I don't have time right now to really dig into this but at some point I'd like to if you're available. For now I'll just present a quick AI summary of each position (I hold to the latter):

The interpretation of the "woman who rides the beast" in the Book of Revelation has generated extensive debate over the centuries. Two prominent interpretations involve Jerusalem and the Catholic Church. Below are some of the strongest arguments for each position.

Arguments for Jerusalem as the Woman Who Rides the Beast

Historical Context: In the first century, Jerusalem was the center of Jewish life and worship. The city had a complex relationship with the ruling Roman Empire, which parallels the imagery of the beast as a representation of corrupt political power.

Symbolic Imagery: Jerusalem is often depicted as a woman in biblical texts. For example, in the Old Testament, cities are frequently personified as feminine figures. Revelation 21 contrasts the "New Jerusalem" with Babylon, suggesting a broader symbolism of Jerusalem representing both the faithful and, in its fall, the corrupt.

Rejection of Christ: Jerusalem is often associated with the rejection of Jesus, the Messiah. This rejection could be seen as embodying the "abominations" referenced in Revelation, specifically in light of the city's role in the crucifixion and persecution of early Christians.

Prophetic Literature: The prophetic literature of the Old Testament often depicts Jerusalem in a dual light—both as a place of future hope and as a city that has been judged. The judgment on Jerusalem by the Romans in 70 CE could be reflected in the imagery of the beast.

Link to Babylon: Revelation refers to the woman as "Babylon the Great," and some interpreters see this as a representation of Jerusalem, which had gone through cycles of faithfulness and unfaithfulness, particularly during the Second Temple period where political corruption and moral decline were rampant.

Arguments for the Catholic Church as the Woman Who Rides the Beast

Historical Identification: Throughout history, many Protestant reformers and theologians identified the Catholic Church with Babylon due to perceived corruption, the establishment of papal authority, and the alleged departure from original Christianity.

Political Power: The Catholic Church, particularly during the Middle Ages, wielded significant political power and influence, often partnering with and challenging secular authorities, which aligns with the image of a woman riding a beast (an alliance between church and state).

Symbolism of the Seven Hills: Revelation 17:9 mentions the woman sitting on seven hills. Rome, the seat of the Catholic Church, is famously known as the "City of Seven Hills," providing a geographical link to the interpretation.

Persecution of Saints: The Catholic Church, throughout its history, has been involved in the persecution of various groups, including other Christians (e.g., the Inquisition) and non-Christians. This aligns with the portrayal of the woman in Revelation as one who is drunk with the blood of the saints.

Maternal Imagery: The Catholic Church often uses maternal imagery in its theology (e.g., the Church as Mother). This parallels the woman in Revelation, who is presented as nurturing but also as an entity that can exploit and oppress, fitting with the notion of institutional corruption.