Dan. 7:1 In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, and told the sum of the matters.
Obviously, the book of Daniel does not read chronologically. This chapter jumps back to the time of the beginning of Belshazzar’s reign. The timing is about three years before the events recorded in chapter 6.
This time Daniel had a dream and visions and made a written record of it all. The fact that he records having a dream and visions seems to emphasize how vivid and clear the experience was to him even though it occurred during his sleep.
Dan. 7:2 Daniel spake and said, I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove upon the great sea.
This verse immediately made me think of Revelation 7:1, where we are told of four angels holding the four winds of the earth (north, south, east, west).
Revelation 7:1 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth….
It would seem that the angels are used of God in management of all the things pertaining to mankind. In Daniel’s dream the winds are causing havoc on the great sea, usually a reference to the Mediterranean.
Numbers 34:6-7 And as for the western border, ye shall even have the great sea for a border: this shall be your west border. And this shall be your north border: from the great sea ye shall point out for you mount Hor….
(These verses are defining the borders of the land of Israel to Moses, the western border of which is the Mediterranean Sea.)
Ezekiel 47:20 The west side also shall be the great sea from the border, till a man come over against Hamath. This is the west side.
(This verse is part of the revelation given Ezekiel regarding the borders of the land at the time of the millennial temple, again the western border of which is the Mediterranean Sea.)
Joshua 9:1 And it came to pass, when all the kings which were on this side Jordan, in the hills, and in the valleys, and in all the coasts of the great sea over against Lebanon….
(The Mediterranean is the only “great sea” bordering Lebanon.)
The prophet Zechariah supports connecting the wind to angels.
Zechariah 6:1–5 “And I turned, and lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, there came four chariots out from between two mountains; and the mountains were mountains of brass. In the first chariot were red horses; and in the second chariot black horses; And in the third chariot white horses; and in the fourth chariot grisled and bay horses. Then I answered and said unto the angel that talked with me, What are these, my lord? And the angel answered and said unto me, These are the four spirits of the heavens, which go forth from standing before the Lord of all the earth.”
The word “spirits” is defined as “wind.” The picture is of a struggle for control of this area coming from all directions. This is quite interesting considering the great gas deposits found off the coast of Israel and the subsequent find of oil in the Golan, not to mention the minerals in the Dead Sea.
Dan. 7:3 And four great beasts came up from the sea, diverse one from another.
Great beasts = kings (v17) = kingdoms (v23)
Like Nebuchadnezzar, Daniel dreamed about four kingdoms. I have always been taught that the parts of the statue in Nebuchadnezzar’s dream seem to line up with the four beasts in Daniel’s dream. Until now, that has made the most sense to me. I listened to a teaching by Joe Focht several months ago that challenged that understanding. After much contemplation and listening to it again recently, I am looking at this chapter from a fresh perspective. He presents these kings/kingdoms as co-existent with the “little horn,” the Antichrist. As I began to do more research, I was surprised to find that this theory was not new at all—only new to me.
Stedman notes that this vision is given to Daniel at the end of the rule of Babylon. What he sees is future.
These kings will eventually be “humbled” or “abased” under the rule of one leader. Since Daniel is not told who they are as in chapters 2 and 8, establishing their identities is open to speculation. In fact, that they are not identified and that Daniel didn’t connect these kingdoms with those in Nebuchadnezzar’s dream only strengthens the thought that the dreams do not have the same frame of reference.
Since all four of these beasts are singled out for notice, they must represent pretty significant kings/kingdoms on the world scene at the same time. I believe the context of the chapter will show them to be impact players during end times that will eventually morph into one beast—the Antichrist and his kingdom.
Focht threw out the possibility of identifying Great Britain and Russia as the first two beasts, and I think they are good candidates.
Dan. 7:4 The first was like a lion, and had eagle’s wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man’s heart was given to it.
Britain’s recognized emblem is a lion that is often pictured standing tall like a man. The fact that it is pictured with eagle’s wings is thought provoking in that the United States, which began as a British colony, is associated with the eagle. That the wings were plucked from off the lion seems to picture the fact that Britain began to decline in power as the United States began to ascend in power after forcefully separating from Britain. After the United States declared their independence, Britain began changing from a voracious lion wanting to conquer the world with their powerful navy to being pictured as a man that was no longer a threat to world dominion.
