The answer is: A stone like a great millstone

Rev 18 vs 21

In this vivid imagery of Revelation 18:21, we see a mighty angel toss a great millstone into the sea, marking the dramatic end of Babylon. This ain't just any stone; a millstone was primarily used by ancient cultures to grind grain, signifying everyday life and sustenance. The symbolism tells us that the fall of Babylon is a devastating blow to a world that thrived on its influence.

Interestingly, the notion of Babylon’s fall has echoes throughout the Bible. The original Babylon is tied to a story woven throughout Scripture—a potent symbol for oppression, materialism, and moral decay. When you think about Babylon, consider Genesis 11, where Babel was known for both its lofty ambitions and disastrous outcomes. God's scatter, away from the prideful construction of a Babel tower, resonates with Revelation's finale.

Additionally, Jerusalem, in stark contrast, represents a place of hope and reunion in biblical prophecy. Ancient maps and texts often illustrate this tension between the corrupted and the redeemed, hinting at ethical races that have carried from these ancient times to modern reflections on societal values today.

Moreover, attendees of the early Christian church would clearly understand this allusion; they might have viewed Gentile Rome, with its overwhelming sway, as a new Babylon. The community found encouragement in these images, energizing their resolve against oppression—those heavily in thrall to wealth will ultimately face their fall, much like a millstone sinking into the depths. 🪨🌊