The names of the stars interpret for us infallibly the meaning of the picture.
The brightest star, α (in the upper mandible), is named Menkar, and means the bound or chained enemy. The next, β (in the tail), is called Diphda, or Deneb Kaitos, overthrown, or thrust down. The star ο (in the neck) is named Mira, which means THE REBEL. Its name is ominous, for the star is one of the most remarkable. It is very bright, but it was not till 1596 that it was discovered to be variable. It disappears periodically seven times in six years! It continues at its brightest for fifteen days together. M. Bade says that during 334 days it shines with its greatest light, then it diminishes, till it entirely disappears for some time (to the naked eye). In fact, during that period it passes through several degrees [pg 114] of magnitude, both increasing and diminishing. Indeed its variableness is so great as to make it appear unsteady!
Here, then, is the picture of the Great Rebel as shown in the heavens. What is it, as written in the Word?
The Almighty asks man:—
“Canst thou draw out Leviathan with a fish hook?
Or press down his tongue with a cord?
Canst thou put a rope into his nose?
Or pierce his jaw through with a hook?...
Shall not one be cast down even at the sight of him?
None is so fierce that he dare stir him up.”