Dan. 7:5 And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh.
The bear is the official symbol of Russia, and that nation is often referred to as the Russian bear. This bear is rising up to take action and “devour much flesh.” Though the nation of Russia suffered a setback with the break up of the U.S.S.R., she is once again rising up as a major world power of influence. I am not sure how to identify the three ribs, but I think it is likely that they are nations over which she eventually extends sovereignty.
Stedman: “The more literal translation of ‘raised up one side’ is ‘it made for itself one dominion.’ The Soviet Union is made of of many republics joined together.”
“they said” – who? Its leaders? A reference to the winds of heavens (v2)? Messenger angels? Evil spiritual forces?
Psalms 104:4 Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire….
Barnes’ Notes on the Bible makes the following comment on this verse: “The meaning here literally would be, "Who makes the winds his messengers," or "his angels;" that is, who employs them to execute his purpose; who sends them out as messengers or angels to do his will.”
I think the significant point is that the bear is being told what to do, and we know that God is the supernatural sovereign ruler that uses men, nations, angels and spiritual forces of evil to accomplish His purposes.
Stedman: “In the 8th chapter we find that the Medo-Persian empire is specifically named and appears in the form of a beast, but the beast is not a bear, but a great ram. It seems to me unlikely that the scripture would employ two symbolisms of animals for the same empire….” This would also be true in reference to Greece as a he-goat.
Dan. 7:6 After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it.
I think it is significant to note that this beast has four heads from the beginning in contrast to the he-goat in chapter 8. This seems to indicate that it is a coalition of leaders or nations into one kingdom that are united with a common goal. It is also noted that this kingdom was “given” its empire, its sphere of authority.
The Aramaic for “wings” states: “to arch; the back; by extensive the body or self:—+ highest places.” This could denote pride and arrogance as depicted by its leaders. I can’t help but want to connect it in some way to the Muslim world since they are such important players on the world stage in these end times. I also thought of Turkey but could not logically make a connection with four heads unless it becomes one member of such a Muslim coalition.
It could be that this beast is yet to arise.
If the proposed identification is correct, then it seems likely that the beasts are presented in the order in which they arose to power.
Dan. 7:7 After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns.
Dan. 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things.
Daniel is given explanation regarding this fourth beast in the next few verses.
“dreadful” = causes fear
“terrible” = burly, mighty
“strong” = powerful
Iron teeth to devour and break; brass nails to tear apart
Not compared to a known animal; it is unique from the rest.
This beast has 10 horns; as Daniel continues to look, he sees another little horn come up. This little horn is responsible for destroying three of the first ten. This horn is identified as a man, but a man whom the Aramaic would indicate is very compelling and domineering in his character and speech. Because “another little horn” is a man, it makes sense that the other ten horns be men.
Bullinger describes the little horn as “a horn of small beginnings.”
There seems to be a direct connection to Revelation 13 that introduces a beast from the sea (Antichrist) with ten horns and having the characteristics of a leopard, bear and lion (as represented by the rulers/kingdoms of this chapter in Daniel).
Revelation 13:1–2 “And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.”
It is quite obvious that in Revelation the four beasts are pictured as being one beast. This seems to be telling us that the Antichrist, the fourth beast, rises to power by subduing, unifying and gaining control of the first three beasts. Again, this implies contemporary kings/kingdoms.
Chris White made an interesting observation: “If you take the beasts in Daniel 7, that is a lion with wings, a bear, a four headed leopard, and a 10 horned beast, and you combined them all into one beast, you would have a 7 headed ten horned beast with characteristics of a bear, leopard and a lion, exactly what we see in Revelation 13.”
“like the eyes of man” – The description seems to be inferring that this horn or king has eyes like a man, yet is different. Note that in Revelation this beast is empowered by the dragon. Scripture is clear in identifying this dragon.
Revelation 12:9 “And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.”
Dan. 7:9 I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire.
Dan. 7:10 A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened.
Daniel is telling us that his vision allowed him to see through to the point where these kings/kingdoms are judged by Almighty God. It’s a scene of a holy and pure God sitting in judgment in a heavenly courtroom. No mercy is to be found in this judgment. It is witnessed by a number beyond Daniel’s ability to express—“thousand thousands…and ten thousand times ten thousand.”
