914 year came, and the prediction didn't come true, end of the world has once again failed. Russell then went on to explain that the war in 1914 was not Armageddon, but will lead to Armageddon, and apologizing, in the preface to a new edition of his book, "The time is near," just moved the deadline to 1918, to which fortunately for himself, and to Unfortunately for followers, didn't live. General management of the organization postponement of doomsday than once: from 1914 to 1918, then to 1925, and even later to 1975 year. And so on.

Russell rightly accuses the papacy in all its many sins. However, starting with Catholicism, Russell brings his hatred for the whole of Christianity as a whole, calling all Christians servants of Satan, and the Church - the Antichrist, although under the Antichrist in the Bible refers to it, " the man of sin "and" son of perdition ", rather than an organization, and the more the Church of Christ. Calling all Christians as followers of Satan , "witnesses" called themselves for some reason as Christians, although Christianity doesn't have any relationship with. For them, the second coming of Christ is not a real person, but merely serves as a figurative expression of some "true church", which should, in their opinion, to become the head of the world. They called themselves " tireless locusts of anointed Christians "[17]," the host of Jehovah's anointed locusts "[18]. And this " locusts ", serving as a" thief "from the" gloom and darkness , "called for the abolition of all governments and religions in order to replace them with a single kind of" world government "[19]. That is, in fact, they declare the same purpose as the Illuminates, Freemasons, Babis Bahai, advocating for a new world order headed by a single world government, paving the way for the reign of the Antichrist.

Satan is released from the hellhole

Miller claimed that his prophesy made ​​by " a voice coming from the sky ". [5]

Doesn't that get a little uncomfortable after all that reading? Comets, earthquakes, disasters, famine and epidemics, and on this background, the ghosts of the abyss manifested secret forces hidden until then in the shade. Some of them are aimed at the overthrow of the monarchy and the eradication of religions, hands defrauded, acting under the banner of liberalism, freedom and brotherhood. Others are working to create a "new world order", organized the assassination of kings, carried out the revolution, pull down the age-old foundations.

Analyzing the history, we can't say that any one person or even any organization, party, sect or other force in the world was in 1843 -1844 and marked the exit from the depths of Satan, which said John the Evangelist. In the form of individual " man of sin "," son of perdition "or Antichrist will be 3.5 years until the end of human history in the end times. In the middle of the XIX century there is a fracture, and the world breaks, everything activates destructive, which can only appear at this point in the historical arena: natural disasters, diseases and epidemics, wars and revolutions, secret societies and religious sects, false prophets and leaders of the revolutionaries. The world began to change rapidly.

Linking it with the prophetic millennium, we can say this: 843 - 1843 is the period which the Book of Revelation says about:

" And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection" (Revelation 20: 4-5)

And since 1844 a period began known as the "little season" when allegorically Satan was set free. Destructive forces activate, as described in these words:

" And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season. And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison" . (Revelation. 20: 1-3,7)

As the millennium reign of the saints with Christ is a period of relatively favorable for the Church of Christ's time in the history of mankind - in comparison with the previous and subsequent years - and the image of the binding of Satan for a thousand years, and after thousands of years out of the abyss to " little season " , there is only an indication of the changes taking place in the world. Changes have an apocalyptic nature. In essence, it's the struggle of Satan to mankind, and especially " to whom who have the testimony of Jesus Christ " never ends. This is shown in the vision of John as persecution of wife by dragon (Revelation's chapter 12). But it was pleased to God to bind Satan for a thousand years, and in the history of the Church of Christ there was a period of relatively peaceful existence. Now we live in a time of increased rebellion and growing chaos, a period which in the prophetic writings of St. John the Divine is called " little season ", and we, of course, are interested in this period, and the question is: Can we find out how long will this" little season " continue?

Sources:

1. "The Bible of Holy Scripture " (3m ) // reprint Savvino Storozhevsky Monastery Design: "Rule of Faith" M ., 1999

2. "The Bible is the book of scripture of the Old and New Testament " canonical in Russian translation with parallel passages , 1991

3. Shimon Dubnov " The recent history of the Jews " http://www.il4u.org.il/history/dubnov/68.html

4. Public History of Astronomy in the XIX century . Translation from English / Clark A .; Lane .: Seraphim VV priv. - Assoc. Imp. , St. Petersburg . University, ie . before . Eng . Astron . Islands . - Odessa : Mathesis, 1913. - 678 c.

5. W. Sears "As a thief . Case of never coming coming " St. Petersburg, Impaks , 1993 p. 351

6. http://randewy.narod.ru/gml/meteo2.html

7. William Ambrose Spicer "Our Day in the Light of Prophecy" Pacific Press, 1917 - p. 380

8. Y.Vorobevsky " A knock at the golden gate " Part 2 (Essay 7)

9. http://bahai-library.com/russian/bha/aqdas

10. J. Robinson " Pilgrim trail . Way of one person to the Masonic Temple , " New York, 1993 http://freemasonry.narod.ru/Publications/PATH.doc

11. Y. Vorobyevsky . Path to the apocalypse : the Omega Point

12. N. Bogolyubov "Secret Society of the XX century " Vra , 1997

13. S. Nilus " Great in the Small" With the publication of Nilus ' "Great in the small " third edition, revised and enlarged 1911 Sergiev Posad .

14. White J. Scetches of the Christian Life and Public Labors of William Miller. Battle Creek , 1875 page 55-57 // on http://www.synergia.itn.ru/iegova/issl/evm/3.htm

15. Charles Russell Volume 2, Chapter 5, " The process of return of our Lord "

16. Charles Russell Volume 2, Chapter 7, " Parallel era"

17. " The Watchtower", 1998 January 15 , p. 28

18. " The Watchtower", 1998, May 1, p. 9-10

19. " The Watchtower", 2005, June 1, p. 3-7

 

-------

Legend of Hiram - Adoniram .

  " No mortal knows neither patronymic, nor gender, nor the tribe of mysteriously gloomy personality of Adoniram whose genius is so much higher of people of the land , as far as the top of the highest mountain towers over the small stone showered with dust of its foot . This superhuman person breathe with the deepest contempt for the human race and this contempt is legal: who as a foreigner lives among Adam's children doesn't belong to the human race.

And deep in the glare of the fire blazing Adoniram sees an image of a man, but the greatness of his is immensely superior to any mortal. It approached this to him and said to him a word :

- Come here, my son , come without fear ! I blew on you, and the flame has no power to interrupt your breathing.

And in deadly to children of Adam element, enveloped in flames , Adoniram found untested , unheard bliss , fond of him in the depths of the fire.

- Where do you following me? - Adoniram asks who appeared .

- To the center of the earth, in the soul of the world , to country of Cain rule , which is closely and inseparably freedom reigns . There is the ultimate of Adonai tyranny , of jealous God ; there , laughing at his impotent rage , we can freely and openly eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge . There is the reign of your fathers .

- But who am I? And who are you ? - Adoniram asks .

- I am the father of your fathers , I am the son of Lamech , grandson of Cain , I am Tubal-Cain ....

And in she sanctuary of fire kingdom Adoniram brought face to face with the head of his great race. Lucifer , who gave life to Cain , on the face of his son reflected luster of all its ineffable beauty and infinite majesty ...

- Give ear to me, O my son ! There will be a son from you, who you won't see , and he will make of thee a countless offspring. And your race will be far above Adam's on, but this breed win under its feet thy kindred . And many centuries noble clan of yours will give all its courage , all the entire genius to the thankless and senseless breed of Adam. But the day will come , and the best will become strongest , and they will restore faith of the Lord of Fire. Your children, united under thy name, will smash , as weaker vessel , the power of kings of the earth, for they are the representatives of the tyranny of Adonai ... "

 

Chapter V

"Little season" and animal images

".... till the thousand years should be fulfilled:

and after that he must be loosed a little season."

(Revelation. 20: 3)

Beasts of Daniel's prophecy

Thus, we hypothesized that the millennial reign of the saints with Christ a thousand years, and the binding of Satan can't be shaped, and the specific historical millennium. Especially in human history, we seem to be possible to distinguish this period. At 843, the frame completes the formation of dogmatic Christianity, which providentially isn'ted in the history of the holiday, "Triumph of Orthodoxy." And then follows the millennium of Christianity throughout the world. Of course, as the binding of Satan wasn't literal, just not a literal kingdom of God on earth, and this millennium. It's just a thousand-year period of relatively favorable existence of the Church of Christ, its spread across the land, the title reign of the saints with Christ.

The end of thousand-year period falls in the middle of the XIX century, and it is marked by many events: natural wonders, revolutions, a general expectation of the end of the world, and, as a consequence, the activation of different preachers, the emergence of sects and new religious movements: Adventists, Jehovah's Witnesses, Baha'is, Babis . This could be and we add a splash of scientific and technological discoveries that resulted in a radical transformation of the world. Good or bad - it doesn't matter. It's a fact that around the middle of XIX century, the world began to change rapidly.

And we put forward the hypothesis that the spike occurred the events that resulted in a change in the world, as well as strengthening the godless activity was shown to John the Revelator as the image output on Satan's "little season." This metaphor is easy to understand, since the changes started in the end will lead humanity to a close, the end of this, our familiar world.

Let's try to determine if it would be possible, the duration of the "little season." Let's not be deceived his prophetic name. "Little season" might not be too small if measured in human terms. Let's not forget that for God and a thousand years as one day (2Pet.3 8)

The first beast of Daniel's prophecy

Let's return to disassemble earlier prophecy in the book of Daniel, where were shown four mysterious kingdoms, the meaning of which turned out to be not clear to Daniel - that's why he needed explanation of Angel.

" I Daniel was grieved in my spirit in the midst of my body, and the visions of my head troubled me. I came near unto one of them that stood by, and asked him the truth of all this. So he told me, and made me know the interpretation of the things... "(Daniel 7: 15-16)

Let's briefly recall some four beasts were shown to Daniel

".. And four great beasts came up from the sea, diverse one from another.

The first was like a lion, and had eagle's wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man's heart was given to it.

And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh.

After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it.

After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns." (Daniel 7: 3-7)

It is imperative that the four beasts in the aggregate, combined in one account for the beast that appears in the Apocalypse. Here is how it Archpriest Sergei Bulgakov writes, "the beast of Revelation correspond to the four great beasts don't like one another. The first of them "like a lion", the second - "like a bear", the third "like a leopard", the fourth beast was dreadful and terrible, who "was different from all the beasts" (Dan. VII, 4-7). In John Feral these images focus on one thing: "the beast which I saw was like a leopard, but had feet like a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion and the dragon gave him his power" (XIII, 2). This difference doesn't alter the substance of the matter, which is the beast that embodies the fullness of Feral with its various aspects and manifestations. The Beast of Revelation has seven heads (At Daniel's the same number obtained from the addition of the two heads of the first beast with four heads of the third and the fourth head, Dan. VII, 6-8) ". [3]

This once again confirms our assumption that these four beasts preimage four outbreaks godless activity should occur in the New Testament period. And, moreover, make it clear that shown in the Apocalypse beast out of the sea doesn't mean the Antichrist, as some commentators think, but godless forces in general.

The first beast of Daniel's conduct, as we have seen previously, the prototype of the Roman Empire.

The second beast of Daniel's prophecy

Let's try to find a period in the history of the godless activity similar persecution of the Christians of the Roman Empire, or the second beast of Daniel's prophecy, likening bear.

After the collapse of the Roman Empire in 395 AD, when Theodosius last year became the sole ruler of the Roman Empire (or 476 years old when he died Julia Nepos - the last person who held the title of Emperor of the West), before the thousand-year period "binding of Satan" and "reign saints with Christ, "-that is up to 843 years - we don't see a splash godless activity comparable to theomachy times of pagan Rome.

If since the collapse of the Roman Empire, until the ninth century - the beginning of the "thousand-year reign of the saints with Christ," or, in other words, the most favorable time for the Church of Christ, we don't find the flash of rebellion, as shown in the image of Daniel Bear, it's just not worth it to seek until the middle of the XIX century, or until the end of the millennial period. But since the middle of the XIX century, and it was after 1843, activation begins of godless powers, and we assume that it is from this time we should talk about "exit Satan for a little while." And therefore it is logical to look for traces of the second beast after this year, closer to our time.

It is regrettable to say this about my beloved homeland, but apparently the second beast of Daniel's conduct was the prototype activation godless forces on the territory of Russia in the first half of the XX century.

" And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh!'" (Daniel 7: 5)

We shouldn't demonize our history, which is fraught with grave consequences for the present and the future of Russia, but the fact remains, God-fighting terror swept across Russia. And the "bear", "ate a lot of meat." Many famous sons of the fatherland disappeared at the beginning of the revolutionary upheavals.

Danger of destruction of Russia with the aid of Desovietization

Visions like Daniel and John the Divine don't give us more information about the "bear" and the duration of this period. In the prophecies show only that the godless forces of four times in the New Testament story as much as possible on the rise. The first time it happens in the Roman Empire, the second time, as we assume, on the territory of Russia in the beginning of XX century. And if the first period was very long and ended apparently with the collapse of the Roman Empire, the second could be much more concise. Russia as an Orthodox state, by God's permission has experienced only a short time, but not less atrocities godless forces. This, thank God, not over the collapse of Russia, and we hope to Russia as the Third Rome, stay till the end of time. Because our goal is to learn and try to understand what or why God allowed it. But we can't declare any part of the history of Russia as "black hole" that requires desovietization or something like that, as this process will be used to destroy the destructive forces of Russia.

If we don't want, then we have to learn to separate the activity from the godless aspirations of the masses, who supported the Bolsheviks at the time and created a socialist state, which had for all its faults many positive sides. And, perhaps, the only way our country can survive in the XX century. Having made ​​an unprecedented industrial spurt, maximum effort, from an agrarian country, Russia was transformed into a state with a powerful industry and modern weapons. Maybe only as a result of this transformation Russia was able to defeat fascism, and remain on the historical map of the world. As the reforms of Peter I, destroying patriarchal attitudes, helped create the modern navy, the army and the iron and steel industry, and as a result, helped Russia to survive in a changing world, so, perhaps, reform the Bolsheviks helped keep Russia at this time. We must learn to separete theomachism of different forces and aspirations of the masses of Russia, even though they are often very tightly interwoven.

For Christians of modern times, like anyone, it is important to learn to hear the words of Christ for the forgiveness of his enemies. Especially because the enemies in the civil war were our own brothers. In fact, as long as we do not forgive each other, the civil war isn't over.

We remember and honor the sacrifices of the martyrs, but their share of the executioners and the ideological construction of the first socialist state in the world - the Russian people, the people who defeated fascism and built the USSR. We who live here - in Russia - Orthodox Christians, it is impossible to think differently if we don't want the Third Rome disappearance from the world map. And Orthodox Christians scattered throughout the world as a result of bloody deeds of the godless forces need to find the strength to end the civil war in their hearts and minds, and try to play one of the most difficult Christian precepts. Otherwise, we risk losing Russia.

We believe that reconciliation with the historical past is possible, if not to declare communism absolute filth and communist choice of the Russian people a tragic mistake, but if we hear in socialism hidden prophecy, in the words of Archpriest Sergius Bulgakov in his article "Christianity and Socialism," written in 1917 year.

"So, in relation to socialism to Christianity should remain the governing appeals Apostle, the first of which states:" Do not quench the Spirit, "for socialism threatens the extinction of the great spirit, but it is joined immediately and the second call:" Do not despise prophecies. " We must hear the "prophecy" and socialism, and not despise his misunderstanding or prejudice. Prophecy in socialism is dull and dark, but ineradicable premonition that "the image of this world passeth away," his bark is melted and the waters of the universe "God's face reflected back." Blind and deaf that prophecy in socialism as compared to how it is given in the Christian promise of a new earth and a new heaven, the same is true in their lives ... But it was in the era when blanched and temporarily blunted in Christianity these misgivings, in socialism they had known the life force "[4]

We should realize that the Russian people who supported the idea of communism at the time of a total collapse of all the ideas and the failure of the old regime from government, motivated by the desire for the good of all, that is, in fact, the desire to implement the principles of Christian love of neighbor. But the communist idea was flawed, as was based on a materialistic and atheistic basis. Hence went all distortions and theomachism.

And you can even offer fabulous in its boldness idea of synthesis of communist ideology with Orthodox world, which would be an error correction materialistic communism and forwards, instead of the civil war and return to the West, is rapidly losing the human form of capitalism.

In the prophecy of Daniel we saw four beasts, but in the New Testament stories only two of the four described outbreaks of rebellion took place. Expected two similar activation time which has not yet come. The time and nature of the third, we do not know anything. But in the fourth question, oddly enough, much more clarity. All commentators agree that it is the most brutal and total, but only lasts 3.5 years (Daniel 7: 25 Daniel 12: 7 Rev. 12: 14) or 42 months (Revelation 13: 5 Rev 11 2) or 1260 days (Revelation 12: 6), and will happen before the end of the world, with the arrival of the Antichrist.

Interpretation of the beasts of the Apocalypse

Disassemble the "little season" on the one hand is easy because we are its contemporaries, on the other hand, it's difficult, because of the predicted have not come true, and remains hidden. Having considered the image of the beast of Daniel's prophecy, we come to the conclusion that the two images ("like a lion" and "like a bear") are already of the facts, and the other two ("like a leopard" and "a terrible fourth")are not yet open.

In order to confirm our assumption that the vision of Daniel refers to the New Testament history, let's take a closer look at the animals that have been shown in a prophetic vision of John the Revelator and try to understand the fact that they stand for.

Revelation occurs four animal images, which can be attributed to the power of the enemy: the dragon, the beast out of the sea, the beast out of the earth (with horns like a lamb), and the beast upon which sits the harlot-Babylon. Consider these images in more detail.

1) Dragon

" And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born. And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne. And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days. And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. " (Revelation. 12: 3-9)

Characteristics of the image:

Great red dragon

Seven heads and ten horns;

Crowns - with the number of seven - on the heads of the dragon.

The text clearly states that the beast is Satan. But he was shown to John, apparently, not in its own view, but as an allegory. Many heads, horns and crowns, of course, carries a hidden meaning.

2) The Beast out of the sea.

" And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority. And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast. And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him? And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. " (Revelation. 13: 1-7)

Characteristics of the image:

Beast (not the dragon), emerging from the sea;

Seven heads and ten horns (comparable with Satan-dragon);

Crowns - with the number of ten - on the horns (as opposed to the seven crowns for the seven heads of the dragon Satan);

On their heads - the names of blasphemy;

Given mouth in blasphemy against God and dwell in heaven;

Has the features of a leopard, a bear, a lion;

Has the dragon power, his throne, force;

One of the heads is kind of mortally wounded, but healed;

Has the power to win for a short time even the saints, and of all nations and tribes.

3) The Beast out of the earth

" And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. " (Revelation. 13: 11-17)

Characteristics of the image:

Out of the ground;

Has two horns like a lamb (Lamb in Revelation is sometimes referred to Christ, for example, Rev. 17: 14);

Speaks like a dragon;

Has all the power of previous animal and uses it to make all the nations to worship the previous beast, or - death;

Performs great signs and wonders that no one can't repeat, and thus deceives people;

Makes everyone take some of the previous identification of the beast under pain of deprivation of the right to sale or buy anything.

