13:13a
performed: This word means “did” here. For example:
worked (New Jerusalem Bible)
The beast probably did miracles throughout the 42 months. Translate the word so that it indicates “always doing so” rather than “doing this once.”
great signs: The Berean Standard Bible literally represents the Greek here. The word sign here refers to an unusual event that people regard as having a special meaning. These signs were probably miracles that showed the great power of the dragon and the two beasts. Other ways to translate the Greek phrase are:
great miracles (New Jerusalem Bible)
-or-
great portents
-or-
great wonders (King James Version)
The Greek phrase here is the same as in 12:1a. In that verse the Berean Standard Bible has “a great sign.” However, the phrase here is plural. The meaning here probably implies miracles as signs, rather than just signs that are seen.
13:13b
to cause even fire from heaven to come down: The word even indicates that to cause…fire from heaven to come down is an example of the great signs (13:13a). For example:
even, ⌊for example,⌋ causing fire to come down
-or-
including ⌊the amazing miracle of⌋ causing fire to descend
-or-
⌊For example,⌋ he caused fire to descend
from heaven…to earth: Here the word heaven means “very high in the sky.” The fire probably began so high in the sky that the people could not see where it began. Other ways to translate this phrase are:
to earth from the sky (New Living Translation (2004))
-or-
from very high in the sky
13:13c
in the presence of the people: The Greek phrase is literally “before men.” This event was done purposely so people could see it. Other ways to translate this phrase are:
in the sight of everyone (Good News Translation)
-or-
while people are watching (New Century Version)
the people: This word is general and refers to both men and women.
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