“thrones were cast down” – The Aramaic and the context indicate that these thrones are being positioned as part of the heavenly courtroom. Could this be a reference to the 24 elders in Revelation 4? (See comments in journal on Revelation.)
Ray Stedman notes: “When history reaches its lowest ebb, when the sin of man breaks forth in its most vulgar and most evil forms, then God intends to intervene once again.”
“the books were opened” – This is evidently a record of indictment against those being judged. (There are several records/books kept in heaven. See topical study on the “Book of Life.”)
Scripture reveals that God the Father has delegated all judgment to the Son.
John 5:22 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son….
In my simple mind, I have no problem with “the Ancient of days” referencing Jesus as well as God the Father, although in verse 13 below we are told that this is definitely referring to the Father. It appears that the Father will personally pass judgment on Antichrist and the Son will execute it.
The phrase “the books were opened” seems to be a reference to the great white throne judgment described in Revelation 20. A question arises because this seems directly connected to verse 11 which is describing the destruction of the Antichrist, and this happens prior to the 1000 year reign of Christ—the great white throne judgment happens after the 1000 years. I resolve this in my mind by realizing that the prophets were not always given inspiration according to chronological fulfillment. On the other hand, prophecy of the scripture doesn’t cover every event in history, and this could represent a special judgment against the Antichrist and his false prophet.
Dan. 7:11 I beheld then because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake: I beheld even till the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame.
I think Daniel is still describing the judgment he sees taking place.
Even as judgment is being passed, the “horn,” now identified as “the beast” continues to blaspheme Almighty God. “Great” words make reference in the Aramaic to domineering in character.
The beast, the Antichrist, will be killed and thrown into the lake of fire.
Revelation 19:20 And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.
Dan. 7:12 As concerning the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away: yet their lives were prolonged for a season and time.
“rest of the beasts” – Only four beasts have been identified—the lion, bear, leopard and the diverse beast that represents Antichrist. After the destruction of the Antichrist, the other three are allowed to continue on the world scene for a time. The word “season” is a reference to an appointed time. The word “time” refers to a set time or year. In other words, these three kingdoms will be allowed to exist for a period of time already predetermined by the LORD. This also assumes these beasts to be contemporaries.
Dan. 7:13 I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him.
Dan. 7:14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom thatwhich shall not be destroyed.
After the destruction of Antichrist, we are given a picture of the Son of man (Jesus, God’s son) coming in the clouds of heaven and being ushered into the presence of His Father. “Son of man” was Jesus’ favorite way to reference Himself. He used it in reference to His return to earth as the King of kings.
Matthew 24:30 “And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”
He also used it in response to the high priest when asked if He was the Messiah, the Son of God. In fact, I think he was referencing these very verses in Daniel.
Matthew 26:63–64 “But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.”
This reference to the “clouds of heaven” is one that I think could possibly be associated with the “cloud of witnesses” referenced in Hebrews.
Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses….
This is when Jesus is given His rightful position as ruler of this world; a position that Satan, through deceit, had been allowed to usurp temporarily because of Adam’s sin.
The word for “serve” includes the idea of worship. Jesus’ position as King is eternal; His kingdom will last forever. It is clearly linked to God’s kingdom as referenced in Daniel 2.
Daniel 2:44 “And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.”
Dan. 7:15 I Daniel was grieved in my spirit in the midst of my body, and the visions of my head troubled me.
Dan. 7:16 I came near unto one of them that stood by, and asked him the truth of all this. So he told me, and made me know the interpretation of the things.
Daniel awoke from his dream and was grieved (felt a piercing) in his spirit because of what he had witnessed in his vision. He noticed some other beings close by and moved closer to talk to one of them. He asked him if he knew the truth about all that he had seen. (I can’t help but wonder how he chose the person to ask and why he thought he might know more than Daniel did.) I would assume it was an angel that answered him and interpreted for him (as did Gabriel in 8:16 and 9:21).
I am reminded that in chapter 1 we were told that Daniel “had understanding in all visions and dreams” (vs. 17). Obviously, that understanding came through revelation from God. It seems, however, concerning Daniel’s own dreams and visions that God chose to make that revelation through angels.
It seems clear to me that Daniel did not make a connection to his dream and Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. He asked what it all meant; he did not know.
Dan. 7:17 These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth.
Dan. 7:18 But the saints of the most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever.