4) the beast that carries the harlot-Babylon

" So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration " (Revelation. 17: 3-6)

Characteristics of the image :

Is in the desert;

Has the purple color

Has seven heads and ten horns (associated with two other beasts, but doesn't have any crowns on heads, like a dragon, or on the horns, like a beast out of the sea);

Full of names of blasphemy.

Analysis of the various interpretations

Usually it's the fourth beast, which sits on the harlot-Babylon stands for commentators as to the key for the understanding of similarities with him beast coming up out of the sea, because his image has some decoding of the text. But let's ask the question: Are these images identical? And can ewe apply the decryption of one to interpret and explain the other?

In Revelation three similar in some general features of the beast are given (by number of heads and horns): red dragon is Satan, the beast from the sea, colored wild beast. But we know that all three are not Satan. Satan is only the first animal - a red dragon. Consequently, two other images, though similar in some respects, may be still different images, and we shouldn't use the decryption of one image to another interpretation.

Existing opinions.

Here is what Irenaeus (130-202 years) writes, " The coming of his [the Antichrist] John depicted in Revelation: " And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority. And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast. And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him? And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. If any man have an ear, let him hear. He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints. "(Rev. 13: 2-10). Then he speaks of his armor-bearer, which is also called a false prophet, " And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live" (Rev. 13: 11-14)." [5]

So, in the opinion of Irenaeus : dragon is Satan, the beast out of the sea is the Antichrist, the beast of the earth with horns like a lamb is a false prophet, "squire" of Antichrist . A similar view belongs in the VI century to St. Andrew of Caesarea:

St. Andrew of Caesarea in "The Interpretation of the Apocalypse" (written between 563 and 614 years): " Some animal under [coming out of the sea] have some of the lowest power of Satan having authority over other demons, and by coming out of the ground after it [with horns like lamb] - Antichrist. Methodius, Hippolytus, and others take this beast for most of the Antichrist coming from restless and stormy sea "

And on the third beast (with horns like a lamb), the saint writes in the chapter with the revealing title "On the false prophet" (word 13 chapter 37): " Some say that this beast is the Antichrist, others think - Satan and his two horns - Antichrist and the false prophet. If you think that the false prophet will come in your face, it f inappropriate to take the serpent Satan, the beast out of the sea - for the Antichrist, and the beast of this, according to the blessed Irenaeus, - for the false prophet "

Thus, in the interpretation of Andrew Cesarean also red dragon is Satan, the beast out of the sea is a power of Satan or the Antichrist, and the beast of the earth with horns like a lamb is a false prophet . That is, a parody of Christ in all its details, the Antichrist will be, according to some commentators have their forerunner, " the Baptist apostate false Christ-magic and deception will do all to the seduction of the people that took the Antichrist as God, as the famous finisher of those miracles and been undoubted Fame, like the Baptist, leads believers to the Savior, and for a lie to deceive people try to imitate the truth ". [6]

Hippolytus of Rome who lived in the II century (170 - 236) left us a book "About Christ and Antichrist," agrees with the interpretation of Irenaeus about the Antichrist and his false prophet, but believes that the image of the beast out of the earth with horns like a lamb - it's the kingdom of the Antichrist, and the two horns of it are the Antichrist and the false prophet " (Revelation. 13: 11-18) In this case, the beast rising from the earth, he calls having to be the kingdom of the Antichrist, and by the two horns (of course), as himself, and the false prophet, has come along with it. Tags: his horns are the likeness of a lamb (mean) that he wants to be like the Son of God and shows himself king . " Other beasts in the same Hippolytus of Rome have no interpretations, but to explain the time of the Antichrist Hippolytus used the imagery of the Old Testament. Specifically, the vision of the four beasts shown to Daniel, leaving without consideration of other beasts of the Apocalypse.

Does the beast out of the sea mean the Antichrist?

It is easy to see that the beast out of the sea combines all the features of the beasts-kingdoms of Daniel's vision: " And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion "(Revelation 13: 2). Matches the number of heads (1 + 1 + 4 + 1 = 7 [one lion, one bear, four-ounce, one - scary]) and the number of the horns - 10 at the last beast of Daniel's vision, and 10 horns in each of the three beasts of the Apocalypse

However, commentators of early centuries, as mentioned earlier, believed that Daniel's vision of the Old Testament refers to four kingdoms: Babylon, Medo-Persian, Greek and Roman. That is the conclusion of them apparently has declined previous interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar's dream, this Daniel, exactly where these kingdoms were shown as a graven image (Dan. 2: 1-45). But this explanation is hardly appropriate, since Daniel himself distinguished between the first and the second dream vision. The first dream of the king of Babylon, he, with God's help explains to him, using these images. But the second vision, caused him embarrassment and awe (Dan. 7: 15), and demanded an explanation of the Angel. In addition, the last vision clearly refers to the end times, as it involves and the Court of Christ over all nations (Daniel. 7: 13-14).

This interpretation of beasts-kingdoms of Daniel's vision, as the kingdoms of the Old Testament, is shared by many commentators today, although more likely it can be assumed that these images are shown of the kingdom are not modern Daniel. What do combine the four beasts of Daniel's vision, the image of the beast out of the sea, in the vision of St. John the Divine, clearly referring to the New Testament time. And if this is true, then the image of the beast out of the sea can't mean the Antichrist. Antichrist should be considered as the image of the beast out of the earth, " had two horns like a lamb , "that is seeking to become like Christ.

If we take the view that there will be and the false prophet, there is another important historical figure, requiring its description and explanation. And now, for example, Daniil Sysoev says that the false prophet will impersonate the Messiah.

" And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon " (Revelation. 13, 11). So, we can see how there is a new, third beast, the third member of the demonic "trinity" ... A false prophet - the forerunner of the fake, fake deceiver, the villain .... And the third beast, the prophet will impersonate the Messiah, he is a Jew, a descendant of Dan " [7]

According to the interpretation of Daniil Sysoev false prophet would be pretend to be the Messiah. Logic interpreter is clear: if the Antichrist will pretend to be God, the false prophet will be to impersonate the Messiah. But under a false Christ, under a false messiah Church has always understood the Antichrist, not someone else. Therefore, it seems unnecessary to enter more and the false prophet - the figure is as meaningful to her was paid as much attention in the vision of St. John the Divine, as the Antichrist. We believe that a false prophet in Revelation is called as the Antichrist. He - the beast out of the earth, with horns like a lamb - is a clear sign that indicates that a false prophet, a false Messiah Antichrist will try to convince everyone that he is the Second Coming of Christ. Besides, it is said that it will make many miracles to deceive people, even relegate fire on the earth (Revelation. 13:13). And this will be done by the Antichrist in order to convince all of his supposedly divine dignity.

The beast out of the sea, identical to the beasts of the four-kingdoms of Daniel's vision is not the Antichrist, but something else.

An interesting look at the beast coming up out of the sea Archpriest Sergius Bulgakov has, " The vision of the beast contemplated Seer "on the sand of the sea" as "out of the sea." The latter is here synonymous with deep, but can refer to in this case and the sea folk, natural humanity, taken from its carnal and spiritual life, in this sense, its animalism. Beast as in this case, obviously, means the State , and not just in the sense of State law enforcement organizations, helping humanity on its ways, but a totalitarian state, that pretends to be the sole and complete in the beginning of human life . "[ 3]

Further, Archpriest Sergei also pays attention to the identity of the images of the New and Old Testaments: " One beast of Revelation correspond to the four great beasts do not like one another. The first of them "like a lion", the second - "like a bear", the third "like a leopard", the fourth beast was dreadful and terrible, who "was different from all the beasts" (Dan. VII, 4-7). In John Feral these images focus on one thing: "the beast which I saw was like a leopard, but had feet like a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion and the dragon gave him his power " (XIII, 2). This difference doesn't alter the substance of the matter, which is the beast that embodies the fullness of Feral with its various aspects and manifestations. The Beast of Revelation has seven heads (at Daniel's, the same number obtained from the addition of the two heads of the first beast with four heads of the third and the fourth head, Dan. VII, 6-8) ". [Ibid.]

In understanding of Archpriest Sergius Bulgakov: dragon is Satan, the beast from the sea is a totalitarian state, and beast of the earth is the Antichrist (also the false prophet). Admittedly, that such an interpretation most harmoniously combines the Old and New Testament prophecy. And we must remember the words of Christ and the Apostles, spoke about what will be the Antichrist (cf. John 5: 43) - " and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition "(2 Thessalonians 2: 3.8), but not to talk about another" false prophet "nor as a helper or as a precursor of the Antichrist, nor, especially, the false messiah.

True, there may be a problem of interpretation places the Apocalypse, where it is said of the beast and the " false prophet ", as it were, of two persons (Rev. 16: 13, 19: 20, 20: 10):

" And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. "( Rev.16 13)

" And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone" (Rev. 19: 20)

" And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. " (Revelation 20: 10)

Many commentators, as it seems to us, treating vision of St. John the Divine, forgot about getting the form of prophecy, namely, that John didn't come up with images that convey some secret language of the descendants of important information, but he had a vision, which he wrote not understanding much of what he saw.

Here what he says about it:

" I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea" (Revelation. 1: 10-11)

While the text of the interpreters sometimes becomes apparent that they think differently, or forget, that John doesn't describe the nature of events, and vision, the essence of which, perhaps, even they are not understood. Here, for example, what Fr Sergey Bulgakov says:

" And when he writes and describes him to open, he grabs the familiar images, looking for funds transfer. They are inadequate and inaccurate, but they convey the very essence of what he had seen and heard and the guarantee is the inspiration of the described events "[3]

But if we remember that this is a vision that is described by John the Theologian, much will fall into place. John is shown a vision of the beast out of the sea, and the false prophet were thrown alive into the lake of fire (Revelation. 19: 20). Does this mean that these images are of two people? We see the destruction of two enemy images: the state of the godless (by Bulgakov) and the Antichrist (the false prophet). Our land is cleansed through the overthrow of the beast and the false prophet in the lake of fire.

And that could mean " the beast and the false prophet ... shall be tormented day and night forever and ever . " Perhaps this image says that cast into the lake of fire people who were godless activities. And in John's vision, it was presented in fairly concise manner as beast cast in the lake of fire. After all, the fate of the enemies of God is in the lake of fire (Rev. 21: 8)

Danger of literal

interpretation of some images

It can be assumed that many commentators believed the Antichrist beast out of the sea also because in Revelation 13:14 speaks of animal images, or " icon "(in the Slavonic translation). And this image will speak and act to the same.

" And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. "

(Revelation. 13: 11-15)

Prophetic Image certainly pushes some commentators to suggest that the image of the Antichrist, the more the image speaks and acts. But only if we understand the vision literally. We've already seen that the image of the dragon of the sea, the beasts of the identical four kingdoms of Daniel's vision, and not a person, and his " image " isn't an image of the Antichrist. Once again, we are faced with the danger of a literal interpretation of the secret places of the Apocalypse. So, we must understand the " image of the beast "as a symbol of the Antichrist state or the Antichrist godless forces. And we should separate allegorical prophetic image (vision) and the events that it describes in this way. Otherwise we get the interpretation like the following:

" It is said that the demons by magic often spoke through images, statues, trees, water and other things; maybe even through the bodies of the dead, as it showed Simon Magus before the Romans in the presence of the Apostle Peter, who denounced his deception, showing rebellion dead, whom he raised himself. Therefore, there is nothing strange in the fact that the forerunner of the Antichrist and his armor-bearer with the help of demons, making an image of the beast, false show him speaking, beating all orders not to worship him "[6]

St. Victorine Petaviysky in interpreting the prophecies of the " way of speaking , "writes that the statue of the Antichrist, hoisting of the temple in Jerusalem" will include a fallen angel "[8] Other commentators have said that the statue will be enlivened by Magis. All of these are examples of the dangers of literal understanding of the mysterious images.

In the same way, the words about one of the heads of the beast out of the sea as it was mortally wounded (" Thou slain beasts in death ") and healed is interpreted by those who believe the Antichrist is beast out of the sea, as False wonder of Antichrist.

" And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast. "( Rev. 13: 3)

Daniil Sysoev wrote about this passage: " There are two complementary explanations for this verse. First, that the Antichrist will be like a mortally wounded, but healed by the power of Satan. That is going to happen staged an attack that ended instantaneous allegedly miraculous healing. It will be a kind of witchcraft wraith induced people. There is a second interpretation, related to the first. It is very old - dating back to Saint Irenaeus of Lyon, get it from the St. John the Evangelist. According to the second interpretation, the deadly wound means that after this "miracle" antichrist will restore the global Roman Empire "[7]

If we understand the beast out of the sea as the Antichrist, the interpretation is clear: the Antichrist had a mortal wound, but was miraculously healed. However, another interpretation is the restoration of the missing state (the Roman Empire), it's more suitable, if we assume that the beast from the sea is not a person. And if we stay on the assumption that the beast from the sea is a godless power or totalitarian state, as Archpriest Sergius Bulgakov believed, the second explanation is closer to the truth.

So, we stay on following interpretation of the beasts of the Apocalypse:

red dragon - Satan;

the beast from the sea - a kind of godless force maximum stepping into the New Testament period four times;

beast from the earth, with horns like a lamb - the Antichrist (also the false prophet).

What godless force

dows the beast out of the sea mean?

So, the beast out of the sea is, according to Archpriest Sergius Bulgakov, a totalitarian state or some godless system (force). To decrypt this way we have used images of the four beasts of Daniel's prophecy. And it is clearly stated that it was " four kingdoms , "or, in other words, the four spike godless activity should occur in the New Testament period. And if they are shown to Daniel individually, then to John they are shown in the form of a beast.

And if the beast from the sea isn't the Antichrist, but some godless force, it is interesting to consider: what can actually mean image of mortal wound on one of the heads of the beast, which is healed in a wonderful way for the observers.

" And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast. " . (Revelation. 13: 3)

As it was shown earlier, commentators are suggesting that the image points to the Antichrist, believe that the Antichrist will allegedly fatally wounded, and wonders of Magis convince everybody of its miraculous healing. But if the image of the beast out of the sea is a kind of God-fighting force, this phenomenon has more global properties. We don't undertake to answer unequivocally, what is meant here. It can be assumed that meant the disappearance of the state of Israel, and the appearance of it again on the world map in 1948. Although, of course, it isn't the state of education, but in the power of the godless, scattered throughout the world after the fall of the Jews, but hasn't disappeared and isn't soluble in the environment of other nations, but insurgent from oblivion after 18 centuries scattering.

Of course, this image could mean an event which hasn't happened yet. However, the image of a mortal wound healing and in tune with what was said about the beast that carries the harlot-Babylon:

" The beast that thou sawest was, and isn't; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and isn't, and yet is . "(Revelation 17: 8).

This image can be said more globally, and it hardly describes one nation or one country, and the godless forces in general. Let's consider the image in detail.

The image of the harlot-Babylon on a scarlet beast

" So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration. " (Revelation. 17: 3-6)

The image of the harlot has a name: " MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. "(Revelation 17: 5). Image of harlot-Babylon is provided with detailed explanations. Similarly, the scarlet beast wearing harlot gets the most lengthy explanation.

Let's see what the Holy Fathers say about the image.

Hippolytus of Rome meant by the image of harlot the Roman Empire, where, in his opinion, the Antichrist should prevail. Recall that the saint lived in the days of the Roman Empir.

Archbishop. Andrew of Caesarea : " Some have taken this harlot in ancient Rome ... We are the same ... I think that is called a whore at all earthly kingdom, as it were, in one body to represent, or the city, who will reign until the coming of the Antichrist. Former Rome lost the royal power since the earliest times, unless we assume that the former dignity again return to it ... [6]. " That is, Andrew of Caesarea in the VI century doesn't see such a city, and tends to generalize that the harlot is " all earthly kingdom ", or any city in the future, if such appears.

Archpriest Sergei Bulgakov , " "The Great Whore" is here a general and preliminary qualitative designation of the kingdom of the beast, civitas diabolica. Angel promises to "show court over her," "[3]

What is interesting, Sergei Bulgakov in images of harlot-Babylon and the beast on which she sits sees some extent identification. That is, the harlot in this manner can't be considered separately from the scarlet beast, and vice versa.

" Chapter XVII (with XVIII) overarching theme is the fate of the beast, and the historical judgment of God's over him, the first of which is devoted to the fate of its predominantly foreign, the second is the cultural and economic. This idea is expressed in the dual form of wife-whore of Babylon and the kingdom of the beast, and they both spiritually merge almost to the identification , though still and different "(ibid)

" "And I saw a woman sitting upon a scarlet colored beast" (the purple color is a symbol of wealth and splendor). Here, we see the image of woman and the beast outwardly and inwardly converging to the spiritual identification "(ibid);

" "Secret" is a decree on the hidden, symbolic meaning of this image, which is common for the "woman and the beast." In other words, this is evidenced by their internal and external communication, spiritual identification "(ibid).

Archbishop Averky (Taushev) : " More general interpretation is inclined to see in this harlot, bearing the name of Babylon, all the general lowland-sensual and anti-Christian culture of the last days of humanity, which expects a terrible global catastrophe at the end of the world and the Second Coming of Christ. The fall of "Babylon" appears in the Apocalypse as the first act of the victory in the global fight against the Church of Christ with the sinful kingdom of the devil "[9]

Orthodox writer N.E. Pestov defines harlot as "fallen away from the Church of Christ", giving this explanation: " The mystery of iniquity its artfully disguised for centuries. But in the era of the antichrist its wickedness has reached its apogee. Then it will be unmasked and become apparent betrayal of the one who by his vocation was to be the Bride of Christ "[10]. Next, he speaks of " the bad and false Christians " writes: " it is the evil inside the church, like a poison in the blood , "etc. This position is clearly taken from the sect, which this image interprets as the Catholic Church and Babylon - as the Vatican. This is clearly wrong statement, which happens to be accepted by some Orthodox commentators.

Analogy with the Church is seen probably because the image of " wife clothed with the sun "(Rev. 12: 1) uniquely interpreted by everyone as the image of the Church of Christ. And that's why the image of a harlot for many people acts s its opposite. A cup in hand looks like a harlot contrast Eucharistic chalice. But the Church is the mystical body of Christ, God can't be the body of a harlot (1 Cor. 6:15), and there can't be two churches - good and bad, for one church (Wed Ephesus. 4: 5) is the pillar and ground of the truth (1Tim.3 15). In addition, we find in the description of the harlot-Babylon the following characteristics:

"... Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. "(Revelation. 18: 2)

" And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth. " (Revelation. 18:24)

" And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration. " (Rev. 17: 6)

All-encompassing is obvious: " all nations , "" all that were slain upon the earth . " Last time addressing to the misconception of N.E. Pestov, we note that the community is " bad Christians or imaginary - only in form - Christians "and Babylon, as a community of murderers saints and spiritual degrees, where is found the blood of prophets and" all that were slain upon the earth "can't be reconciled in any way. Only sectarians who hate the Church can think so. Think, but not to justify!

