This phrase sends our thoughts in the direction of excessive wealth. Other translations, however, render the Greek term as “lived sensuously” (NASB). A cognate of the Greek term appears in the Septuagint in 2 Kings 19:28 to render a Hebrew word that describes an ease borne of security, and so suggests smugness. The point appears to be that these “kings,” because of their adulterous relationship with the prostitute, had all they wanted and so did not have a care in the world. To their feeling, “Babylon” had provided their every desire.
9 And the kings of the earth, who committed sexual immorality and lived in luxury with her, will weep and wail over her when they see the smoke of her burning.