Note that the angel declares that the four kings “shall arise.” In other words, the four beasts were four kings that were yet to arise—so Nebuchadnezzar could not be one of them.
Bullinger comments: “The two which had already arisen cannot therefore be included: Babylon and Medo-Persia, which almost (at this time) equalled Babylon in extent. The vision is not continuous history, but the prophecy of a crisis: and refers to the ten toes…of Daniel 2.”
The interpreter first clarifies that the four beasts in Daniel’s vision represent four earthly kings. Their kingdoms are doomed to destruction, however, since “the saints of the most High” (those dedicated, consecrated, sanctified by God) will take possession of kingdom earth. Even though the millennial reign (the initial 1000 years) of Christ’s rule on earth will be interrupted by the creation of new heavens and earth, the kingdom will continue on into eternity after that wonderful event that eliminates forever the curse of sin in God’s creation.
Dan. 7:19 Then I would know the truth of the fourth beast, which was diverse from all the others, exceeding dreadful, whose teeth were of iron, and his nails of brass; which devoured, brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet;
Dan. 7:20 And of the ten horns that were in his head, and of the other which came up, and before whom three fell; even of that horn that had eyes, and a mouth that spake very great things, whose look was more stout than his fellows.
Daniel was greatly interested to know more about the fourth beast that was so terrifying that it couldn’t even be compared to a known animal with similar power and strength. I liked the wording of the NIV for the last part of verse 19: “…the beast that crushed and devoured its victims and trampled underfoot whatever was left.”
This beast has ten horns on his head to begin with, but another horn comes up that causes three of the first ten horns to fall. This seems to indicate that the “little horn” (cf verse 8) begins his rise to power and the establishment of his kingdom by conquering three of the ten, eventually expanding to include all ten.
It is at this point that Focht made another important point. The Aramaic for the word “before” is not a reference to a preceding point in time; it means “in the face of” of “in front of.” In other words, all four kings would face each other at the same time.
The Aramaic for the word “look” indicates that the Antichrist will have an intimidating demeanor; and his speech will be intimidating as well according to the Aramaic for “great things”
Dan. 7:21 I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them;
The ruler represented by this last horn is able to exert physical power over the saints (those who are sanctified by God; believers). This is information that was not included in the description of the vision at the beginning of the chapter.
Stedman notes that from this “we learn that the time of these four nations arising together will be a time of great and intense religious persecution, a time when war will be made against the saints, and quite successfully.
I think this verse corresponds specifically to Revelation 13:7.
Revelation 13:7 “And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them...”
I am reminded that scripture declares that the gates of hell will not prevail against the church.
Matthew 16:18 “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
This seems to be another affirmation that the church is not present at this time. The saints of this time have become believers during the 70th week that is designated as part of God’s plan for Israel as explained in chapter 9.
Daniel 9:24 “Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.”
Context of Revelation 13:7 is in reference to the beast that rises up out of the sea, the Antichrist. As stated previously, it also describes him as having ten horns as described in verse 20 above.
Revelation 13:1 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns….
Dan. 7:22 Until the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom.
The power of this “horn” will be for a limited time—“until the Ancient of days came.” I believe this is a reference to the second coming of Jesus to set up His earthly kingdom. The saints, those who have placed their trust in Jesus, will rule with Him.
1Corinthians 6:2 Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters?
Revelation 5:10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
Revelation 20:4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.
Dan. 7:23 Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces.
In verse 17 the fourth beast is called a king and in this verse it is said to be referencing the kingdom of the beast. (Just as we would equate a country today with its ruler.) This fourth kingdom will be different from all the previous kingdoms. It will be a world-wide kingdom that does not tolerate or recognize independent nations. I think the description of the beast that rises out of the sea in Revelation 13 testifies to the fact that the kingdoms of the first three beasts will become part of the empire of the Antichrist. Whether he conquers them or they submit to him willingly is not addressed. We do know, however, that he will eventually devour the whole earth through great destruction.
Revelation 13:7-8 “…and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him….”
Dan. 7:24 And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise: and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings.
Dan. 7:25 And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.
“time” = a set time, technically, a year
“times” = two years
“dividing” = a half
This fourth kingdom will eventually emerge as a confederation of ten kings. After these ten kings are established, another king, the Antichrist, will come on the scene that will be unique in comparison to the first ten. He will humble or put down three of the first ten kings. I believe this is saying that he will establish prominence by “humbling” or “abasing” three of the kingdoms under his leadership.