What then may be hiding under the images harlot-Babylon and carring her scarlet beast, which, according to Archpriest Sergius Bulgakov, has inner identity? Recall that according to St. Andrew of Caesarea, it is " all earthly kingdom . " We must understand that St. Andrew is referring to an earthly kingdom, which the apostle James calls the world, friendship with whom is enmity against God:

" Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God . " (James 4: 4)

In this sense, Christ puts himself against the world:

" And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world. " (John 8: 23)

But the world as God's creation, created originally good (Genesis 1: 8 - 25), can't be in a murderer or something nasty to God. It is obvious that harlot-Babylon refers to a specific community of people. And the angel said to John:

" Come hither; I will show unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters: "(Rev. 17: 1)

And further it explains:

" And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues. " (Rev. 17: 15).

And it's not just people in general, who presides over someone or something. The nations don't know Christ either, or hostile to Him and His Church. This is what we mean by the characteristic " scarlet beast ", full of names of blasphemy (Rev. 17: 3). However, is it possible to blaspheme Him Whom you don't know? No. In addition, about a scarlet beast it says:

" The beast that thou sawest was, and isn't; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and isn't, and yet is. "(Revelation 17: 8).

Key words here: " come out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition "or more" was and isn't and is to come . " That is, in the first case: appear and disappear into the abyss. In the second case detail: there was, for some time and wasn't seen again appeared to be lost in the future in the final abyss. These characteristics can't be attributed to the peoples who don't know Christ. Since the Gentiles were always and never disappeared (" was and isn't and is to come "). And even more so, ignorant of Christ nations came not out of the abyss, and even the question of the death of the Gentiles isn't solved by the Church unequivocally.

Thus, the water, on which sits the harlot Babylon, is a lot of people from different tribes and peoples struggling with Christ and His Church. This is godless force of all time. Here comes the inclusiveness in the characteristics of the image: the beast and the harlot denounced " the blood of prophets and saints and all that were slain upon the earth . "

Harlot sits on the beast (the godless force) that can be understood as a sign of subordination of the beast to the harlot. Harlot takes precedence over a scarlet colored beast, as the rider takes precedence over the horse.

Certainly not by accident John was shown the image opposite the image of the Church (wife, clothed like the sun). The fact that harlot in any way can't be ranked among the Christian community (be it Catholic or Protestant) seems obvious. But look for the opposite of the Church may be worth. The word "church" is translated as " a gathering of people . " Essentially, this is a close-knit group of like-minded people united in the conviction of different tribes and peoples. May be a harlot symbolizes just kind of close-knit community of a single faith. And more cohesive than the godless nations, and languages, designated way " many waters ", where the harlot sits.

Harlot is otherwise referred to the city of Babylon, and the scarlet beast stands for " people and nations, and tongues . " That is, the tip of the godless ideological forces (the harlot-Babylon) is outnumbered than " many waters "(languages, tribes and nations) as far smaller population of the city in relation to the tribes and peoples. And community leading in atheistic deal has all the features of the church, but opposite to it. Hence the image of his wife-whore opposite image Woman clothed with the sun. And a bowl of abominations in the hands of a harlot may also indicate a perverse nature of this community, a parody of the Church, or act as an additional attribute indicating the ideological elite, as it were, to a certain godless anti-church. Though perhaps the fact that the cup is a symbol of intoxication fornication.

Trying now to call it community specific name, I think, is impossible. Only because that the image passes through the centuries. And some of its manifestations today can only be a part, but not the whole. Revelation says that there are forces an orderly and consciously resisting the truth and fighting the Church. And also that there are many tribes and nations that support the anti-church. As it is written:

" With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication. " (Revelation. 17: 2).

In this sense, Bulgakov is right: Between a scarlet beast and the harlot-Babylon there's a lot of identity. " Living on Earth "voluntarily revel wine of her fornication, that is, choose the lusts of this world, even knowing that it is contrary to God, and through that become more and more committed to the anti-church. The harlot and the scarlet beast mutually use each other. Harlot-Babylon uses a scarlet beast (nations and tongues) to blaspheme God (" the beast full of names of blasphemy ") and fight with the Church and Christians," the woman drunken with the blood of the saints and the blood of Jesus , "finding in it her rapture. And the nations drunk withis way struggle with God, for the glory and riches of this world (James 4: 4).

It should be noted that in Revelation there are two symbols of the city, opposed to each other: this is the city of Jerusalem and the city of Babylon. In addition to its literal meaning, historic towns, they are endowed with different meaning. So Jerusalem represented the kingdom of heaven is called the " heavenly city "(Rev. 3: 12 Revelation 21: 2,10). And the name of the city "Babylon"is translated from the local language as "gate of God." It is clear that it means the god of the Gentiles. And how can we not recall the prophetic words of Christ said to Peter about the Church:

" That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. "( Matt. 16:18).

Perhaps the image of Babylon in Revelation represents those " gates of hell " which are not destined to overcome the Church. And if the city of Jerusalem in Revelation represented as the kingdom of heaven, then Babylon becomes its ideological opposite, the realm of " the prince of this world "(John.12: 31), a metaphorical city filled with fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. (Rev. 21: 8).

Participation in the affairs of the spiritual Babylon - this is the way that leads to destruction. But here is the possibility of salvation through repentance. For people who are still able to repent, words are turned:

" And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. " (Revelation. 18: 4)

Here you can see some of the contradictions: on the one hand, about scarlet beast it is said that it came out of the bottomless pit and go to perdition. At the same time, it is people who couldn't get out of the abyss and to them or some of them the words are addressed: " Come out of her, my people . "

Therefore, excessive literalness in the interpretation of the allegorical imagery here may be harmful and lead in astray. We need a certain extent detached view, we need the ability to capture everything and understand the essence of the message, expressed sometimes with the help seems contradictory images.

Such contradictions we can try to explain, for example, as follows. In death " all evil " goes ( Rev. 21: 27). In this sense, the scarlet beast, as the image of God-fighting force, goes into perdition. He came out of the abyss - the ideology of Satan, the main militant atheists. And the people and nations, its components are only deceived. And that's why through repentance they can come out of this spiritual Babylon. And saying, " My people , " voice from Heaven shows that under seduction aren't only pagans. But it may have another explanation: for example, that only by becoming a Christian you can get out of this spiritual Babylon. That is, God is calling to become the people of God, and through it to get out of spiritual Babylon. Maybe appeal " my people "is a reference to the Jews.

We pay attention to the fact that the holy fathers tried not to go into too detailed interpretation of the images that have been and may still be a long time will remain to a certain extent intimate. That's why the church interpreters often leave many details without explaining: likeseven mountains on which the woman sits, or what the following words mean:

" And the beast that was, and isn't, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition. " (Rev. 17: 11)

What (or who) do ten horns of the beast and the seven heads represent, what does the number of the beast - 666 mean, etc. Although similar in-depth study of details and interpretation of it are sins of different sects. That's why we don't undertake to treat many of the images, which may have not opened yet, or can't be understood by our generation.

The third and the fourth beast

of the prophecies of Daniel

The third beast of prophecy

" After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it. " (Daniel 7: 6)

It isn't yet possible to say what would be the third surge godless activity, similar to those that took place already in New Testament times: the Roman Empire and on the territory of Russia in the first quarter of the XX century. We can't say where we could find a third burst of activity godless, why the prophecy used image of the beast resembling a leopard, ​​why he has four heads, four bird's wing, and what " power was given to him" means. All that we seem to find out later, when the "third kingdom of the beast" will begin to take shape.

The fourth beast of prophecy

" After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns. I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things. " (Daniel 7: 7-8)

On the fourth kingdom, oddly enough, more is known. Because and Daniel, and John, and Ezra tell in the third book, and all the prophets, when they speak of the coming Day of Wrath, describe the events related to the time of arrival of the Antichrist. After all, with the arrival of the Antichrist fourth flash godless activity is linked shown to Daniel in a strong and terrible beast.

That's why we can very accurately determine the duration of this period. 1260 days, or 42 months, or 3.5 years the Antichrist will rule, referred to as " the man of sin "and" the son of perdition . " Terms of reign of the Antichrist are totally unambiguous.

Also we know that there will be a departure from the faith. So Jesus says, "when he come, will the Son of man find faith on earth "?

Therefore, to survive in the dying nature, in a moral decline and general apostasy from the truth, in the cities will be almost impossible, the Savior tells to" flee to the mountains , "that means hiding from the government and corrupted society.

The faith won't disappear completely, and even the Church will continue, albeit in a small remnant. John the Revelator is shown in the image of the wife, who had fled into the wilderness (Rev. 12: 14), that is hidden from the eyes godless in inaccessible places.

As it's shown in human history, there will be many killed and tortured for the faith, but most will be those who quietly accept the new ruler. And it will be truly the last days!

About the print of the Antichrist

First of all, we note that in the history, as the Apostle John says, there are many antichrists (1Ioan.2: 18). Antichrists were at all times, and will, in fact, that " man of sin "and" son of perdition "is talking about John the Evangelist in the Apocalypse. It must be remembered always as bowed Antichrist, as well as " who did not take print "were, are and will be at any time.

Another confirmation that the Antichrist and his seal is a phenomenon characteristic for different times, we can learn from the Bible. Revelation says that in the beginning of the millennium reign of Christ with him will reign those who

" had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads"( Revelation. 20: 4).

That is, during the time of " first the kingdom of the beast "- the Roman Empire time - there were bowed and not bowed to the Antichrist, who accept and did not accept the seal of the Antichrist.

On the basis of a literal misunderstanding of the place of the Apocalypse chiliasts argued that the millennial reign will come after the " man of sin ", who conquered the whole earth. And this, as we know, is a mistake. Antichrists and their prints (though still figuratively) is a timeless and "international" phenomenon and characteristic for all four flares godless activity are shown to Daniel in the form of four animals, which are destined to occur in the period between the first and second coming of Jesus Christ.

Illustrative in this respect are the words of St. Seraphim of Sarov, said to spiritual children in the first half of the XIX century: " You will not live up to the Antichrist, and the time of the Antichrist will experience "[11] That is, the Seraphim calls at times of Antichrist, apparently coming flash godless activity in Russia. It is clear that, as in the Roman Empire there were those who accepted and did not accept the print, and during the second flash godless activity (Antichrist times) there were adopted and did not accept print. And is it not in some physical act, but in the spiritual renunciation of Christ.

Now there is a lot of talk about the last days of the Antichrist and his print. Surely the time is coming to an end, the chaos intensified, amplified, and the retreat of people, there is a "cooling of faith." But all this was predicted and known Church. So let's listen to the words of Ignatius (Bryanchaninov): " The retreat allowed by God not to encroach infirm stop your hand. Persists, save by yourself, and that you've had enough. Check out the spirit of the times, study it to avoid as much as possible the influence of him . " [12]

There is little on what we can influence, but ourselves, and how often the desire to correct others, the desire to teach are just the machinations of the evil spirit, exciting pride and destructive self-confidence. As it's instructed by Seraphim of Sarov " acquire the spirit of peace and thousands around you will be saved . " The more unacceptable to blame the hierarchy of the Church, while there is no breach of regulations of the Seven Ecumenical Councils - a landmarks that we should hold.

As we already understand, antichrists have always been, and there was always the danger of betrayal (print accepting). In Rome renounced Christ and sacrificed to idols became such, such were in Russia. But it is certainly not the ones who put on "budenovka" with a star went to the front. We know that the whole army was in the stars, but that didn't turn them away from the Lord of warriors who defended Russia from the world of neo-paganism - fascism. Thus the LORD helped our soldiers. Print of Antichrist was taken by those who mocked the saints buried alive, drowned in boiling tar, killed, who pulled down the temples and disfiguring, who condemned to death by starvation and people poisoned gases, shot guns, rebellious peasants. But the severity of the betrayal by those who replaced the cross on the membership card for material benefits. These accepted the print of Antichrist! And when John the Evangelist speaks about the print, without which you can't buy bread - it's true, it will be, but it will be in the most recent times - at the fourth and final outbreak of rebellion - in the days of " the man of sin and son of perdition . " But then, even the name of Christ can't be utter without being caught. And the accepting of print for food or benefits would be a betrayal of Christ, as we are warned in advance.

Today there is no such thing. But we shouldn't delude ourselves, like, the time of those is still far away. You can accept the print anytime, anywhere, and to each of us sooner or later a choice may come. You can accept print in seemingly tranquil times. This print is betrayal and denial. Whether there is a formal renunciation, in words, or the adoption of printing on the forehead and arm. This betrayal can't be justified either by fear of hunger, nor, especially, the desire "to live like everyone else." Compromise with Satan isn't possible, and any dealings with him leads to death.

Print of Antichrist isn't some form, which was drew, appropriated or applied to laser, print the Antichrist is a conscious rejection of Christ. God did not give in the past, the present and will not in the future give Satan and the host of his power over the human heart and mind. Especially, there wasn't, isn't and won't be such a terrible instrument as print (character, word, symbol) that one touch would kill the person in the sanctity of the Spirit received in christening. It is written:

" your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost"( 1Cor.6: 19).

Body is likened to the temple. Will the temple become unholy, when the enemy trace out a sign on the outer wall of it? No! Till people inside (the essence of the human soul) keep him faithful, until " abomination of desolation " is set, nothing external is scary! Although you shouldn't treat that lightly and complacent. Time is going to end, the chaos is intensified, and we must be vigilant.

" Let no man deceive you by any means "(2 Thess. 2: 3)

However, it is unacceptable not to listen the voice of the Church, to seek out the Antichrist prints in passports, VATs, cards and other documents, if the Church tells us that today it isn't the print of the Antichrist.

Sources:  

1. "The Bible of Holy Scripture " (3m ) // reprint Savvino Storozhevsky Monastery Design: "Rule of Faith" M ., 1999

2 . "The Bible of scripture of the Old and New Testament " canonical in Russian translation with parallel passages , 1991

3. S.N. Bulgakov " Apocalypse of John" Paris 1948

4. S.N. Bulgakov " Christian socialism", Nauka, Novosibirsk, 1991, p. 232

5. Irenaeus ' " Against Heresies ( Refutation and denial of what is falsely called knowledge ), V 25-36 Ch. XXVIII. About the difference between the righteous and the wicked ; about the future of apostasy and the Antichrist at the end of the world "

6. Andrew of Caesarea, " Commentary on the Apocalypse of St. John the Divine "

7. Daniil Sysoev " Commentary on the Apocalypse" Missionary Center . priest Daniil Sysoev , 2011 p. 188-189

8. Victorin de Poetovio . Sur l'Apocalypse et autres ecrits. Paris , 1997 , r.108 (Sources chretiennes, 423).

9. Archbishop Averky ( Taushev). Apocalypse : Or Revelation of St. John the Divine , M .: Cross Library of Serbia 2006

10. N.E. Pestov "Reflections on the Apocalypse " Orthodox Brotherhood of St. John the Evangelist , 2011

11. "The Life , teachings and prophecies of St. Cerafim Sarov " Poltava Eparchy of the UOC Spaso-Preobrazhensky Mgarsky Monastery , 2001

12. Bryanchaninov I. " Complete collection of works" Palmer , Moscow 2007

 

Chapter VI

Numbers

Now we come to the most controversial part of our study - the calculation of the date. Formally there's no ban of it in Scripture. Matthew recorded the words of Christ:

" But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. " (Matthew 24: 36)

Firstly, it's restricted to small time period - day and hour - and there is no prohibition numbered year or a larger time period. Secondly, the apostles, and through them to all the faithful are encouraged to keep track of what's going on in the world, so that at some point in history, it was possible to conclude that the approximation of the time.

" Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it's near, even at the doors" (Matthew 24: 32-33)

And those who have these signs doesn't want to see the Lord even exposes the hypocrisy:

" He answered and said unto them, When it's evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? " (Matt. 16: 2,3)

And if the judge logically, must sooner or later come a time when people are "signs of the times" and to commit events will learn time approximation end of history. For example, it would be quite obvious after the arrival of the Antichrist: it's enough to add three and a half years. Now it's not so obvious, but it's much clearer than before. However, all thoughts on this topic are only predictions and attempt to read the "signs of the times."

Method number one

Three times in the Bible is a sentence that says about the duration of an important period of history, and to pronounce it in the mysterious, if not encrypted, form. This key phrase is, "to a time and times and the dividing of time." And it meets both the Old and New Testaments.

" And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time. . " (Daniel 7: 25)

" it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished. " (Daniel 12: 7)

" And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent ." (Revelation. 12:14)

All interpreters unambiguously interpret these lines as three and a half years. Here's how St. Cyril of Jerusalem talks about it " the Antichrist will reign for three and a half years. Since not from questionable books, but from Daniel we read, "shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time." Time is the year, times the same - the next two years the evils in the three terms together, and half a time six months there. Also I have interpreted the following way: one thousand two hundred and ninety days "

St. Chrysostom: "He (the Antichrist) will not abide so long as heretics show, but as many days as it's written in Daniel. And this time is indicated by very clear - three years and six months, as the scripture calls the time of year. St. John also identified forty-two months. "

Bl. Augustine: "no one can doubt, though very negligent and dormant like read Daniel's the book, that the kingdom of evil, the Anti-Christ, against the Church has to be, though, for a little while, until the final judgment of God, the kingdom of the saints will receive an eternal here (Dan. 7). For the time and times and half a time is one year and two and a half; and because three years and a half, which is the number of days laid (Daniel 12: 11-12) can be seen, and sometimes the number of months that Scripture speaks. "

Bl. Theodoret, based on the words of Daniel (Daniel 12: 7-11), said: "This is three years and a half; as he called time a year that will see more clearly from the following, both at the time said, times and half a time, when the end in the overthrow of consecrated people, and they shall see the holy one and all this come to pass. After three and a half years of persecution and then continue all this come to pass. " ... "Words time, times and half a holy Daniel meaning three years and a half, during which will rule this speaking horn (Antichrist)." And elsewhere: "the abomination of desolation will be given to the 1290 days (Daniel 12:11). Said before: the end of time, times and half a time (Daniel 12: 7), the angel said that Daniel didn't quite understand, because the calculus time by leaps grasped incomprehensible to him ". [3]

Of course, it's not the only interpretation.

With regard to the duration of the reign of the Antichrist question doesn't arise because it's in defined with number of months different places - 42 (Rev 11: 2 Revelation 13: 5) - and even with the number of days -1290 (Daniel 12: 11). Surprising is "coding method": "time, times and half time." In fact, it's a formula that can be expressed mathematically as follows: 1 + 2 time time+ 0.5 time

or 3.5 * X = Y

where: X is any factor ("time");

Y is duration is the period

The number "X", referred as "time" is multiplied by a factor - or a universal factor (3.5). Let's explain: if the "time" (number X) is equal to one year, the determined period (Y) is equal to 3.5 years. If we take as a "time" for two years, then the defined period will be equal to seven years. If X = 20, Y = 70. Seventy years can also be expressed by the formula - "a time and times and the half of time."

