[11] As the writer has been for some time studying the symbolical language of the Scriptures, and intends (if the Lord will, unless some person more able should attempt an explanation) to give his views to the public, he will not be so particular at present in explaining the symbol of the great whore which sitteth upon many waters, as he otherwise should. He early perceived that the heavens and the earth, with all their furniture, were used as an alphabet, in the language of things, to represent moral subjects. His object has been to learn the true meaning of each symbol by comparing Scripture with Scripture. No language can be read until the alphabet is first learned. Symbolical language does not, like other languages, change with time and place, but represents the same idea to all nations and at all times. He is of opinion that one symbol does not represent two events, unless it first have a reference to some less event which is typical of some more important event; in that case, all together may be figurative of some great ultimate end. Although one symbol is supposed never to represent two different things, yet two or more symbols generally represent one thing. He has found by tracing back a symbol to its first use, that its true meaning is generally manifest. Since examining the Scriptures with this view he has been irresistibly drawn into the conclusions now exhibited. [12] The writer is fully of opinion that a ferocious beast is never used as a symbol of a corrupt church, but of a tyrannical warlike power. He has been for some time of opinion that the second Apocalyptic beast is rising, and that he will possess all the power of the first beast before him, and that under him the false prophet will appear; and the witnesses will be slain; and upon his kingdom the six first vials of his divine wrath will be principally poured out; and the seventh will be poured upon Satan's kingdom universally, as he is the prince of the power of the air. Transcriber's Notes The section in the table of contents entitled, "Because, instead of preventing, it provokes insult and mischief," does not exactly match the title of the corresponding section found within the text. This has been retained. Pg 116. The word 'Antipolemos' was changed to 'Antipolemus.' Pg 120. The word 'righteousnesss' was changed to 'righteousness.' Pg 142. A question mark was changed to a period in the following sentence, "The question to be decided is whether these regulations are still in force, or whether they were disannulled by the gospel dispensation."