This king will be outspoken against the God of heaven and will “wear out” (mentally afflict) those who believe in God. Satan and his followers always take pleasure in blaspheming God.
Revelation 13:4–6 “…they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him? And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.”
Psalms 74:10 “O God, how long shall the adversary reproach? shall the enemy blaspheme thy name for ever?”
Psalms 74:18 “Remember this, that the enemy hath reproached, O LORD, and that the foolish people have blasphemed thy name.”
Ray Stedman posits an interesting possibility: “The Hebrew word that is used for ‘wear out’ is a most remarkable word. It means literally ‘to afflict,’ and always with a mental application. It means, therefore, to afflict mentally, and it very strongly suggests the brain-washing techniques which are now being widely developed, using serums and drugs by which the mind, the thinking, is actually changed.”
The Antichrist will establish himself in place of God by trying to “change times and laws.” Daniel had already declared that only God has the authority to change times and seasons. I noticed that several translations use the singular for “law.” As I thought about that, it made sense that it be a reference to God’s law, specifically the ten commandments. That process is already underway in America and other places throughout the world. He will probably just move to make it official as part of his new world order.
Daniel 2:20–21 “Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding….”
Note that the power and authority of Antichrist will be “given” to him for 3.5 years—“a time and times and the dividing of time.”
This timeframe is confirmed by Revelation 13:5; it states that the Antichrist will be in power for 42 months or 3.5 years. This corresponds to the time that the remnant of Israel is protected in the wilderness during the tribulation for 1260 days or 3.5 years (cf Revelation 12:6).
Revelation 12:6 “And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days.”
It also corresponds to the fact that He breaks the covenant with Israel at the midpoint of the 70th week, which is seven years long, and becomes the one-world ruler of the last 3.5 years (the great tribulation), declaring himself to be God (cf notes at Daniel 9:27). Paul tells us about this in his letter to the Thessalonians.
2 Thessalonians 2:3–4 “Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.”
Dan. 7:26 But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end.
After the 3.5 years, the dominion and authority of this king will be completely destroyed. I think this is a direct reference to verses 9-10.
Dan. 7:27 And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.
After the destruction of the kingdom of Antichrist, the kingdom of the “most High” (Jesus) will be established as an everlasting (time out of mind, to the vanishing point, eternity) kingdom. He will delegate ruling authority to the saints (believers), all of whom will serve (worship) and obey Him.
Stedman notes: “It is the Son of man who comes and takes the kingdom, but then he gives it to the saints of the Most High who join him in ruling over the earth.”
The “everlasting kingdom” mentioned here is directly connected to the “everlasting kingdom” referenced in Daniel 2:44.
Daniel 2:44 “And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.”
Dan. 7:28 Hitherto is the end of the matter.
The interpreter has completed his interpretation.
Dan. 8:1 In the third year of the reign of king Belshazzar a vision appeared unto me, even unto me Daniel, after that which appeared unto me at the first.
The vision given Daniel in this chapter occurred approximately two years after the one in chapter 7.
Dan. 8:2 And I saw in a vision; and it came to pass, when I saw, that I was at Shushan in the palace, which is in the province of Elam; and I saw in a vision, and I was by the river of Ulai.
When Daniel saw this vision, he was at the palace in Shushan (Susa in Greek) in Elam, or Persia, today known as Iran. (Evidently his position required that he travel from time to time, since he obviously wasn’t around for the events that caused Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to be thrown into the fiery furnace related in chapter 3 or he would have been thrown in with them.) Nehemiah served in this palace and Queen Esther lived here. Shushan is directly east of Babylon.
Nehemiah 1:1 The words of Nehemiah the son of Hachaliah. And it came to pass in the month Chisleu, in the twentieth year, as I was in Shushan the palace….
Esther 1:2 That in those days, when the king Ahasuerus sat on the throne of his kingdom, which was in Shushan the palace….
Verse 27 indicates that Daniel was in Shushan on business for the king.
In his vision Daniel saw himself by the river of Ulai.
Dan. 8:3 Then I lifted up mine eyes, and saw, and, behold, there stood before the river a ram which had two horns: and the two horns were high; but one was higher than the other, and the higher came up last.
