What did the mighty angel throw into the sea that represented the throwing down of Babylon?

In the Book of Revelation, the image of the angel tossing a "great millstone" into the sea is not just a striking visual; it's profoundly symbolic. The act signifies the ultimate downfall of Babylon, a powerful metaphor for a world system tied to corruption, idolatry, and moral decay. By casting this enormous stone, the text conveys the totality and irreversibility of judgment against this once-mighty entity.

Now, millstones were significant in ancient times. They were heavy stones used to grind grain, and often were personified as symbols of hard labor. So, tossing such a heavy object into the depths of the sea suggests that Babylon's foundations—built on ruthless commerce and exploitation—would sink and be forgotten, never to resurface. This stirring image echoes earlier biblical stories where water represented both life and judgment. Think Noah's flood or the parting of the Red Sea.

Interestingly, in the teachings of Jesus, He similarly references a millstone in Mark 9:42 to stress the seriousness of leading others astray. It's remarkable how one symbol, like this great millstone, can resonate in various contexts, hammering home ideas of accountability, the weight of one’s actions, and, ultimately, the hope for renewal and righteousness that endures past human failings. The angel’s act mobilizes readers toward reflection on what systems in our own lives might need to be "thrown into the sea."