For "X" it may be taken not only the year but also the month, day and even minute, which consequently affect the duration of the period defined by (Y), the formula will not change. Three and a half days, too, can be expressed by the formula - "a time and times and the half of time." We also note that the 3.5, 7, 49, 70, 490, - common in Scripture periods, all described by this formula.

It seems that the main Christian symbol - the Cross - as in some way connected with the factor 3.5. If we take the three intersecting lines of the integer and the uppermost horizontal bar (the symbolic image plates with the letters INRI "Jesus of Nazareth - King of the Jews") for 0.5 or half integer.

So, we have the formula and the universal factor, and it would be logical to build a table of possible "times." Of course, this table was built.

Time (X)

Period (Y)

X

Y

 

X

Y

 

X

Y

 

X

Y

1

3.5

 

229

801.5

 

...

...

 

552

1932

2

7

 

230

805

 

498

1743

 

553

1935.5

3

10.5

 

231

808.5

 

499

1746.5

 

554

1939

4

14

 

232

812

 

500

1750

 

...

...

5

17.5

 

233

815.5

 

501

1753,5

 

568

1988

6

21

 

234

819

 

502

1757

 

569

1991.5

7

24.5

 

235

822.5

 

...

...

 

570

1995

8

28

 

236

826

 

522

1827

 

571

1998.5

9

31.5

 

237

829.5

 

523

1830.5

 

572

2002

10

35

 

238

833

 

524

1834

 

573

2005.5

11

38.5

 

239

836.5

 

525

1837.5

 

574

2009

12

42

 

240

840

 

526

1841

 

575

2012.5

13

45.5

 

241

843.5

 

527

1844.5

 

576

2016

14

49

 

242

847

 

528

1848

 

577

2019.5

15

52.5

 

243

850.5

 

....

....

 

578

2023

16

56

 

244

854

 

547

1914.5

 

579

2026.5

17

59.5

 

245

857.5

 

548

1918

 

...

...

18

63

 

246

861

 

549

1921.5

 

664

2324

...

 

 

247

864.5

 

550

1925

 

665

2327.5

228

798

 

248

868

 

551

1928.5

 

666

2331

Originally this table continued after the "time" 666. However, subsequent calculations have shown that the numerical series can end this "time." As several other calculations quite clearly pointed out that the end time of our world is the year 2334. Thus, the mystical "time" 666, multiplied by the universal factor, given, as we see it, nothing else, as the date of the Antichrist.

One could argue that between 2331 and 2334 there are only three years, not three and a half years. But if from the beginning of 2331 the year we count three and a half years, it turns out mid-year 2334.

So, the first method of calculating the dates:

1) 3.5 * 666 = 2331 2331 +3.5 y = 2334

Method number two

The following method is based on the prophecy of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 25:11 30: 1-24) with respect to the end of the Babylonian captivity. It's known that Judah was conquered by the Chaldean king Nebuchadnezzar, and 70 years, as predicted earlier prophets continued so-called Babylonian captivity. There is reason to believe that the image of the Babylonian captivity in addition to direct - actually seventy-year period-is more and more global sense, presenting the image of being in captivity worldly, corrupting - captivity of sin. And the captivity will end only with the destruction of the world, has become a spiritual Babylon.

Among historians there is no consensus on the question: what year to start counting the beginning of the Babylonian captivity. Therefore we need some of the history.

History

In 627 BC dying king Ashurbanipal formidable Assyrian state, and after that - in 626 BC- separated from Assyria Chaldeans kingdom with its capital Babylon. In the next 20 years, the once powerful Assyria finally collapse under the blows of Babylon, and the Medes, which was divided between all her former possessions. Syria and Palestine, including Judah, had become an easy prey of Babylon. Egypt has also decided to take part in the division of the Assyrian heritage. Pharaoh Necho even tried to support the Assyrian garrisons in northern Syria, hoping to pick up their hands on, but failed. Then another commander Nebuchadnezzar II, who later became the ruler of Babylon, Egypt inflicted defeat in Syria at the Battle of Carchemish, and Necho had to retreat to Egypt to gather again the strength to fight with Babylon.

At this time, little Jews who were actually between two fires - Egypt and Babylon - ruled King Josiah (640 -609 BCE) years of his reign were relatively prosperous. the Scythians attacked the weakened Assyria, passed west of Judah, not significantly affecting the possessions of Josiah. In recent years, he even managed using the weakening of the Assyrian kingdom, to extend its authority to some areas, once formed part of the Kingdom of Israel, and later became the possession of the Assyrian king. Judah ceased to pay tribute to Assyria. [4]

There is reason to believe that if it were carried out some reforms of social character: in particular, passed a law to limit the term of the debt bondage, and ordered several proceedings (Jeremiah 22: 15-16), the last independent king Josiah of Judah. Becoming king at age 8, Josiah inherited a country, depraved half-century reign of his grandfather Manasseh (687-642 BC), who has brought Judah to the last stage of moral decay. Idolatry was elevated to a state religion. Even in the Temple of Jerusalem for public worship there was idol Astarte (4 Kings 21: 7). For this the Lord was angry with Judah finally (4 Kings 21: 10-16).

After Manasseh, his son Amon rules for two years (642-640 BC), but he was killed by conspirators. Josiah came to the throne a child. Unlike his grandfather and father, he was raised in piety, and in the eighteenth year of the reign decided to purge the country from idols, to eradicate idolatry and return to the faith of their fathers. In 622, he throws the idol of the Temple and the destruction of the idols conducts nationwide. Almost all the ministers vile cults were killed at the same time (4 Kings. Chapter 22 and Chapter 23) In the same year there was made ​​a covenant with the people of Judah and finding of "The Book of the Law" - or "Book of the Covenant" of Moses. From the year 622 the first time in decades, they celebrated the feast of Easter (4 Tsar23: 21-23). And this pious king, one "was not, either before or after " similar to him, (4Tsar 23: 25) was the last independent king of Judah. He was killed by an arrow in the battle with Necho (609 year), but this death is the will of God, to fulfill the promise not to give the pious king to see the horror and devastation coming upon Judah.

" Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof ... Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be kindled against this place ..... But to the king of Judah which sent you to inquire of the LORD, thus shall ye say to him : ... Because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the LORD, when thou heardest what I spake against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, that they should become a desolation and a curse , ...., Behold therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace; and thine eyes shall not see all the evil which I will bring upon this place. And they brought the king word again. "( 4 Kings. 22: 16-20).

Next comes the reign of his son Jehoahaz. But he lasted only three months, he was arrested and taken to the Pharaoh of Egypt. On Judah Pharaoh imposed tribute (4 Kings 23:33). It's no longer the people chooses a ruler, Pharaoh puts Jehoiakim (609-598 BC ), who ruled for 11 years. It was dependent king, and its share is unenviable. So in 606 BC it has imposed a tribute to Nebuchadnezzar (4 Kings 24: 1). In various sources there is no unity on this date. We define it as follows. Josiah reigned from 640 to 609 BC. After that, for three months, power came to Johanan. Joachim became the next king, appointed by Pharaoh (from 609 to 598 BC)

" And Pharaohnechoh made Eliakim the son of Josiah king in the room of Josiah his father, and turned his name to Jehoiakim, and took Jehoahaz away: and he came to Egypt, and died there. "(4 Kings 23:34).

In the third year of his reign Nebuchadnezzar takes Jerusalem by storm, captures some of the vessels of the temple in Jerusalem and imposed tribute on Judah. But historians can't come to a conclusion in what year it happened. According to A.P. Lopuhin: "When and under what circumstances subordinating of Jehoiakim to Nebuchadnezzar happened - it's difficult to determine with precision: in the book of Daniel (I: 1-2), Nebuchadnezzar in the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim was besieging Jerusalem, took it and seized the vessels of the temple in Jerusalem, 2 Chron. XXXVI: 6 with Joachim and there was put in chains, "to lead him to Babylon". [5]

We adhere to the Bible chronology, and we believe that it was the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim - that is, 600BC.

At that time, Judah was attacked by numerous hostile tribes and menacing neighbors: the Chaldeans, the Syrians, the Moabites, the Ammonites (4Tsar 24: 2). Upon the death of Jehoiakim only three months power comes to his son Jehoiachin in 598 BC. At this time, Nebuchadnezzar again besieged Jerusalem. King surrendered the city after a short siege. As a result, Jehoiachin and 10,000 Jews were taken captive to Babylon (4 Kings 24: 11-16). However, the city survived. And it was made ​​by Nebuchadnezzar, Zedekiah, who reigned for 11 years. At this time, Egypt was trying to increase its influence in Judea. The king was promised military aid, and he refused to pay tribute to Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar wasn't tolerate with such disrespect, and his troops after the 18-month siege took Jerusalem. The city and the temple were completely destroyed in the 586 BC, and the remnant of Judaists were taken away to Babylon. [6]

The symbolism of the Babylonian captivity

Why Babylonian captivity is important to us? Because you can see in this history deeper meaning. Descendants of Abraham, the beloved people of God, bearers of the truth of the barbarian tribes, immersed in the darkness of idolatry, themselves become idolaters. And it angered God. So angered that people surrenders to mock those he had to enlighten, to whom it must have been an example. Israel did not meet expectations, and the Lord departs from it. Once unified kingdom splits into two - Israel and Judah. Israel was conquered by the Assyrians in 722 BC, Judah also suffered repeated devastation and destruction. Jerusalem and the Temple destroyed in 586 BC. Finally, the same city and the second temple destroyed in 70 AC by Roman legionaries.

Lord through the prophets repeatedly said that the prisoner is over seventy years. (Ier.25 11, 12 Ier.29 10 Dan.9: 2). It just happened. In the year 539 BC Cyrus conquered Babylon and a year later issued a decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple, which took nearly twenty years.

Some commentators are inclined to believe that the prisoner began with the final destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC and ended in 516 BC, when the temple was built. Others are of the opinion that the prisoner began in 606, when for the first time Jerusalem was captured by the king of Babylon, the Temple plundered and imposed a tribute to the Jewish people. The d+ate is the end of the Babylonian captivity was 536 year - the second year of the return from Babylon, when the Jews laid the foundation of the Temple in Jerusalem. It's easy to justify, because only free people can build a temple to their God, therefore, has already captured over, and already free from the captivity of the people to build temples.

Jews were betrayed into the hands of their enemies, and at the end of seventy years of Babylonian captivity came to an end. But if people are freed from all the enemies? Has it become a beacon of Truth? No. At the same time, in the 30th chapter of the book of the prophet Jeremiah says:

" I will bring again the captivity of my people " (Jeremiah 30: 3)

in addition to this it's said that King David will be restored:

" But they shall serve the LORD their God, and David their king, whom I will raise up unto them ." (Jeremiah 30: 9)

and the people "will live quietly and peacefully" and will "destroy all the nations," among which was scattered Jewish people. And most importantly, "in the last days ye shall consider it."

" The fierce anger of the LORD shall not return, until he have done it, and until he have performed the intents of his heart: in the latter days ye shall consider it. " (Jeremiah 30: 24).

Now we see some of these promises are not fulfilled. So there is a reason to believe that the Babylonian captivity, in addition to direct, has a hidden, deeper meaning. Partly confirms our assumption and the fact that even in the New Testament used the image of Babylon, although by this time the city of Babylon has long been in ruins. That is, Babylon became a symbol. As mentioned earlier, Jerusalem became the image of the Kingdom of Heaven, but Babylon began to mean its opposite - the sinner and the material world. And then the destruction of Babylon and release from Babylonian captivity in a global sense can mean the destruction of the sinful world, the establishment of the kingdom of the saints.

If it is so, then we can try to find the terms of the end of times, starting from the date of commencement of the Babylonian captivity.

Calculation of symbolic Babylonian captivity

The year consists of twelve months. If we assume that the prophetic month is 3.5 calendar years (universal factor), the prophetic year is equal to forty-two-year calendar. In this case, the prophetic seventy years is a 2940 calendar years. Putting aside this period of 606 BC - The start time of the Babylonian captivity - we get 2334. That confirms year obtained by the first method.

So, the second method of calculation:

2) 606 BC+ 2940 years (70 * (12 * 3.5)) = 2334.

Method number three

The third method of calculation of the end of time is based on the vision of the prophet Daniel of the 2300 evenings and mornings (Dan. 8: 13-14).

Daniel had a vision, which was then explained in part by the Angel. It was said of a certain period in 2300 days:

" Then I heard one saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain saint which spake, How long shall be the vision concerning the daily sacrifice, and the transgression of desolation, to give both the sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot? And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed. "(Daniel 8: 13-14)

Some commentators attribute this vision to the time of the struggle of ancient Greece and Rome. Perhaps there is some truth in the Bible as the Old Testament type of event repeatedly coming events of the New Testament stories. Besides it's necessary to pay attention to rather mystery words:

" Understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end shall be the vision. " (Daniel 8:17)

" And the vision of the evening and the morning which was told is true: wherefore shut thou up the vision; for it shall be for many days. "(Daniel 8:26)

Some commentators attribute this prophecy to cruel Syrian king Antiochus Epiphanes, who is often compared with the Antichrist future. Such historical parallels in recent years of the Old Testament period, with the last years of the New Testament period, it's possible, as the events of Old Testament history, the inverse image of the events of the New Testament.

We can assume that the 2300 days apart, in fact, refer to the 2300 days of a particularly violent godless period before the very end of history, and may have some prophetic significance - like the symbolism of the Babylonian captivity. Can these figures indicate the number of years? We don't undertake to assert this. But if this were so, then one would assume that 2,300 years may have prophetic significance. Pay attention to the 34th year of our Lord, who became the year Death on the Cross, the Resurrection and Ascension of the Savior.

Luke says that Jesus began his work when he was 30 years old (Luk.3 23). And from stories of St. John the Divine, we learn that Jesus three times attended the feast of Easter in Jerusalem. And before he took fourth Easter crucifixion. " Preaching mostly in the Galilee, the Lord traveled to Jerusalem, that is in Judah, for all the major holidays. From these journeys St.John takes mainly of events narrated in speech from the Lord. Such travels to Jerusalem for the feast of the Passover, as seen in the Gospel of John, there were only three, and before the fourth Passover of His public ministry, the Lord accepted death on the cross. From this it follows that the public ministry of the Lord lasted about three and a half years, and he lived on earth about thirty-three and a half years "[7]

That is, Jesus was the 34th year.

We must remember that in the book of Genesis when they were talking about the creation of the world in six days, image of evenings and mornings was used, in that order. A modern interpretation of the Scriptures clearly indicate that in Genesis it wasn't about the other day, but some long periods. So here, if we assume that the 2300 evenings and mornings are not days, but years, postponing this period of the year Death on the Cross, the Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ, we will find the time of his next coming to our earth.

3) 34 year + 2300 years = 2334

Method number four

The fourth method of calculating the date of the end of time is different from all the others, and, we think, it should be considered as basic. And there are reasons for that which will be discussed later.

Unlike previous methods of calculating the least, so to speak, is less numerological and based onaccomplished events in human history. That's why the proposed method should be considered very carefully.

Here we rely on the earlier results of date of the Millennium reign of the saints with Christ, look at Daniel's prophecy of the " seventy-sevens "end of the Old Testament period of history and correlate it with the end time of the New Testament period of history.

To begin with, let's consider the Old Testament prophecy of the " seventy weeks ":

" Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.

Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.

And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.

And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate. " (Daniel 9: 24-27)

This prophecy was given to Daniel, who was away from home. Having been removed by Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon, he didn't return to Jerusalem and died in exile. Virtually all commentators agree that it meant the commandment to restore and rebuild of Jerusalem, given by the Persian king Artaxerxes I (465-424 BC) in 457 BC (Neh. 2, 1-17) from which it needs to count 490 years - " seventy weeks . " Some tend to think that we have in mind the second decree of Artaxerxes dynasty Archaemenidae (453 BC), from which you want to count the sixty nine weeks of years, or 483 years " before Christ Lord", that is, before the appearance of Christ to the people, or the baptism of His by John [8].

Let's note that when the Bible speaks of weeks, the word " Week "(Dan.10: 2.3) is used, and only once - and that in this prophecy - it refers to" sevens ", that is, the seven-year spans.

After the decision to rebuild Jerusalem it took about 50 years to rebuild Jerusalem. But the meaning of the prophecies set forth in the very first verse, which says that after 490 years after the decree of Artaxerxes I " Anointed will be most holy "- a reference to the thirty-third year AC, when Christ walked the 34th year.

And if all that is said about the seventy weeks to refer exclusively to the end of the Old Testament of the world, we don't quite understand the meaning of the last lines of " half weeks: an end to sacrifice and offering, and on the wing of the sanctuary is the abomination of desolation . " It's not clear, since Jesus himself tells students about the time of His second coming, as a sign of approaching that time indicates the ' abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet "(Matthew 24: 15 Mar.13: 14).

That is, the Lord Himself says about this part of the prophecy of Daniel, as not come true yet, which belongs to the last days. And indeed, the Antichrist will trample the earth 3.5 years (half sevens ), while during the end of the world of the Old Testament didn't happen. The temple was really destroyed, but only thirty-six years old - in the seventieth year of BC. It's very likely that whole prophecy of the " seventy weeks " or part of it we can refer to as the end of the Old Testament, as to the end of the New Testament period of world history.

Our study of the millennial reign of the saints with Christ gives us a point from which to count the " little season "when" Satan will be released from prison ".And that's, how we determined, 1844. We can assume that from that date also could be postponed "seventy weeks" (490 years). And if the Old Testament prophecy is measured from the decree to rebuild Jerusalem, then in the New Testament period, we are seeing something similar. March 21, 1844 under pressure from Britain, Turkey, which owned at that time Palestine takes the Edict of Toleration, which allowed the Jews after centuries of exile again settles in the territory of Jerusalem. That is, in 1844 playing in the New Testament time point similar to the reference point of the Old Testament " seventy weeks " . There - " the commandment to restore and build Jerusalem "here -" Edict of Toleration ", which allowed Jews to settle in the territory of Jerusalem.

Taking 1844 for a pivotal point and finding similarities in the two global historical periods, we can assume that the " seventy weeks "are also applicable to the end of the New Testament period of history. So we get another way of calculating the date of the end of the world:

4) 1844 + 490 years = 2334

And it seems that the end of the New Testament period is indicate by prophetic lines:

" And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate . " (Daniel 9:27)

Summary

To sum up, we can say that the four methods of calculation indicate 2334 year as the time of the second coming of Christ or the end time of human history. A first method further indicates 2331 as the year for the arrival of the Antichrist to his power.

The method of calculating the date of the arrival of the Antichrist:

a) 666 * 3.5 = 2331

Four ways of calculating the date of the end of history.

1) 3.5 * 666 = 2331 year 2331 +3.5 years = 2334

2) 606 BC + 2940 years (70 * (12 * 3.5)) = 2334.

3) 34 AC + 2300 years = 2334 AD

4) 1844 + 490 years = 2334

In addition, there is another interesting calculus, the meaning of which is not understood since it's not tied to any known prophecy. Therefore, we leave it out of our study. Nevertheless, we mention it.