As Daniel looked, he saw a ram with two high horns; the second horn grew to become the highest horn. In the Hebrew the horn represents power; the height seems to indicate the amount of power. The interpretation of the dream is going to be given by the angel Gabriel (v16).
Dan. 8:4 I saw the ram pushing westward, and northward, and southward; so that no beasts might stand before him, neither was there any that could deliver out of his hand; but he did according to his will, and became great.
Dan. 8:5 And as I was considering, behold, an he goat came from the west on the face of the whole earth, and touched not the ground: and the goat had a notable horn between his eyes.
Dan. 8:6 And he came to the ram that had two horns, which I had seen standing before the river, and ran unto him in the fury of his power.
Dan. 8:7 And I saw him come close unto the ram, and he was moved with choler against him, and smote the ram, and brake his two horns: and there was no power in the ram to stand before him, but he cast him down to the ground, and stamped upon him: and there was none that could deliver the ram out of his hand.
“choler” = bitterness, sorely grieved, provoked
Dan. 8:8 Therefore the he goat waxed very great: and when he was strong, the great horn was broken; and for it came up four notable ones toward the four winds of heaven.
Dan. 8:9 And out of one of them came forth a little horn, which waxed exceeding great, toward the south, and toward the east, and toward the pleasant land.
Dan. 8:10 And it waxed great, even to the host of heaven; and it cast down some of the host and of the stars to the ground, and stamped upon them.
Dan. 8:11 Yea, he magnified himself even to the prince of the host, and by him the daily sacrifice was taken away, and the place of his sanctuary was cast down.
Dan. 8:12 And an host was given him against the daily sacrifice by reason of transgression, and it cast down the truth to the ground; and it practised, and prospered.
Commentary provided in conjunction with the explanation by Gabriel in the verses below.
Dan. 8:13 Then I heard one saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain saint which spake, How long shall be the vision concerning the daily sacrifice, and the transgression of desolation, to give both the sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot?
Dan. 8:14 And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.
Many commentators seem to reference the 2300 days spoken of here as applying to the times of Antiochus Epiphanes and the duration of his influence regarding the temple sacrifices. In doing so, they have to count back from the time of the temple’s cleansing by Judas Maccabaeus in December 164 BC to determine when the sacrifices at the temple were stopped. They even disagree as to whether it is speaking of 2300 days or 1150 days (with reference to two sacrifices a day, evening and morning).
I must note before getting to Gabriel’s explanation that beginning at verse 9, I believe the reference shifts to Satan who is indwelling the Antichrist and ruling during the last half of 70th week of Daniel that we know as the great tribulation. (Details of this time period are explained in chapter 9.) I say Satan because he is credited with casting down some of the stars of heaven (angels that followed him) as described in Revelation 12:4.
Revelation 12:3–4 & 9 “And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born….And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.”
This corresponds to verses 10-12. “Stamped” in verse 10 references abuse and oppression—characteristics of the rule of Antichrist.
We also learn from chapter 9 that during that time another temple will be built and once again functioning in Israel. It is with that understanding that I make the following comments.
One way Antichrist “magnifies” himself is to put an end to daily sacrifice in the temple (v11); this is also true of Antiochus. We know that Antichrist will do this specifically 3.5 years after signing the covenant that allows the temple to be rebuilt and the sacrificial system reinstituted.
Daniel 9:27 “And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease….”
V11 “the place of his sanctuary was cast down” – The word his is not in the Hebrew. The sanctuary is referencing the temple as indicated by the reference to daily sacrifices.
History records that Antiochus desecrated the temple by offering a pig on the altar and placing a statue of Zeus there. Antichrist will desecrate the temple by declaring himself God and placing his throne there.
2 Thessalonians 2:4 “Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.”
Notice that verse 12 emphasizes that his acts “cast down truth to the ground.” Those that follow Antichrist have chosen to reject Jesus, to reject the truth. Jesus foretold this very thing.
John 5:43 “I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.”
As did the Apostle Paul.
2 Thessalonians 2:8–10 “And then shall that Wicked be revealed…Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.”
V13 - “How long shall be the vision…” – One morning while listening to the scripture, it occurred to me that the 2300 days referenced the length of time that the temple would exist during the tribulation, a period of 84 months or 2520 days. That would allow for just over 7 months to build the temple after the signing of the 7-year covenant referenced in 9:27. It is interesting to me that verse 11 references the “place” of his sanctuary, and verses 13&14 reference the sanctuary. When I looked up “place,” it made reference to the foundation.
