Why is the revived Roman Empire referred to as a beast in Revelation 13?
The revived Roman Empire is called a beast because its government will operate so bestially, with no concern for human rights or the individual. It is still only a government, but its cruel conduct makes the beast image fitting, as also in Daniel.
Les explains that the beast in Revelation 13 is first and foremost the revival of the old ancient Roman Empire. The reason it is called a beast, here and in Daniel, is that the government will be so bestial in its operation: it will have no concern about human rights or the individual. Therefore it is referred to as a beast, though it is only a government. Les also notes the seven heads and ten horns usually picture the revived Roman Empire as a consortium of ten nations coming out of old Roman Empire territory, which he sees coming on the scene in Europe as the common market or European community. He says the number may vary—it began with seven in the 70s, reached ten, and later twelve—but by the signing of the seven-year treaty it will be back at ten. He also suggests a twofold picture, since Satan is sometimes referred to as the seven heads, indicating power and authority.