2334 = 3000 - 666

It can be assumed that it meant 666 BC, from which three thousand years delayed: if to 666 BC we will add 3,000 years, we'll get 2334. 666th BC wasn't highlighted by historians. We can only say that it was the rule of maybe very wicked king of Judah - Manasseh. He indulged in pagan cults and brought the wrath of God upon the Jewish people (4 Kings. 21 1-18). As it was mentioned earlier, wickedness has come before it in all parts of the Temple put altars " the host of heaven , "and in the Temple established idol Astarte:

" And he built altars in the house of the LORD, of which the LORD said, In Jerusalem will I put my name. And he built altars for all the host of heaven in the two courts of the house of the LORD. And he made his son pass through the fire, and observed times, and used enchantments, and dealt with familiar spirits and wizards: he wrought much wickedness in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger. And he set a graven image of the grove that he had made in the house, of which the LORD said to David, and to Solomon his son, In this house, and in Jerusalem, which I have chosen out of all tribes of Israel, will I put my name for ever... "(4 Kings. 21 : 4-7)

In what year did this happen, historians unknown.

What is year, still?

Modern chronology has been applied only from the sixth century, when Pope John I commissioned the monk Dionysius Small spend calendar calculations. In particular, it was decided to abandon the accepted chronology then "Diocletian era." As a starting point it was assumed beginning of the reign of the Roman Emperor Diocletian - one of the most violent persecutors of Christians. It was natural desire to replace it with another date - Christmas. Dionysius drew all the sources available to him - and there were not too many - and calculated that the 248 year era of Diocletian must match the year 532 after Christ. Calculation of Dionysius raised doubts in the West until the XV century, and in the Byzantine Empire and weren't recognized as canonical. Disputes about the date of the birth of Christ continued in Constantinople to the XIV century. Not once Dionysius tried to correct, and is now considered that the calculations of Dionysius inaccurate. Or, in other words, it's believed - he made a mistake in his calculations for several years.

It relies mainly on the Scaliger chronology, according to which King Herod died in 4 BC. That is, four years before the date calculated by Dionysius of the Nativity. As a result, the Church has agreed it to be the date of the Nativity for 3-4 years earlier, and the date of His Death on the Cross to determine not the 34th year, but the 30th year AD .

All this leads to the fact that this offset can be used for fraud, so to speak, the legitimation of antichrist. After all, the difference between the time of the Second Coming of Christ and the enthronement of the Antichrist is 3.5 years. And certain commentators in 2331 AD may called 2334 as the year of the Nativity.

In this sense, vulnerable is our third method of calculating the date of the end of human history (2300 + 34), which is the reason why even want to remove, but after it was decided to leave with the caveat that it can be omitted. And what was originally three methods of calculation: two of which are tied to historical events and doesn't depend on the change in the date of Christmas. The first method clearly points to 2331 as the year associated with the Antichrist. But confusion can still occur - it's likely to give rise to. It's necessary to know, and don't rely only on one or another of the calculus, but look, first of all, to the " signs of the times "and such signs not to be deceived.

So we know that the Antichrist will be the ruler of the earth, and the kingdom will build on earth - with cards or bar codes, or even some kind of new system of distribution of wealth. He will be crowned, and most likely in Jerusalem so as not accepting Christ, there will still be a certain expect a ruler-Moshiach. To them he will come.

The coming of Christ will be the same in glory, visible to all people of the earth. And soon it will be real, not figurative, transformation of the material world, combined with the real, not figurative, resurrection of all the dead before, and the real court.

Second Coming of Christ would be difficult to confuse with the advent of the Antichrist. Nevertheless, we are aware of the dangers bears confuses the date of the birth of Christ, and we can't fail to mention this.

Risky forecast

If 2331 is the date of the arrival of the Antichrist to power, and the date of the end of his reign is 2334, then we can try to identify some of the more precise time intervals. After all, to get to these two dates (provided that the rule will be three and a half years) is possible if the first event will be held in the first half of the year 2331, and the second will be in the second half of the 2334.

In Daniel there are two numbers that are associated with the end of the reign of the Antichrist: 1290 and 1335 days.

" And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days. Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days. "(Daniel 12: 11-12)

3.5 years are 1278 days, but the period for Daniel is almost two months longer (in 1290 or even 1335 days). Because our conditions are compressed more about two months, that is, to withstand the conditions were (2331g. - 2334), the first event to be held in January-April 2331, and the second - in September-December 2334.

How can we not remember here the words of the Savior said about the rise to power of the Antichrist:

"P ray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day: "(Matthew 24: 20).

It's not clear whether it means that the flight doesn't happen in the winter, or that the possible arrival of the Antichrist to power in the winter, or something else. If we assume that we have in mind during the late winter - early spring, the frame narrowed even more. About it already March - April 2331 and November - December 2334. Although to be more precise and to postpone the date of the first day of spring, it's time frame: March 1 - May 3, for the first event and 29 October - 31 December for the second event. Counting period in 1335 days, we take into account the fact that 2332 is a leap year.

Our assumptions don't conflict with the words of the Savior that the " day and hour no one knows . " After all, we're here I date timeframe reign of the Antichrist, based on Daniel's prophecy of the 1335 days. In addition, we can't and try not to call the day and the more hour of Christ's coming. And as it was mentioned earlier, the date of the end of the world, at least approximately, will be possible to calculate at least three and a half years before its occurrence: adding 1290 or 1335 days to the date of accession of the Antichrist. Will be the date of breach of calculus at all, or it's necessary to accept that the assertion of Christ could refer only to the time when he uttered it, or that it allows the opportunity to learn this date sometime in the future?

Today we can'ts ay anything, and everything that was already said should be considered only as an analytical prediction that, in our opinion, may indicate the year of arrival of the Antichrist and the end of the year in human history. But with respect to the month or day (and more than an hour), the second coming of Christ, this theory can't tell anything certain. Since no one knows when the Antichrist is coming, and will end be immediately after 1335 days. That's why we stay on the assumption that the first event is likely to occur in the first four months of 2331, and to pray that this won't happen in the winter (Matt. 24:20).

Calendar for the next three centuries

Now, when we can assume the presence of specific historical framework millennial reign of the saints with Christ (843 - 1843), and duration of " short time ", when Satan, according to John, to be released from the abyss (490 years, counted from 1844), it becomes easier to understand the prophetic image of an open book with seven prints (6-11 Chap. Revelation.)

If our assumption is true, and the end of the New Testament period of history, echoing the " seventy weeks "of the Old Testament period, has its final in 490 years, the seven prints of the prophetic books can symbolize the seven periods of 70 years each one. The last period so eventful, that it, in turn, is divided into seven decades, described by seven sounding angels.

It's noteworthy that we have an opportunity to make sure our assumptions are correct as far as we're living in the period of the Third Print.

Removal of the first print : 1844-1914

Comes " white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer. " (Revelation. 6: 2).

At this time, Satan is released, and it fills confidence in quick victory, establishing a "new world order". Comes a series of revolutions, and new heretical teachings, is a surge of scientific discoveries that marked the beginning of the so-called scientific and technological revolution (STR). All this is changing the face of human civilization and creates, among other things, the technical capabilities to create electronic concentration camp of the kingdom of the Antichrist. Exit Satan heralded as a "second coming." At the very least, the new "prophets" are apologists who still believe in the fact that at this time, " God came to earth invisibly "(the study of Adventists and Jehovah's Witnesses).

It should be noted that almost all the interpreters of the Apocalypse in the rider see the Word of God, but we must pay attention to the reader that it's spoken of, " came out as victorious . " And if our theory is correct, and the image of an open book with seven seals describes the events of the " little season ", the white rider can't be a word, or the power of God, but it shows something else.

Removal of the second print : 1914-1984

Comes " another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword. " (Revelation. 6: 4)

This time, two of the bloodiest wars in human history, called the world, which have killed more people than in all previous wars.

Apart from the two world wars in this period there was an outbreak of godless activity comparable to the persecution of Christians in ancient times. That has been shown to Daniel in a way of a bear who ate a lot of meat. (Daniel 7: 5).

Removal of the third print : 1984 - 2054

Comes " black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine " (Rev.6: 5.6).

In June 14, 1985 the Schengen Agreement is signed on the abolition of visa and passport control at the borders of several countries of the European Union (between Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, France and Germany). In 1986 there was accepted the Single European Act, aimed to create a single market in Europe in the period up to December 31, 1992. Started the development of the Treaty on European Union, which was later accepted in Maastricht. The Treaty establishes the concept of citizenship of the European Union. In 1995, 75 participants formed the GATT World Trade Organization (WTO). There is an increasing of globalization processes.

Collapse of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, served seventy years only counterbalance the capitalist system. As a result, a mutation of capitalism began. There are signs of the beginning of the collapse of the global 500-year-old civilization project "Modern".

Next is the area of things not opened, the area of forecasts and assumptions. It remains incomprehensible to the very image of a rider on a black horse. Many interpreters of the Apocalypse suggest that the image of a rider with a measure (weights) in hand, in particular, means an increase in food prices and the global economic power plan. Since it's apocalyptic imagery, we can assume that this means more economic power godless powers, or an attempt to bring the kingdom of the Antichrist purely economic and political measures.

We can assume that after the anti-Christian forces will beconvinced that a purely political and economic means to arrange the kingdom of the Antichrist on earth doesn't work, fools will provoke a third world war.

Removal of the fourth print : 2054-2124

Comes " pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth. " (Rev.6: 8)

It looks like the beginning of a global or a third world war. The fourth part of the earth - it's likely the Eurasian continent. The war will be against Russia. About elders say and logic. Russia is the main carrier of orthodoxy, and the main obstacle to the coming of the Antichrist.

However, the yield of the pale rider whose name is death means more than only one, albeit a world war. As we shall see later, the destructive processes will only increase, and chaos - to grow. Although in the future can't be brief periods of relative calm, which will be replaced by an even more bloody wars and general destabilization. That's why the rider on the pale horse , the fourth and last in a series of riders, gives a statement to the finals of human history, or death. God didn't create death, but death is a consequence of sin.

" Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it's finished, bringeth forth death " . (James 1:15)

" by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. " (Rom. 5:12)

"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord ." (Rom. 6:23)

The world is becoming more and more attached to sin, and the consequence is the death of humanity. But this death is not a one-stage, but more reminiscent of the agony that will last for about 280 years: the fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh prints of the prophetic books.

Removal of the fifth seal : 2124-2194

" And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled. " (Rev. 6: 9-11)

We can assume that during the opening of the fifth seal a third flash godless activity happens that is shown to Daniel in the image of leopard - of four, must occur in the New Testament period.

" After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it."( Daniel 7: 6)

Will this outbreak be localized in a particular state, or the persecution of Christians held all over the ground, or will some other way, we don't undertake to predict. It's not clear what are the four heads of the beast, and the four wings of bird, and what means " the power given to him . "

Removal of the sixth seal : 2194 -2264

" And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. And the heaven departed as a scroll when it's rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. " (Rev.6: 12-14).

These lines can be interpreted as follows: after the third flash godless activity shown in the image of Daniel leopard or a lynx, the wickedness of the human race " abound measure of iniquity , "and the world will start to have finally crumble. Or, in other words, the great and terrible signs show people that human history is coming to the end. So we can imagine the repetition of star rain in 12.11.1833 in November 2196 (this star rain repeats every 33 years).

Presumably, before that - judging by the text in the 2194m or 2195m - there will be a strong earthquake destroying many cities. However, maybe it's not about a particular earthquake, but all the multitude of earthquakes all over the earth, and a variety of natural disasters that will occur in this period and will be significantly more likely than before.

When removing the seventh seal " there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets. "(Revelation. 8: 1-2)

The first angel sounded: 2264-2274 "... and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up . "(Rev.8 7).

It's hard to say what is it: a disaster, cataclysm or war? But judging by the fact that this image is characterized by a whole decade after all, probably it's the war. It's also known that before the reign of the Antichrist there will be the war and turmoil.

The second angel sounded: 2274-2284 "... as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood; And the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died; and the third part of the ships were destroyed. "(Rev.8: 8.9)

There is a prophecy foretells the death of America, Australia and southern China from the waters of the ocean. It can be assumed, in this decade, the Earth will survive the encounter with the "small cosmic body" - an asteroid or comet. At least, the image of a flaming mountain falling into the sea is very reminiscent of the fall of the cosmic body into the ocean.

The third angel sounded : 2284-2294 "... and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters; And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter. "(Rev.8: 10,11)

This image would be interpreted unambiguously as falling of space body on the ground, if in the previous passage, such an event hasn't been described as a burning mountain falling into the sea. Help in the interpretation of the events that will occur in the third pipe can excerpt from the third book of Ezra, which says about a "third pipe":

"... after the third trumpet that the sun shall suddenly shine again in the night, and the moon thrice in the day: And blood shall drop out of wood, and the stone shall give his voice, and the people shall be troubled: And even he shall rule, whom they look not for that dwell upon the earth, and the fowls shall take their flight away together. And the Sodomitish sea shall cast out fish, and make a noise in the night, which many have not known: but they shall all hear the voice thereof. There shall be a confusion also in many places, and the fire shall be oft sent out again, and the wild beasts shall change their places, and menstruous women shall bring forth monsters: And salt waters shall be found in the sweet, and all friends shall destroy one another; then shall wit hide itself, and understanding withdraw itself into his secret chamber". (3 Ezra. 5: 4-9)

John and Ezra have common features:

a) falling star that looks like a candle (John), a convergence of many lights from heaven (Ezra)

b) water becomes bitter and deadly to humans (John), poisoning of water with salts (Ezra).

In addition, outbreaks like the sun in the night three times a day, plus a woman giving birth to mutants (monsters). All this looks like a missile, nuclear explosions, radiation and its effects.

And the fourth angel sounded: 2294-2304 "... the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars; so as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise " . (Revelation. 8:12).

We can assume that after a cosmic catastrophe and extended nuclear conflict earth not less than ten years will be waiting for the effect of "nuclear winter."

And the fifth angel sounded: 2304 -2314 " And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit. And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit. And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power. And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads. And to them it was given that they should not kill them, but that they should be tormented five months: and their torment was as the torment of a scorpion, when he striketh a man. And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them. And the shapes of the locusts were like unto horses prepared unto battle; and on their heads were as it were crowns like gold, and their faces were as the faces of men. And they had hair as the hair of women, and their teeth were as the teeth of lions. And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron; and the sound of their wings was as the sound of chariots of many horses running to battle. And they had tails like unto scorpions, and there were stings in their tails: and their power was to hurt men five months. And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon. " (Revelation. 9: 1-11)

Today it's difficult to judge what is at stake. Perhaps this is some kind of machine, perhaps birth of the abyss.

And the sixth angel sounded: 2314 -2324 " And the number of the army of the horsemen were two hundred thousand thousand: and I heard the number of them. And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of the horses were as the heads of lions; and out of their mouths issued fire and smoke and brimstone. By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone, which issued out of their mouths. For their power is in their mouth, and in their tails: for their tails were like unto serpents, and had heads, and with them they do hurt " (Revelation. 9: 16-19)

It still looks more like a military machine. More than two thousand years ago, the same tanks could be depicted in this way. This vision tells us about continuing war, that should be before the last, " the fourth kingdom of the beast . "

And the seventh angel sounded: 2324 - 2334 .. Two prophets go and preach (Revelation 11: 3-11), and then the big earthquake in which 7,000 people are killed (Rev 11: 13). And in the last 3.5 years the Antichrist comes to power for 3.5 years (Chapter 13) .. That's all! Then - justice and retribution. " and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. "(Revelation 11: 15)

P.S. When will this paper was written, my wife paid attention to such mundane thing that we face every day, see all the time - at the digital clock. Or rather that when it reaches 23:59 figures always set to zero, and it looks like a year 2359. I don't know how this conclusion is appropriate to this work, however, it seemed to me important that we calculated earlier millennium (from 843 in 1843), if we apply to it the method of electronic watches, in fact, marks a light day (8:43 to 18:43).

And as in the parable about the wise and foolish virgins, the coming of the Bridegroom came at midnight:

" And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. " (Matt. 25: 6)

First centuries of Christianity were dark, as they were filled with persecution. It was only after the third hour of the night, when some signs begin to sing the first roosters, heralding the beginning of the morning, there is a first recognition of Christianity by Saint Constantine (fourth century).

From nine in the morning (8:43) to seven in the evening (18:43), the world lives in the light of the teachings of Christ. But here is approaching of evening and night. In our time, in which we live, the sun is not quite disappeared, but the twilight is gathering.

Why is the year of the end of human history will not happen at this time at midnight? Maybe because God loves us and wants to reduce our suffering as much as 25 minutes or, if it's translated into human calendar - a quarter of century - 25 years. Cause it's written:

" And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened. " (Matthew 24: 22)

Sources:

1. "The Bible of Holy Scripture " (3m ) // reprint Savvino Storozhevsky Monastery Design: "Rule of Faith" M ., 1999

2 . "The Bible of scripture of the Old and New Testament " canonical in Russian translation with parallel passages , 1991

3. "Code of patristic views on the duration of the reign of the Antichrist " I. Nilsky //reprint . 1889 "Apocalypse in interpretive and didactic reading " M . Barsov , group of Holy Trinity- Saint Seraphim Diveevsky Convent "Skit ", 1993  

4. M .I. Rizhsky , " Biblical prophets and Bible prophecy ." M. , 1987 Political Literature Publishing House

5. Lopuhin AP "Explanatory Bible" Volume II Book of Kings http://golden-ship.ru/knigi/10/lopukhin_1-4kc.htm]

6. A . Young , "Introduction to the Old Testament "

7. New Testament and Psalms . Kommentarii.- M .: Lepta , 2002.- 992 p.

8. Archimandrite Nicephorus " Bible Encyclopedia" http://www.lib.eparhia-saratov.ru/books/13n/nikifor/encyclopedia/3491.html

Chapter VII

Opinion from another area

Until now, we have relied solely on biblical texts and prophecies, end of the world by examining the question from the religious side. Here we would like to show that in non-religious areas we can find some hints or scraps of knowledge, described here fit into the picture of the future. And it's, indeed, only hints that can't be understood without an overall picture of history as outlined in the previous chapters. However, the value of these observations is that they are taken from a completely different realm of human knowledge - from the sphere of trading.

And this is not surprising. After all, the religious model describes the global picture of the world, and if it's true, then we need to confirm the find, not only in the theological books. That is how the theory being tested. And for people with rational thinking, this argument may be decisive.

Turn our attention to the stock exchange theory. But since not many people are familiar with it, it is necessary to acquaint the reader with some terms and concepts.

Elliott Wave Theory

Any stock trader familiar with the Elliott Wave Theory. This theory has been created as a result of long-term observations of the behavior of prices on various exchanges RN Elliott (1871-1948), who in the behavior of prices revealed cyclical five waves and three waves of growth correction. After wave of growth should always be a wave of recoil, but for the first five waves of growth occurs (less than a rollback of growth), and in three waves of correction (zigzag-like downward) is the opposite. This scheme is easier to explain with a series of illustrations.