I have read that Chaim Richman of the Temple Institute said that the temple could be built in less than a year (http://kenraggio.com/KRPN-TheThirdTemple.htm).
The word for “cleansed” makes reference to moral cleansing and being turned to righteousness. When the Messiah returns to establish His Kingdom, both the land and the temple foundation will be purified in preparation for the building of the millennial temple (as described in Ezekiel 40-48) and the establishment of His throne.
Zechariah 6:12-13 And speak unto him, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD: Even he shall build the temple of the LORD; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.
Dan. 8:15 And it came to pass, when I, even I Daniel, had seen the vision, and sought for the meaning, then, behold, there stood before me as the appearance of a man.
Dan. 8:16 And I heard a man’s voice between the banks of Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this man to understand the vision.
Dan. 8:17 So he came near where I stood: and when he came, I was afraid, and fell upon my face: but he said unto me, Understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end shall be the vision.
It would seem that Daniel sees a figure that resembles a man and hears another voice give instruction to the man that Daniel sees, identified as Gabriel, to explain the dream to Daniel. This is the first time in scripture that an angel is named.
Daniel fell to the ground in fear when Gabriel approached him. This would seem to indicate that although he looked like a man, there must have been something “unreal” or supernatural about him that caused Daniel to fear.
Gabriel tells Daniel that what he saw was concerning “the time of the end.” The word for end includes the idea of “extremity,” so I would phrase that as at the end of time. It conveyed to Daniel that it would be after his lifetime.
Dan. 8:18 Now as he was speaking with me, I was in a deep sleep on my face toward the ground: but he touched me, and set me upright.
This verse seems to indicate that when Daniel fell to his face in the previous verse, he had actually passed out—“he was in a deep sleep.” As he began talking to Daniel, Gabriel had awakened Daniel by picking him up.
Dan. 8:19 And he said, Behold, I will make thee know what shall be in the last end of the indignation: for at the time appointed the end shall be.
“end” = the last or end, the future, posterity, (latter) end (time)
“indignation” = fury (especially God’s displeasure with sin)
Gabriel is basically telling Daniel that he is going to explain to him what is going to happen in the last days on earth before Jesus the Messiah comes to reign as King, the time of God’s wrath on the wicked, that time being already fixed in the plan of God.
Dan. 8:20 The ram which thou sawest having two horns are the kings of Media and Persia.
This explanation goes with verses 3 and 4 above. The Medo-Persian Empire seemed to be invincible as it continued to expand its control.
I think the two horns are a direct reference to the ruling authority exerted by the combined kingdom. I think the highest horn represents Persia since their leaders ruled for the longest period of time.
Adam Clarke makes note that the ram was the symbol of the Persians and that their empire was expanded through wars to the west, north and south as stated in verse 4. “The principal theater of their wars, says Calmet, was against the Scythians, northward; against the Greeks, westward; and against the Egyptians, southward.”
Interesting observations from Joe Focht:
Babylon divided their kingdom and named them after signs in the zodiac. Persia was named after Aires the Ram; and Macedonia (Greece) was named after Capricorn the goat.
The Persians wore helmets with two rams horns when going into battle.
Dan. 8:21 And the rough goat is the king of Grecia: and the great horn that is between his eyes is the first king.
This verse seems to be the main point of verses 5-7. Earlier verses tell us that this he goat conquered with great speed—his feet “touched not the ground.” Research indicates that he was prompted to attack when the Medo-Persian ruler started invading the territories of Greece. The great horn of the he goat is representative of Alexander the Great. Alexander and his armies came against Medo-Persia swiftly and powerfully and achieved great victory (v7) as noted in the previous chapter.
Again, Adam Clarke supplies more information: “…a goat was a very proper symbol of the Grecian or Macedonian people. Newton very properly observes that, two hundred years before the time of Daniel, they were called Aegeadae, the goats‘ people….”
Dan. 8:22 Now that being broken, whereas four stood up for it, four kingdoms shall stand up out of the nation, but not in his power.
This verse corresponds to verse 8. History reveals that Alexander died in Babylon of a fever soon after he had established a great empire. Since Alexander died without an heir (“not in his power”), his kingdom was divided among four of his generals.
