Revelation 17:3

Into the wilderness; probably to be understood symbolically of the fact that her presence makes a spiritual wilderness.

A woman; representing this idolatrous persecuting power, who, with all deceivableness of unrighteousness, by pretended miracles, shows, splendid decorations, indulgences, jubilees, and blandishments of various sorts, had been deceiving and enslaving the nations, promising all good to those who should follow, and all evil to those who should oppose her. 2Th 2:9-12; 1 Timothy 4:1-3.

Scarlet - colored; scarlet is the well-known color of popes and cardinals.

Seven heads and ten horns; see below on verses Revelation 17:9-12.