Fig. 1 five-wave model

Five rising waves (1,2,3,4,5) called impulse waves and three downward (A, B, C) ​​- wave correction or corrective waves. In turn, each wave composed of the same number of waves smaller level

Fig. 2, 3 Waves of lower level part of the wave of higher level

A global wave, in turn, is part of the further wave senior level.

Elliott discerned nine levels of waves from the smallest of bends on the hourly chart to the largest waves, which he was able to get from the data available at the time - a century long waves.

I must say that pure Elliott waves almost never occur. They are always distorted. Sometimes distorted beyond recognition, especially in the graphs low levels (minute, hour, day), and are shown in the global graphs.

In the analysis of the stock, there are two techniques:

a) Technical Analysis - Elliott Wave Theory;

b) Fundamental Analysis, claiming that the price is only affected by events, news, etc.

Both analysis techniques have their adherents and opponents. But no matter what technical analysis has been recognized and firmly entrenched in the language of economists and stockbrokers. If you listen to stock news, be sure to hear about the "levels of support", "resistance levels", "bounce rates", "breaking through the psychologically important levels", etc. It's all the elements of a set is technical analysis.

At the same time, the influence of news and events in the price, no doubt, there is. News will always distort the pricing picture. Yet after some news fluctuations in price are typically returned to the levels described by the theory of Elliott Wave.

Waves in other areas

It is interesting to note that anything remotely similar to the Elliott Wave is described by Lev Gumilev in his book "Ethnogenesis and the biosphere of the earth" when he speaks about the life of the ethnic group.

"Now we can say that the" starting point "ethnogenesis - the sudden appearance of a population of a certain number of people with drive and subpassionate; phase of recovery - a rapid increase in the number of passionary individuals as a result of any reproduction or incorporation; acme phase - the maximum number of people with drive; phase change of heart - a sharp decrease in their number and their displacement subpassionate; inertial phase - a slow decline in the number of individuals passionary; obscuration phase - almost complete replacement passionaries subpassionate that because of the nature of the warehouse or destroy ethnicity alone or do not have time to destroy it before the invasion of foreigners from outside. In the second case is a relic consisting of harmonious individuals and belongs to the biocenosis of the region inhabited by them as the top, the final stage"[1]

Fig. 4Waves of phases of ethnogenesis by L.N. Gumilev

However, Lev, gave clearly point correction, which in the case of ethnogenesis should look like the kind of drive flash just before the end (correctional wave B). However, in his books, he has repeatedly examples of such outbreaks leads and even gives his own definition - "regeneration phase."

"Phases of the ethnogenesis process-related facilitation of ethnic system (breakdown, inertia, and to a lesser extent obscuration) are frequently violated the inverse processes of ethnic regeneration. In this case, the initiative of social renewal, responding to emerging needs of ethnic dynamics, intercept those ethnic subsystem, which until then had been constrained by the presence of leading subetnosa or ethnic group. Only after the former leader cleanse the place can manifest itself forces suspends ethnic decline. "[2]

"Unaccustomed to mean curve manifestations of drive power like no line progress of the productive forces - exponential or the sine wave where rhythmically alternate ups and downs, repeating as the seasons or the symmetric cycloid biological development. The proposed curve is asymmetrical, discrete and anisotropic in the course of time. She is well known as cybernetics curve describing the combustion of the fire, an explosion of gunpowder warehouse and wilting leaves. We restrict ourselves to the first example.

Bonfire flared at one edge. Flame covers the branches around and quickly absorbs oxygen in the fire. The temperature is falling and the surrounding atmospheric oxygen rushes inside woodpile, causing the wood to break out again. After several outbreaks remain embers have cooled down and slowly turning into ashes. To repeat the process needs a new firewood and a new outbreak of fire. "[3]

Returning to the wave theory, it's interesting to read the article by David Warsh, which appeared in 1977 in the Forbes magazine, where the author, based on the research of Professor at Oxford University, Phelps Brown and Sheila Hopkins, shows a wave of millennial length.

In the graph below we can see at least a very rough, but gives a clear five-wave Elliott pattern reflection of price movements: five impulse waves, to be followed by three-wave correction (which there is not in the graph).

Here is how these waves and the upcoming correction are mentioned in the book "Full Course on the Elliott Wave Principle" [4]

Millennial wave from the depths of the Middle Ages

"It is not particularly difficult to collect data for the study of price movements over the past two years, but in the earlier period, we have to rely on less accurate statistics. Long-term price index compiled by Phelps Brown and Sheila Hopkins and supplemented by David Warsh, based on a simple "consumer basket" for the period from 950 to 1954. Combining the price chart Brown and Hopkins with the prices of industrial action since 1789, we have long-term picture for the last thousand years. 5 shows the approximate depth of the main segments of the Middle Ages to 1789. As the fifth wave from 1789, we held a straight line to depict, in particular, the length of the stock price, which we will discuss in the next section. Oddly enough, this schedule, though a very rough reflection of price movements, giving a clear five-wave Elliott pattern. Comparison of large price movements of history belongs to a vast period of commercial and industrial development over the centuries. Rome, whose great culture may coincide with the top of the previous wave of the Millennial, finally fell in 476 AC. For five hundred years later, during the subsequent bear market Millennial wave level, cognitive studies almost extinguished. Commercial Revolution (950- 1350 years) eventually gave impetus to the first wave of Pre-Millennial (sub- Millennium) wave level, which heralded the beginning of the Middle Ages. Alignment of prices from 1350 to 1520 forms a wave two and represents a "correction" for development in the Commercial Revolution.

Fig. 5 Millennial wave from deep centuries

The next period of price rises, the first sub-wave Chief (Grand) wave level of the third wave of Pre-Millennial level coincided with the capitalist revolution (1520-1640 years), and with the greatest period in English history, the era of Queen Elizabeth. Elizabeth I (1533- 1603 years) ascended the throne of England immediately after an exhausting war with France. The country was in poverty and despair, but before Elizabeth died, England was opposed to all regimes in Europe, has expanded its empire and became the most prosperous nation in the world. It was the age of Shakespeare (Shakespeare), Martin Luther (Martin Luther), Drake (Drake) and Raleigh (Raleigh), indeed, an outstanding era in world history. The business grew and prices rose in this period of creative splendor and luxury. By 1650, prices reached the top, lining for the formation of two main sub-wave wave level. The third sub-wave the wave is a wave in Pre-millennial level, as it turned out, began to commodity prices around since 1760, in contrast to our expected period for the stock market in the region of 1770-1790, which we labeled "1789" and start from market data. However, as pointed out by the study of Gertrude Sherk in April and May 1977 graduates magazines Cycles, movements in commodity prices tend to outperform similar movements in stock prices tend to be about a decade. Two calculated dates considered with this in mind, the same is extremely accurate. This third wave of the rising wave of the Main level coincides with a sharp increase in productivity generated by the Industrial Revolution (1750- 1850 years), and corresponds to the emergence of the United States as a world power.

Elliott logic suggests that the main wave level since 1789 and up to the present time and should follow and precede the other waves in the current model of Elliott (waves in other areas of human activity), with the usual relations in time and amplitude. If the 200-year wave of the Main wave level has almost completed its entire path, then it will be adjusted in three waves Supercycle (corrective waves A, B, C), which will reach one or two centuries. It's hard to comprehend the state of slow growth in the world economy for such a long period, but such the possibility can't be excluded. Such frank allusion to the long-term challenges do not rule out that the engineering science will keep pace that may develop in the public regard. The Elliott Wave Principle - it is the law of probability and relative levels, and not a predictor of the exact terms. Nevertheless, the current Superuroven (V) may declare an economic and social stagnation or recession in important areas ". [4]

On the basis of the Elliott Wave Theory predicted correction, that is fall, which will last one or two centuries. However, it was written back in 1977m, when the world economy was in a stage of growth, and it was extremely difficult to imagine: what could cause such a correction. The author doesn't speak of the completion of the development, minimized economic indicators, crisis, recession, it would be more correct, but uses the term cautious - "a state of slow growth." Although if you look at the graph (see Fig. 6)

Figure 6

it becomes clear that after the peak of the fifth wave is not "slow development", but a real folding, drop, a series of crises - but with a splash of corrective (wave B).

If in 1977 to predict the folding of the growth of the world economy has been difficult, although such predictions, as we have seen, appeared, today we can say with confidence that the global economy has passed the peak of its development and entered a period of recession. Peak performance on many indices were in the beginning of the XXI century, that can speak about reaching the end of the fifth wave of the millennial level, followed by a correction of approximately 300 years. This duration correction is closer to the wave graphics than the correction in 1-2 century. If you look at the chart, you will see that this is so. Although, of course, the fall can be very sharp, because, as mentioned earlier, pure Elliott wave pattern is not found. It was somehow distorted.

Fig. 7 Correlation of millennial wave and the forthcoming correction

We could agree with a careful evaluation of the authors that the global correction will last one or two centuries, if we didn't have a result of the study of the prophecies of more accurate data length of this recession, which began in 2006 with the mortgage meltdown in the United States that provoked the global financial crisis in 2007-2008, after which the world economy hasn't recovered yet.

The Fifth Dimension

Application of wave analysis - or knowledge of stock trading - is an attempt to move in our study from a purely religious interpretations. In fact, it's an attempt to use as a religious and scientific view of the same phenomenon. However, the wave theory is taken from the economic sphere and not of fundamental science. What to do? Science today is in many ways still not consistent and not able to look at the world not from a materialist position. By and large, modern science has not yet reached the knowledge that, it turns out, can be obtained only from the original source in the form of Revelations. And "purely scientific" view of the question of interpretation of the future doesn't exist today, because science has no knowledge in this area.

At the same time a lot of people brought up by modern science, and therefore they can't perceive pure religious knowledge, referring them to the field of speculation, or, at best, considering the actualization of moral and ethical experience of mankind, but not the knowledge obtained from the Creator universe.

We also want to apply not only to religious people, but also to the secular, or to those who are just groping their way to God, and try to convey knowledge about the finiteness of human history up to them. To this end, we present in this study the theory of the fifth dimension, realizing that her controversial almost more controversy of the above theory, end of the world. However, providing this section of the caveat that this is only a warm-up of the mind, we will look at this topic: its religious nature, scientific research of the fifth dimension, and try to justify the possibility of its existence from a scientific point of view.

Why to do it? Modern man, absorbed from childhood scientific worldview, coming to faith, experience a conflict between religious knowledge and scientific view of the world, which we get from the school.

Where is heaven and hell, and what is Heaven? Is it possible to define them geographically, and if not, whether it is a "place" or something else? And what this area is, actually? Science doesn't give an answer to these questions, and doesn't even have an acceptable theory. Moreover, the science doesn't see the need for the construction of such theories, it is quite content with existing knowledge. However, as we shall see later, it is already advanced scientific thought feels failure of the existing four-dimensional model of the world and tries to explain, so far, though, in theory and mathematical formulas, the possibility of a fifth dimension.

In fact, staying within the scientific four dimensions, it is impossible to give answers to the above questions. Because in scientific thinking man there is a need to try to prove the possibility of the existence of a fifth dimension.

Science and religion go their own way in the world of knowledge and explanations. Science - by induction, from private to general - while religious thinking explains the world by deduction, that is, moving from the general to the particular.

So, what is Heaven? Where do angels live? Where is heaven and hell? Where they are located in the physical sense? In the Bible, the exact answer to these questions we don't find, though out of context it can be assumed that Heaven is somewhere above the ground. "God is in heaven." (Matthew 6: 9) The Holy Spirit as a dove descending on Jesus at His baptism by John the Baptist in the Jordan River (Mar.1: 10). Jesus ascends to heaven in front of students (Mar.16: 19 Luke 24:51), and promises that the same will be returned at the time of His second coming (Matf24 30 1Fess.1: 10). Angels "with go from heaven" (Matthew 28: 2), and others.

These mysterious Heaven can't be determined geographically. Lord Jesus Christ repeatedly said about himself: "I am not of this world" (John 8: 23). Thus indicating that the place from whence he came and whither gone, doesn't belong to this world. That is not to say that God is somewhere in space and indicate there hand. Because then we could talk about the distance to heaven and hell, or remoteness of God from us in kilometers. This is ridiculous. Jesus words - " I am not of this world "- told us that there is a world in which we live and the other world. He repeatedly talks about it, sometimes even opposing these worlds.

" And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world . " (John 8: 23)

" Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end. "(John 13: 1)

" And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise . " (1John.2: 16)

" Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. "(John.18 36)

" For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness . " (1 Corinthians 3:19)

" Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God . " (1Cor.2: 12)

In this world, the devil has a lot of freedom, called the " prince of this world "(John.12 31 John 14: 30, John 16: 11, Ephesians 2: 2), while the higher world, where Jesus goes after the body death, belongs entirely to God the Father, and access to it is closed to the devil and " his angels . " From the text of Scripture is known that some of the angels who followed Satan apostate, was denied the right to be close to God and banished from the other world (from Heaven) in our world.

" And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. "(Revelation 12: 7-9)

That is, we can see that between the two worlds, there is an insurmountable barrier which can't overcome the demons, although once, as the angels of God, they could move between worlds. This ability to remain in God's angels and saints is the phenomena and miraculous help of which there are many credible evidence.

Arguments of sectarians are absurd, they believe that Heaven is in some star system. If heaven could be defined by coordinates, God and His angels would be like travelers, constantly overcoming great distances to visit the earth. But this is something from the category of modern fiction, and is more suited to aliens, but not to the Creator of the universe and His servants.

It would be naive to try to find a direction in the sky, leading to Paradise or Heaven metaphysical, as well as attempt to define the place of exile of stars sinners - hell. We know from Scripture that it is a real place, located somewhere out of this world, because the name is " external . " About it there's something written,

" But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. "(Mat.8 12 Mat.22 13).

We won't make a special emphasis on what was once even our holy figured what the hell is in the bowels of the earth. Indeed, there is no specific guidance on its location in the Bible, and people sometimes thinking the fact that they couldn't understand.

Now our understanding of the world is based on scientific knowledge and theories, which, as we have said before, have not reached yet to understanding and explaining the more the higher realms, and have only just begun to describe the intangible manifestations of this world: electricity, magnetic and gravitational fields and etc. - Not knowing how long climb to the heights of spiritual world of the higher realms, and awareness of the Creator. But is irreconcilable between a science and religion? Is it possible, while remaining Orthodox Christian, not only to believe (taken for granted knowledge, which can't yet provide science), but also to know (to have sufficient understanding of the theory)? Yes, probably. Essential unity of science and religion is that they somehow describe in their own world order. The fundamental difference between them, as has been said above, is in approach. In addition, science can't yet fully overcome the delusion of materialism, and forced to simply deny as unscientific things which have not grown. While religious knowledge is more complete and accurate, although the presentation is often figuratively and even may seem primitive, uses the term as the people who lived more than 2,000 years ago.

Recognizing the data points, we can try to bring a scientific point of view to a more complete - religious, or, in other words, try to justify religious knowledge about the world scientifically.

Scientific four-dimensional world

Modern science knows four dimensions:

1) length,

2) width

3) height

4) time.

The first three are dimensional, and fourth is radically different, it's time. Time wasn't recognized as dimension immediately. Initially, people treated the three spatial dimensions, and all the changes occurring in nature, which are now associated with the time, It was something natural: the alternation of day and night, the movement of the planets, and similar changes in the nature, perceived as a matter of course. But today all that is beyond the scope of "science" is simply ignored in the same way as once overlook and ignore time. It began much later when time were assess and they were even able to justify its inextricable link with space.

In Newton's time the simplified representation existed of the structure of the world where matter, space and time, as it existed independently of each other. In a homogeneous infinite space was placed endless monotonous current time and independent matter. This model for the time worked, and made ​​all. But it's time and space with time have become a single space-time continuum - a system in which one can't be without the other. However, this system didn't yet inscribe matter and energy, the origin, the meaning and the inner essence of which remain unknown. Because matter and energy is still there, as it were separate and distinct from the already unified space-time.

The modern scientific view doesn't relates matter to a single space-time, but there is an understanding of the relationship of matter and energy. Einstein had done so much to advance the science forward, over the last forty years of his life trying to prove the unity of " disparate forces and energies , "working on the creation of a unified field theory. This theory doesn't exist yet, but already there is understanding the need to find this unity. It is hoped that soon will come the realization of unity of space-time and matter-energy. But if matter and energy are studied well enough, then such areas as consciousness, life, not to mention the soul and spiritual matters, remain largely outside the scientific attention.

Science has reached the awareness of the unity of space-time. Four dimensions have merged into a single continuum. However, the matter-energy is still there, as it's this unity. Meanwhile, it can be assumed that not only the energy and forces are united, not only the space-time continuum of form, but also the matter, energy, consciousness and the space-time are in a fundamental relationship.

Measurement of objectification

Primary compilation of scientific knowledge already gives some idea of where and how to find the fifth dimension. Roughly speaking, there is a relationship: Creator - thought - energy - matter. And this link, we can observe only in its final stages. Our world is the final stage, or one of the final stages of this ligament. We can call this system, as it were a manifestation of matter or objectification , to use a philosophical term.

Our world of four dimensions is at some distance from the center of the universe - the Creator - in the fifth dimension. Moreover, we must understand that the whole visible world is a stage of objectification. Matter, energy, and all the visible diversity of the world is the objectification of the creative intention of the Creator. The Creator is the origin of all things related to each other fundamental unity. In nature, there is an analogy to help understand this idea. Water has different states of aggregation: vapor (gas), water (liquid), ice (solid). Different physical characteristics elements are united in their essence. And the whole world: the space-time, matter, energy - all these outwardly similar entities are just different "aggregate states" plan of the Creator. And if for some reason we do not see the unity of disparate elements of the universe, as we move to the center - the Creator - in the fifth dimension, this fragmentation should be less noticeable, but a general fundamental unity is more obvious.

The difficulty for the thinker in the awareness, acceptance and study of the fifth dimension is what we like in our world are closed. We are endowed with the ability to move on their own only in the dimension of space, and not on their own can move in the time dimension, but we can't go beyond the test of the world to move to the fifth dimension. Rather, such an opportunity is available, but not for material bodies, but only for our souls after death, after the liberation of the flesh belonging to this world. Moreover, not even all the intangible essence can move to the center - to the Creator. The fallen angels had the opportunity, but were deprived of it because of their fall. Therefore, in this world, in this body, we can't physically examine the fifth dimension.

Science has come close to acknowledge the existence of a fifth dimension. It's only necessary to bring together disparate knowledge. The first step on this path becomes recognition of the unity of all elements of the visible world. And the recognition of the unity of science is gradually coming. So we know that matter and energy are interrelated (E = mc^2). It's known that matter can be converted into energy and vice versa. It's known that certain elements of matter are stable wave structure which for convenience is considered to be particles. Since the electron in the hydrogen atom doesn't have a clearly defined place in space actually representing something "smeared" in orbit around the nucleus.

Something similar to the physical analogy of objectification of matter we can see by comparing the physical properties of radiation of different wavelengths.

