The Bible's book of Revelation uses imagery at times. This is not to say that its meaning is vague or non-specific. The key to decoding the imagery is in Revelation 17. Also see Daniel 9. There's an excellent book entitled "Understanding End Times Prophecy: A Comprehensive Approach" by Paul N. Benware; check it out if you're curious in the least. It's not just for scholars and nutzos anymore: Bible prophecy _can_ be understood. Actually, you'll find that Bible prophecy is more specific and more statistically proven than any other religious or so-called prophetic book. Beats the crapola out of Nostrildamoose. For starters, check out "The Signature of God, the Handwriting of God" by Grant R. Jeffrey.