Name Length Unit

1 radio 1 * 10 4 -1 × 10 1 m eters

2 FM wave 1 10 * 1 - * 1 10 2 meters

3 infrared 1 × 10 -3 - 8 x 10 -7 meters

4 visible spectrum of 8 x 10 -7 -4 × 10 -7 meters

5 ultraviolet wave 4 * 10 -7 - 1 × 10 -8 m eters

6 X-rays 1 * 10 -7 - 1 × 10 -14 and less meters

7 gamma radiation 1 * 10 -10 m or less

With decreasing of wavelength of the radiation it becomes closer and closer to the materiality: wave increasingly exhibits particle properties. Thus, considering the properties of the radiation with a longer wavelength, the researchers observed wave properties in pure form. However, as the wavelength decreases, the radiation is increasingly behaves like a stream of particles. So in studying the properties of light, researchers are faced with the duality or dualism: in different experiments detects light as wave and particle properties. Therefore considered to be a wave of light, but as it consisted of portions of the energy quanta. The smaller the wavelength, the less the wave properties and more properties of particles. Quanta - amount of energy - as if condensed, more and more becoming like particles. And we should understand that it is not accidental likeness. And now the most shortwave - gamma rays - behaves like a stream of particles, although the pseudo-particles aren't independent, but are related to the originating force (flow) and are referred to as gamma rays.

We can assume that by continuing this process experimentally by reducing the wavelength, whether science has the chance, in the end it was possible to get an independent particle that exists regardless of the breed its flow: create matter out of energy. This doesn't contradict scientific knowledge. In 1924, French physicist Louis de Broglie suggested that the wave properties inherent in all material objects. The wavelength is determined by the formula: L = h / mv, where h- Planck's constant, m-mass, v-speed. For bodies of significant mass wave length becomes so small that there was no way to detect the wave properties of modern physics can't offer, but the elementary particles at low speeds the wave properties quite distinct.

That is, we can see how to end the process of objectification. We have been given a very definite clue that matter is just a more complex form of objectification after the energy and emissions.

Matter and energy - visible manifestations of objectification - is that science can fix by the instruments, with which science can experiment, so they are the most studied. So today science knows that the matter is not something established once and for all: the building blocks of atoms are not, or part of the constructor, which later are constantly being built different elements of the visible world. Matter can arise from energy and can move back into the energy state.

And if matter and energy are investigated, the mind and the soul of man - as a more subtle states of objectification - remain outside the scope of scientific attention.

We see no connection of thought and matter, but can observe the relationship of energy and matter, as most close stating to objectification. However, thought, consciousness, soul are a higher, or more subtle manifestations of objectification. Between them there is a fundamental unity, a natural relationship. This explains the possibility of the influence of thoughts on subjects, influence of thoughts on the state of nature, and much more that is subject to the saints.

Other worlds in the fifth dimension

The Fifth Dimension is a measurement of all manifestations of the material world. Center or the beginning is a God who created the world once: space and time. That is, in the Center of the Universe - In God - there was once concentrated all space, all time and all things are full of plans. That's why God has all the integrity of knowledge about all the diversity of the world from its beginning to the end.

Once there was the creation of the world. To explain the origin of the world science we use the Big Bang theory. It's unclear how the explosion - the power of destruction - can create something - and create something so complex that has not even the strength to create the human mind. It's assumed that there was a certain initial clot matter. Then it's unknown how and why the Big Bang happened this initial bunch of matter, and matter are beginning to scatter over the entire space of the universe.

In some sense, an act of God's creation can be likened to the Big Bang, of course, just as the apparent similarity to the hypothetical bystander. After all, we understand that no explosion occurred and the dispersion of matter, and the creation of worlds out of nothing. However, we say, "out of nothing", because I do not know from which the world was created. We must understand that the process of creation of the world was going to fifth-dimensional universe. And if the observer is in our world, he would have seen the emergence of the variety of stars and planets in our material world in a moment. But if a hypothetical observer is outside the world we are - that is, be able to look at our universe from the side - then, perhaps, he could see what looked like a big bang, as a manifestation of (objectification) of matter, extending in all directions from the Creative beginning. But again, that this similarity only in form but not in essence, nothing more than a distant analogy is the Big Bang for a hypothetical external observer, who would have seen the spread of matter from the center. And we understand the failure of a scientific theory that can't explain the emergence of not only the mind, life, and even the variety of material objects, while the theory of creation is devoid of such shortcomings.

Stages of objectification

The beginning and the center of the universe is the Creator, initially manifested as the Three Persons of the One Father, the Son and the Spirit.

Next Trinity conceives, observes and creates all the diversity of the universe. Farther from the center of the source to the fifth dimension, the more concrete and manifest are space, time, matter. Thought of the Creator as it is clothed in physicality. As the idea of ​​objectification increasingly manifest, acquiring features recognizable in the world.

We must assume that objectification doesn't happen smoothly, and like the manifestation of material properties in the emissions with decreasing wavelength - like the quantization. This can be represented as follows: at a certain degree of objectification occurs first world, separated from God, barely noticeable obstacle, then, as we move along the fifth dimension, the next - the more specific the world - and the barrier separating it from the previous, longer. And so on, until, after passing a series of manifest worlds, we do not get separated as the most - our world, separated from the previous worlds not as a quantum of energy, but as a separate particle.

Thus, the physical model of the universe is reconciled with the religious. It becomes clear that in addition to our world, there are other worlds. Worlds inhabited by angels - worlds where located abode of God (John 14: 2). And the higher world, the closer to the Creator, the more is His presence.

Information about the plurality of worlds in the fifth dimension, we find in the Bible, as well as learn from the holy fathers. So Paul says he knows the man who won the admiration to be " the third heaven . "

" I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities . " (2 Corinthians 12: 2-5)

Along with understanding the existing worlds natural question is whether our world to end in this series, or moving from the Center, passing through this world, you can get to other worlds? And if such worlds are, these worlds have to be more sad and painful doomed, since they are farther away from God - the Creator of the Universe and the Center. But hell, and is characterized by: abandonment by God, remoteness from God, the loss of God's grace. And if some areas can be hell, then, of course, that's area located on the fifth dimension beyond our world. And it's not known whether it is one world, or they are, as Heavens, the set?

Scientific research of the fifth dimension

In 1919, Polish mathematician Theodor Kaluza first proposed that a unified field theory can be constructed by applying a mathematical calculations instead of four measurements five-dimensional manifold. Work on this topic he published in 1921. Einstein on the idea expressed as follows: " The idea of creating, using a five-dimensional world never crossed my mind ... At first glance, this idea I like very "[5] A few days later, Kaluza again wrote " formal integrity of your theory is simply amazing "[5].

However, it's fair to say that T. Kaluza and O. Klein and later, Einstein tried to solve the problem of a unified field theory, by simply adding a fifth element (extra dimension) in their calculations. In this case, the phenomenon of the fifth dimension was explained as something incomprehensible: How to Fold a microscopic cylinder space. And because, supposedly, it is impossible to detect.

"... inability to observe the fifth dimension in the usual experiments can be explained by the smallness of the [value of L] , when averaged over the fifth dimension "- Oscar Klein wrote, continuing the thought of Kaluza. [5]

Einstein was also interested in the theory, and in the late thirties trying to develop the idea of a five-dimensional, as A. Pike wrote: " for several years, believing that the fifth dimension is a real sense ". [5]

He even wrote to Lawrence: " It seems that the combination of gravity with Maxwell's theory has been achieved fully satisfactory manner within the framework of the five-dimensional theory . " But all that doesn't add up. The latest attempt to build the five-dimensional Einstein made ​​in 1938 in America. The work went on for three years.

Approach of mathematicians - Kaluza and Klein - laid in the fact that they were trying to use the " five-dimensional space closed in the direction of the fifth dimension with a fixed period , "that is, understanding it as a part of the space for our four-dimensional world, or as a pseudo-measurement. It was a mistake, which consists in the fact that the fifth dimension is not a space in the conventional sense. Mathematicians don't have enough understanding of the measurement of objectification. This can also be judged from the words of Albert Einstein, who wrote: " It is not reasonable to replace the four-dimensional continuum by a five-dimensional, and then artificially impose restrictions on any of these five dimensions in order to explain why it doesn't manifest itself physically .. . ". [5]

This lack of understanding can be explained as follows. Our world is in contact with the fifth dimension, roughly speaking, at one point. This point - our world. And because the observer is not able to move from this point in one direction or another, it assumes that the measurement doesn't exist or it doesn't manifest itself physically. This supposedly "unobservability" of fifth dimension is illustrated by a similar "unobservability" of time measurement: the observer is always at the same point (the present moment) and can't move at will nor the future, nor in the past, and on this basis concluded that as time measurement doesn't exist because it doesn't manifest itself physically. In fact, up to a certain time, humanity and did not allocate time as a separate dimension.

Thus, we see that in the face of these three great thinkers in science there was made a huge step forward: there was recognition of the need to use, at least in the calculations, the fifth dimension. However, prior to recognition, and even more understanding of its nature, science at that time hasn't yet grown.

Moving in the fifth dimension

Since there is not a scientific theory, much of our knowledge of the fifth dimension is based on information drawn from the patristic sources. Nikolai Alexandrovich Motovilov once in a vision was shown the structure of our world, as he briefly writes in his "Notes" [6] These "Notes" seem to be very interesting for the topic of our research. Here is an extract:

" I should tell you more about how I was in Kiev, it was shown what is the force of gravity, Newton's discovery, by my teacher called the invisible grace of the Holy Spirit of God, which is more powerful than anything in the world, and may by the rays of His everything in the world contain in His palm - ye earth, ye heavenly. What are exactly eight firmament of heaven, about which it is said that it is lighter than any of the crystal firmly horizontally arranged, measureless to man, but measurable God and His Holy Spirit, like a round disc-shaped spaces or circles, between which are placed seven essential spaces in which the move around seven central enormous suns- or celestial circles - seven milk ways, consisting again of countless solar systems. And that our world is in the last of creatures over the deep sky, and below it, and the eighth is the firmament of the same water, as it is said, Hell - eternal fire of unholy and unquenchable - tartare, frost, worm incessantly, pitch darkness or eternal, and finally dare to second. And all this together contain only hand-like if simplified perception of the day so to speak, rays or streams of fire of the Holy Spirit, like fire taking place, but breathing the freshness of dew and unflaming the nature of created beings. Because, passing bright, crystal, water firmament separating air space containing the created heaven, they - these rays of the Holy Spirit of God - embodied in the water that exists above the heavens, and, entering the atmosphere in the worlds in finest drops of dew, bypass rational beings . About these heavenly dew drops wisdom says that morning to this heavenly wisdom is not wearied and her day for soon will be without sorrow"

About the waters above the firmament, it says in the Psalms:

" Praise him, ye heavens of heavens, and ye waters that be above the heavens . " (Psalm 148: 4)

In addition, when we carefully read the book of Genesis about the first days of creation, then suddenly open something hard to understand: firmament is the sky, and under it and over it - water.

" And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters. And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so. And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day ." (Genesis 1: 6-8)

It was only the next " day "appears" the land "from the waters that are" under heaven "- that is, in our world in which we now live. (Genesis. 1: 9-10)

In addition, from the lives of saints known that some of God's representatives could see and even visit Heaven " in the body or outside the body - is unknown , "how about the Apostle Paul says (2Kor.12 2). And could see what we have just assumed. So in the Life of Simeon ("Lives of the Saints" Dimitry of Rostov - on the day of May 24), stating that he was " delighted by the seven heavens . " There is a description of three marvelous visit in Heaven of St. Andrew for Christ ("Lives of the Saints" - on the day of May 19).

Saint Andrew says: " I saw beneath us as we sea abyss. It seemed to me that I walk on air "from which he was very frightened, but he was told that it is necessary to climb even higher. And he twice ascended from the world to the world of all of the above, "being caught up into the third heaven . "

Thinking reader shouldn't have a confusion through the Heavens, which Motovilov leads from higher to lower (tartar defining located below the eighth firmament), and Paul, and in the narrative communication. Andrew for Christ through being on top of our world: the first, second, third, etc. Sense because the fact that there is a plurality of worlds, separated by " Solid ", among which are, according to Motovilov's " essential space "to clear our physical characteristics - the presence of stellar systems. And as shown by the story of St.. Andrew live there quite comfortably and even much better than in this world affected by sin and demonic presence.

It is known that human life is divided into several stages:

1 Life in the body within this world (spirit + soul + body)

2 Life outside the body and outside of this world (spirit + soul)

3 Life after the Last Judgment in new bodies in the earth or other worlds (higher or lower relative to our world- " into outer darkness ").

God's abode, in the words of Scripture, the existing above the " firmament "- above our world - suitable for life in the updated bodies. Moreover, God Himself has promised that those who will live according to the commandments, get a better life in the inheritance. Or, in other words, shall inherit the higher worlds, where they will live for ever, and already quite comfortable. (John. 14: 2-6)

Said that after the general resurrection and the Last Judgment will be updated bodies resurrected people. And worthy will be able to inherit " a new heaven and a new earth "(Ps.36: 9 Ps.36: 11 Ps.36: 29 Matf.5 5 Is.65: 17 Is.66: 22 Revelation 21: 1, etc. .), where there is no death and night, disease and misery, and the Lord Himself will replace the Sun (Rev. 21, Rev. 22). All this looks like one of the higher worlds, since there is nothing but unfamiliar to us, the state of space and time. It can be assumed that the " new earth and a new heaven "represent one of the higher worlds, while the convicts for their inherit one of the lower realms, where" darkness and gnashing of teeth . " There will be, relatively speaking, as it were, sorting good and bad. These will live with the likes of: saints with saints, good with good, modest of modest, and the killer of killers - and rightly so.

Thus, it should be recognized that each of us sooner or later will do the journey in the fifth dimension regardless of whether he believes in it now or not - in one of two possible directions: toward God (to the center), or from God ( from the center on the fifth dimension). A line is said to depend on our lives today.

You can assume that one of the Beatitudes, where the Lord says about the inheritance of the earth the meek ​​( "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth "(Matthew. 5: 5)), we are talking about our land, updated after the general resurrection. I wonder what is said here about the nature and properties of the human soul, rather than belonging to a particular denomination some similar symptoms. For example, you could say, " I love "- and it would apply only to Christians. But as it is said is said. From this we can conclude that God loves all people, without exception, will not leave unrewarded any decent person, no matter what time he lived, and whatever confession did not belong formally, we know that formal membership Christianity doesn't save itself, needed more work.

" And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. "(Matt.11: 12)

We can assume that the earth will be renewed in order paradise wrote about Isaiah:

" The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them. And the cow and the bear shall feed; their young ones shall lie down together: and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice' den " . (Isaiah 11: 6-8)

Perfect same inherit even more beautiful area and the worlds, called the Kingdom of Heaven. Perfection is impossible to achieve without the knowledge of Christ and the fulfillment of His commandments. And on the way Christ said to the young man:

"And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me" . (Matt. 19: 16-21)

From the words of Christ, it becomes clear that to inherit eternal life enough, as they say, be a good person (which is not so easy, of course, but, more importantly, it is a condition called eternal life, that is, salvation), but the path of following Christ displays human to another level - the level called the perfect man. And, of course, that only committed - those who have chosen this path is mastered and inherit the higher worlds, inherit the kingdom of heaven.

Such an interpretation of the words of Christ allows us to answer the question about the people who do not belong to the Orthodox Church, and understand that it is not in the mind argue those believers who all dissenters or not similar to themselves designed to automatically detect fire hyena, to judge for God and exposing Orthodoxy in the eyes of other people some marginal sect, no knowledge of philanthropy and mercy of God. It is said that God first of all, looking at the human heart, and all the reward they deserved, and that not in all fairness (since then hardly anyone will be saved), but as a merciful Father.

Afterword

"... Our curiosity should not extend more than a general knowledge of what heaven and hell are really "places", but not a place in this world, in our space-time system. These "places" are so different from our earthly notions of "place" that we are hopelessly confused if we try to put together their "geography". Some Lives of the Saints clearly indicate that the "sky" is over "paradise"; others say that there are at least "three heavens" - not for us to open the borders of these places, or try to establish their characteristics. Similar descriptions are given to us by God's providence, to encourage us to seek back through the Christian life and death, but not for the fact that we make them worldly categories of logic and knowledge, which are inapplicable to them. St.. John Chrysostom rightly calls not pry the study of Heaven and Hell: "You ask me where the hell, but what you want to know? You should know that hell exists, but not where it is ... In my opinion, he's somewhere out of this world ...You know where it is not, and how to avoid it "(" Homilies on the Epistle to the Romans, "31 3-4) Seraphim Rose "soul after death"

The fifth dimension is necessary not only to physicists for a unified field theory, but in order for us to make it easier to explain some of the truths of religion to secular people. Yes, and a believer, to be honest, much more comfortable with a theory that makes it possible not only to believe, but also to understand. And even if this knowledge is not entirely correct, but it allows us to understand, for example, where there are the heavens, where is Hell, - confidence in the validity of the religious worldview increases. This, of course, from our weakness and weak faith. Lord, help our unbelief.

" Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief. " (Mark. 9: 23.24)

Grasp the analysis of the future, we must, in the absence of scientific knowledge and theories to use the knowledge given to people through revelation and knowledge gained by reaching the perfection of their own experience. The only theory that is not taken from the religious sphere - is Elliott wave theory by studying which we can see centuries of decline in economic indicators awaiting mankind. Unfortunately other scientific instruments, would give us the opportunity to analyze the future, the compiler of this work is not found. Although it is possible that they exist.

Sources

1 . L .N. Gumilev Ethnogenesis and the Biosphere . L. , 1989 ch.XXVII " Attenuation of drive " Flash and ash

2. L .N. Gumilev Ethnogenesis and the Biosphere . L. , 1989, Chapter XVI. Becoming of man-made landscapes . Periodization in phases

3. L .N. Gumilev Ethnogenesis and the Biosphere . L. , 1989, ch. XXIX. " Passionarity and sphere of consciousness " "The Curve of ethnogenesis"

4. Full Course on the Elliott Wave Principle (Comprehensive Course on the Wave Principle AJ Frost and Robert Prechter Jr.) Edited by Zakarian I.O. Translation by: Vozniy D.V. ] Lesson 26 " Waves with length of century"

5. A . Pice . Science activity and the Life of Einstein . M. Nauka 1989

6. "Notes of Nicholas Alexandrovich Motovilov , clerk of Our Lady and St. Seraphim "

Conclusion

Was it said in this work something completely new, something revolutionary, that is able to change the outlook of an Orthodox Christian? In fact, nothing! All said before Christ, the prophets, the saints, and approved by the Ecumenical Councils, and is described by the Church Fathers. However, the knowledge embodied in the Scriptures, with all its fullness, comprehensiveness, and the truth is often incomprehensible to readers due to peculiarities of the language of the past, or because they are metaphors or allegories.

In this paper we attempt to provide some interpretation of the various (not all) of the prophecies and the images recorded in the Bible. And if we were able to kind of see the meaning of certain prophetic images, it is not because the compiler of this work has gifts from God, or receives revelations directly from the source, but only because the event had already performed, or has already taken place. That is, a sealed book, which no one can open. (Rev. ch. 5 and 6), now offers itself, because it described the events 170 years as a committed, - removed the third printing. And what was the hidden secrets of the saints, for us sinners already partly history.

As a result, we were able to analysts straightforward to build a certain picture of the past, present, and part of the future. This picture looks quite plausible, but the theory needs to be tested, which will confirm or refute our assumptions. And such a test is possible. The theory will be tested by time.

The theory presented here is based on several basic provisions taken from the prophetic images shown John the Theologian. Firstly, on a search in the history of the Christian Church thousand-year period of relative prosperity, which could be called "millennium binding of Satan" and "millennium reign of the saints with Christ." This time we put on 843 years, marked in the history of the landmark holiday "Triumph of Orthodoxy", which marked the end of the period of registration of dogmatic Church at the end of the Ecumenical Councils - the holiday is still celebrated on the first Sunday of Lent.

Prophetic millennium reign of the saints with Christ, we considered not imaginative but specific millennium in history, which lasted from 843 until 1843.

Further, John the Evangelist speaks of the "small time" when Satan will be released from prison. When deciding on the duration of this period, we draw attention to representatively meaning of the Old Testament and in the prophecy of the final 490 years ("seventy-sevens") of the Old Testament period, suggesting that this period may be in the New Testament stories. It pushes us and the prophecy itself, which states, inter alia, about the events that have not yet come to pass.

Final "seventy weeks" - or 490 years-we do not put off from last year, thousand-year period, and from of the following year, because several other calculations pointed to 2334 as the year to the end of human history. Thus, in the New Testament history, we define the final "seventy weeks" as the period from 1844 till 2334.

This theory can already see a lot of interesting things. For example, what is the prophetic image of the opening of the seven seals of the mysterious book of Revelation may be a description of the final seventieth seven 490-year period of human history. And the fact that we live in a period of the opening of the third seal gives us some opportunity to test our assumptions. We have already had the opportunity to compare the events of the story with images that describe the past two seventieth birthday. Of course, the mystery, the metaphoric images leaves ample room for healthy skepticism. Nevertheless, we can see a very direct hit on an example of the second way of removing printing, both in time (1914 is the year of the beginning of the first of the two world wars that have taken place in this period), and the image (represented by a rider on a red horse with a large sword, who has taken the world by land to people killing each other).

By and large, we do not need other ways of determining the date of the end of human history. And they act, perhaps only as a supplement to this historically substantiates method of calculation (Goals of the "reign of the saints with Christ" + "seventy weeks" or "small time"). After the theory, if it is correct, must be confirmed by different methods of calculation. Although the main test will be, of course, the story itself.

It seems right to focus on the method of calculation, which is closely associated with the historical events of the New Testament stories. To focus on other methods of calculation to a certain degree is dangerous, as the dates of many events, especially in remote, often historians are not defined with absolute precision, and may be in dispute. In addition, we have a lack of clarity on the issue of determining the date of the birth of Christ, that in the future will bring confusion in determining the date of the arrival of the Antichrist, which some forces try to present the date of the coming of Christ. That is why we believe that the core is such a method of calculation:

843 - the beginning of the reference period of a thousand years, called the "millennium reign of the saints with Christ"

843 - 1843 years - the historical boundaries of the millennium

1844 - date figuratively called the "time-to Satan for a little while."

1844-2334 period - "seventy weeks" (490 years) of the New Testament period, after which "will be anointed with the holy of holies" and approved the eternal kingdom of Christ.

Forecast of development of events

during the "third and fourth prints"

Any theory should be checked. The most important test, as has been said, will be the story itself: the execution of one or another of the predicted events. Near such an event can't happen so soon. We're talking about the beginning of the fourth seventieth birthday, which will begin in 2054. And there is every reason to believe that this will be the start time of a great war. Although it is still a year before we assume the implementation of the prophecy known as the "Great Diveevskaya mystery" (Diveevo - the area where St. Seraphim of Sarov founded a convent), and is likely to occur the election of the King, which tells the resurrected for a short period of St. Seraphim of Sarov. This conclusion is pushing several analytical calculations. Since August 1, 2053 will be celebrated the 150th anniversary of the glorification of St. Seraphim of Sarov in the face of the saint (220 anniversary of his blessed death). Here then, most likely, as predicted, "will sing the summer of Easter."

The revival of the monarchy in Russia is also a projection. We believe we have the fact that the revival of the monarchy in Russia predicted. But this is impossible without the return of the monarchy sacredness. In an age of universal skepticism retreat and make it virtually impossible. Popular election of the king does not solve the problem, as will be playing the next presidential election (usually the leader). Not solved the issue and return of the descendants of the emigrant families who a century living in the West finally lost touch with his people, and will not be accepted. The king can only be from among the living, and living in Russia.

Return sacredness possible only through sheer Divine Providence for all, without a doubt what will be the resurrection of St. Seraphim of Sarov, which, in turn, may indicate the King.

The election of the King and the beginning of World War II are in the closest proximity to the historical, and it is easily explained by a variety of reasons. Chief among them - it is anger of the powerful, the organizers of the new world order for Russia, because once again crumble their plans. The second factor is the likely period of political instability that accompanies any political upheavals of this kind.

Political instability in Russia and malice engineers totalitarian-apocalyptic world order will provoke some countries on the aggression against Russia. So the aggressor may be China, dreaming of riches and territories of Siberia. And most likely, only China, the number of aggressors is not limited. Dangerous may be a southerly direction, where already in a number of countries with the support of the United States come to power Islamist forces that put a goal to create a world Islamic caliphate. In just a few decades, we may be witnessing the emergence of such education or coalition became Islamic countries in Africa and the Middle East.

It is unknown whether to behave aggressively toward us Europe. It is unlikely that the United States entered the war initially. It can be assumed that, as during the Second World War, the States will be first to provoke a war, and then wait as they are beneficial to both the weakening of China, and the maximum attenuation of Russia.

Capture Siberia extraordinary efforts to China, he could not go in the plans of the United States. Therefore, through the States for some time to come into the war, kick in mainland China from the Pacific Ocean. It can be assumed that the United States will cause a massive nuclear attack on the industrial and densely populated areas of China, in order to break down and destroy the main geopolitical rival. As we know from history, States did not hesitate to destroy the peaceful cities if it can intimidate or crush the enemy. Suffice it to recall the senseless cruelty nuclear attacks on peaceful Japanese cities: Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Someone might conclude that a world war will provoke elected king in Russia. But it is not. Architects of the new world order long and hard paving a path to the Antichrist. And if not for the resistance of the Christian world, and especially Russia, the enemies of mankind much earlier would have created an electronic concentration camp with a split on the caste of humanity. Do I have to resist enslavement, even if the enemy threatens war? The answer is obvious.

You can look at the problem from a different perspective. What if during the opening quadruple print world war will begin for other reasons? Be better to us if the authorities will not be patriotic, Western-oriented liberal forces? What are the chances of our people will continue in this case? How effective will such power to defend the interests of the people? And if Russia does not disappear into the depths of the carnage to the delight of the enemies of humanity? If the final stage of human history is replete with wars and troubles, whether you want to unfold in front of the enemy in the illusory hope of pardon? Do I have to give up their identity in favor of the builders of the world of the totalitarian regime?

However, we got carried away. Our theory does not claim absolute knowledge, but is merely an analytical outlook. So we can only assume this or that development on its basis. Nothing more.

To live according to the Scriptures

Was it said in this work something that can affect an Orthodox person negatively: ward of the Church, to carry away a charm, or otherwise harm? In any way. We affirm the truth of the Orthodox faith, the truth of the Church of Christ. Honestly say that this theory is purely the result of intelligence, which is made ​​possible only because the events are already being accomplished. And what was the hidden secrets of a century ago, is now a fait accompli or done before our eyes.

For the true Orthodox no new introductory information can't change anything in his world. It is impossible to improve the knowledge given to us by God Himself. And this theory only adds some details, the finishing touches to the overall picture. Picture, which according to God's will and with our direct participation, is nearing its end.

This difficulty isn't so much an interpretation of prophecy, as an attempt to explain the prophecies already an accomplished events. To date, a critical mass of factual material was sufficient to hidden for images and allegories of knowledge began to open to us.

In Revelation, we see the image of a sealed book, print which no one could be removed to show the future of St. John. And we can assume that this means the following: up to a certain time of the mysteries of the Apocalypse were to remain for mankind intimate. But now the time of fulfillment. Time when the three print books have already been removed. We live in a time when this book has already been disclosed. One-third of the "small time" passed.

Meanwhile, to the Antichrist and his printing, which many rightly fear even more than three centuries. However, does this mean that you can relax? No! Christ told his disciples to stay awake, sober, to be always at the ready! And it is only the way it should operate in the war - a war that is being waged since the fall of Satan on the earth (Rev. 12: 9).

And in our time, when human history is to the finale, and this struggle intensifies, the more unacceptable carelessness. Modern man always have to make a choice between the spiritual and the material, truth and falsehood, and, ultimately, between eternal life and death. "The whole modern world - is one global invitation to hell," - said the wise. But what then? Renounce the world, to go into the forest, the catacombs, the desert? To do so - would be to betray his homeland, his people. But someone still has to work hard to run the country, someone has to bring up children, to teach them the truth, someone has to resist the rising chaos and defend the fatherland against enemies. To quit the country, its people, their children, until it is possible to resist the creation of a totalitarian apocalyptic concentration camp, an Orthodox man can't. It will look like cowardice or meanness and fleeing from the battlefield.

The Lord cares for those who trust in Him. The Lord loves us and will not leave ever, neither a global apocalyptic times of war and unrest, not even in the times of arrival of the Antichrist. Do not hide it is necessary - especially if it turns out that by the end of the world even more than a century - and learn to live according to the Lord, according to the scriptures, the teachings of the Holy Fathers, who, in fact, are a continuation of the Bible. After all, what is the Bible? This book contains the teachings of God's revelation and the inspired people, as well as the most important historical information about the people of God and His Church. But the story is not over yet, the people of God who are now Christians, still exists, and why the Bible continues to be written. It is written the history of Orthodoxy, the teachings of the holy fathers, their edification and prophecy.

Need to develop a "spiritual vision." It is your responsibility to learn to distinguish good from evil. And to live according to the Scriptures, it is necessary to know the Scriptures. "One must have a train to the mind as it swam in the law of the Lord, who guided, is to manage your life," - said St. Seraphim of Sarov. In modern times, when the voice of Truth quieter and chaos, lies, misinformation every day only worse, knowledge of Scripture becomes a necessity. You must not superficial knowledge, but now thoughtful and meaningful understanding of the Word of God. For the "sin brings forth death" (James 1:15). Degradation of public morality, the imposition of sinful behavior leads to the fact that modern people often do not even realize that sin does not understand that harms their eternal life.

Learn to live according to the scriptures - does not mean only to read the Gospel, although reading the New Testament St. Seraphim of Sarov (quoting Gregory the Theologian) called the bread of angels, who also need for the soul as bread for the body. Live according to the scriptures - it means to practice every day, every hour in the life of the Orthodox.

"I will have mercy, and not sacrifice" - God said through the mouth of the Old Testament prophet Hosea (Hosea 6: 6). After seven centuries Jesus Christ adds to the truth. Of all the commandments, only two are the most important:

"Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind: this is the first and great commandment; And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself; On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. " (Matt. 22: 37-40)

.... "Sometimes there is no commandment greater than these." (Mark. 12:31).

Love is incompatible with cruelty. And the meek ​​Lord will protect and give them to inherit the earth (Ps.36: 11 Mat.5: Sir.10 5: 17). By the way, theology does not give a clear explanation of the beatitudes. What are the meek ​​shall inherit the earth, and when? And since this is one of the nine beatitudes given by God in the Sermon on the Mount, we can assume that this is a promise that has global significance. In this regard, it may be the best our assumption that it refers to the inheritance of the earth renewed at the end of human history. And if the kingdom of heaven - the New Jerusalem - the holy inherit, ascetics of piety, martyrs for the Word of God and to please him all the members of the Church of Christ, the promise can apply to all people in general. It answers the question: will be saved if the representatives of other religions, and those who do not know the true doctrine? If our assumption is correct, then we can definitely say that if they lived pleasing to God, then of course saved. Think differently, offer a look at another parable of Christ - the parable of the Good Samaritan. Samaritans were Jews infidels. And while the priest and the Levite passed by, a good deed done Gentile Samaritan. And it was put up as an example:

" Go, and do thou likewise. "(Luke 10: 37)

And do not just say that God looks on the heart of man, not his rank or affiliation to a particular group of people. A man with an evil heart gets reward for thoughts, words, deeds and actions, and not for something else. Similarly, a person will get the reward for not more than a for their thoughts, words, deeds and actions. At the same time with those whom much is given, more is demanded. However, just knowing and loving Christ open " way of perfection "(Matt. 19: 21), and therefore more is given. They show the way in which we can earn eternal life in the higher worlds - in the kingdom of heaven. While just a good person, of course, will not be thrown into hell, but can only inherit the earth - eternal life in the earth.

Therefore, we will always remember the words of Elder Paisius (Holy Mountain): " We came into this world in order to get better ! " We will always have before his mind's eye the image of Christ, who brought the Gospel (Good News of salvation) in person. Became man, that is, become a man, knowing that he came in the form of a reproach, to take unjust and undeserved painful death. And yet He went at it for the sake of the human race.

Christ came to teach us divine truths. And the descent into hell has conquered death, then opened to all comers, and able to believe, the way to Heaven, to teach people in word and deed, and the whole of his life, undergoing hunger and thirst, and not having the time, where to lay his head. (Matt. 8:20). And what are we?

The monastery is considered to be above the obedience of prayer and church services. And we each carry our cross. Do not grumble at hardships, because the Lord does not give a burden not afford. Do not assume any difficulties beyond what the Lord hath given.

His cross and his own destiny and is our homeland. We are not always able to understand the providence of God: Why the Russian Empire collapsed, why the Soviet Union collapsed later why the letters were blood tests, and that in the end was able to create the Russian people what greatness and weakness of socialism, and how we should relate to its history? The main thing is never to forget that the homeland is one and the other will not. We are responsible for Russia and Orthodoxy, and through it - and for the whole world. Since Orthodoxy - a bastion of truth, and Russia - a bastion of orthodoxy. The world exists until the enemy broke inside. But when all the land of the kingdom of the Antichrist will prevail, remain still several churches, where until the end of human history will not stop bloodless sacrifice! The Church does not die before the end of the century, as in the most difficult times remain faithful!

The enemy hates the truth, because he hates orthodoxy, and therefore he will not leave Russia. But God is with us, all the host of heaven, and the hosts of saints! Eventually, the enemy will still be put to shame!

Wrote Archbishop Averky: " the gates of hell shall not prevail against the Holy Apostolic Church, but they can overcome many of those who consider themselves pillars of the church, as it shows us the history of the Church "[3] He spoke of the future and communication. St. Seraphim of Sarov: " The Lord revealed to me that the time will come when the bishops of the Russian land and other clerics evade the preservation of Orthodoxy in all its purity, and for the wrath of God shall shoot at them .. ".. [4] How to be Orthodox? How to identify that you are in the truth, and not outside of it? It must be weighed against all the Word of God and the ordinances of the Seven Ecumenical Councils.

Once again about the print of the Antichrist

Apostle liken our bodies a temple in which dwells the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19), because it is impossible to some external sign to expel the grace of the Holy Spirit until not happened inner renunciation, has not happened yet conscious betrayal. Application of the Antichrist print on hand and forehead will be such - the renunciation of truth. And this will be the betrayal and death of the human soul. Prior to these events, we will not live, but do not relax: the renunciation of truth, denial of Christ is made time and again every day. And let those who do not yet renounced the external signs, the consequences for the soul of this are no less disastrous.

Don't be afraid of something external, you need to be afraid to defile his own soul! After the death of the body is nothing compared to the death of the second. At St. John the Divine, we read that there are two deaths and two resurrections. Death of his first no one can escape, and should not try. Moreover, the constant awareness of the reality and proximity own demise, to help the Saints in the fight, and spiritual development. Constantly remembering death, we prepare your soul for God's Judgment. This event is not only real, it is an event that can be noted in the calendar and every day to see him coming! Same time of his own death, we do not know because you must always be ready to meet her.

The Christian must always be ready to stand before God. After all, if chronologically Universal Judgment is separated from the present time, more than three centuries, something for everyone from the small living judgment day theory may come at any time since death can take us at any time. And on the fortieth day after death, the soul will appear on the private judgment of God, where it will be determined by the place of residence to the General Court.

Therefore always remains topical said:

" Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh "(Mark.13.35)

Son of Man, who will all be judged by the court fair, every meet immediately after his death: some only at the time of trial, someone to stay there, or to stay in one of the many heavenly mansions (John. 14: 2).

The war did not end ever, but from the middle of the XIX century war intensified. Dragon began to pursue his wife, and the seed of the Church e - " have the testimony of Jesus Christ "(Gen 3:15 Revelation 12: 17). " The times, more and more difficult , "- wrote Ignatius (Bryanchaninov)," Apocalypse done now , "- writes in the XX century monk Seraphim Rose [5]. How can that be? How to survive and not to die for eternal life? " Let only devotion and piety will lights in your hands "- teaches almost our contemporary Archimandrite Averky. Even when the world is falling apart, you can be a devout, can be pious. But, as he wrote all the same Averky: " Meekness and humility is not a spineless, they do not tend to manifest evil. A true Christian should be uncompromising in relation to evil, must deal with it by all available means to decisively stop the spread and strengthening of this evil among men . "

Need to constantly evolve, " to grow in Orthodoxy , "to be able to distinguish the truth from the surrogates to be able to withstand the chaos is amplified to know their enemies own sins and weaknesses. Constant seeking out foreign enemies, charge the people around them, the desire to uncover the other eye - from the evil one. Today, people are increasingly trying to blame instead of the true enemy, its unfortunate victims. Someone sure to blame the Jews, someone blames the Communists, who does not like the Democrats, someone - the Gentiles. It should be understood that the enemy is actually different. Do not look for the enemy, the enemy is known! Searching your way to the Kingdom of God! Soon the court! And for us sinners death, which is possible at any moment, fatally brings it!

So, " Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh "!

Sources:

  1. "The Bible of Holy Scripture " (3m ) // reprint Savvino Storozhevsky Monastery Design: "Rule of Faith" M ., 1999

2 ."The Bible of scripture of the Old and New Testament " canonical in Russian translation with parallel passages , 1991

3.     Hieromonk Damaskin " Church in the face of retreat " Light of Orthodoxy , issue number 37 , 1998

4.     "The Life , teachings and prophecies of St. Cerafim Sarov " Poltava Eparchy of the Spaso-Preobrazhensky Mgarsky Monastery , 2001

5.     Father Seraphim Rose, "How to be Orthodox" Pochayiv Lavra 2005 year -2013 year Crimea, Moscow

The original text in Russian

freelance translator Anna Zhukovska

The book is intended for free distribution on the Internet.

To communicate with author, e-mail: golden-ship@mail.ru