Seleucus = Syria, Israel, Babylonia, and Media
Cassander = Macedonia and Greece
Ptolemy = Egypt, Cyprus, and parts of Asia Minor
Lysimachus = Thrace, Lydia, Cappadocia, and the northern parts of Asia Minor
Joe Focht made an interesting observation. He noted that because of Alexander, Koine Greek became the universal language throughout the world. He was also responsible for the building of thousand of miles of paved roads throughout his empire. These two things greatly facilitated the spread of the gospel by the apostles throughout the early church.
Dan. 8:23 And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors are come to the full, a king of fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, shall stand up.
Dan. 8:24 And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practise, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people.
Dan. 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand.
I think it is important to understand that Gabriel is interpreting Daniel’s dream. Verses 20-22 interpret verses 3-8; verses 23-25 interpret verses 9-12.
Because of the phrase “in the latter time of their kingdom” (v23), most commentators equate this king with Antiochus Epiphanes of the Seleucid kingdom, a type of the last “Antichrist” who will rise to power during the tribulation. I agree that Antiochus is a type of the Antichrist; however, I believe that the primary reference is to Antichrist.
I agree that verse 9 seems to be specifically referring to Antiochus…
“And out of one of them came forth a little horn, which waxed exceeding great, toward the south, and toward the east, and toward the pleasant land.”
…however, the context of his interpretation seems to indicate that Gabriel is looking past the type to the antitype. Maybe the Antichrist will rise to power in like manner. Considering all that is taking place in that part of the world today, that makes sense to me.
It is also interesting to me to note that the little horn arises from the Greek empire. Considering the fact that Antiochus is an obvious type of Antichrist, this could also be a clue as to the area from which Antichrist will emerge. Since this area was absorbed by the Roman Empire, he would be considered a Roman as well in connection with Daniel’s prophecy in chapter 9. In that chapter Gabriel describes the Antichrist as coming from the people that destroy Jerusalem and the temple—the Romans.
Daniel 9:26 “And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary….”
In the explanation of the 70 weeks determined upon Daniel’s people, the Jews, one of the reasons given for that period of 70 weeks is “to finish the transgression and to make an end of sins” (9:24); this would correspond to the phrase “when the transgressors are come to the full.” I do not think this description applies to Antiochus. The wickedness of man will reach its zenith under the rule of Antichrist.
That he will be a “king of fierce countenance” (v23) describes Antichrist as strong, greedy and powerful according to the Hebrew. This was also true of Antiochus.
V23 “understanding dark sentences” – The Hebrew indicates that this man will be able to answer hard questions and an expert at trickery and riddles. I think this refers specifically to Antichrist who will be indwelt by the father of lies and master of deceit. Antiochus may have tried to present himself in a positive light at first, but he was quickly revealed to be a tyrant. What you saw was what you got; no trickery attempted.
V24 “his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power” – I believe this is another phrase that points directly to Antichrist. He is given his power by the dragon, Satan.
Revelation 13:2 “And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.”
Revelation 12:9 “And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.”
V24 “he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practice, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people” – The Hebrew for “wonderfully” references the use of miracles. This too applies only to the Antichrist who will be able to perform “lying wonders.”
2 Thessalonians 2:8–10 “And then shall that Wicked be revealed…Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.”
Even the false prophet and some of the devils that serve him will be allowed to work miracles.
Revelation 13:11–14 “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast”
Revelation 16:14 “For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.”
It will appear that Antichrist is winning since he will be allowed to destroy the mighty and the holy people of God.
Revelation 13:7 “And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.”
V25 “through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand” – “Policy” is a reference to intelligence and success. This is definitely applicable to Antichrist. “Craft” is again a reference to his skill in deceit as addressed above.
V25 “he shall magnify himself in his heart” – This leader is described as full of pride and I think can be truthfully applied to both Antiochus and Antichrist.
V25 “by peace he shall destroy many” – I believe this specifically applies to Antichrist. We know that he comes to power by confirming a covenant of peace with Israel and being lauded as a peacemaker worldwide. His true character will eventually be revealed and the “man of peace” will prove to be a megalomaniac.
V25 “he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes” corresponds with “he magnified himself even to the prince of the host” – Again, I believe this is specific to Antichrist. There is no question that Jesus is the Prince of princes. The “prince of the host” is a reference to Jesus as Commander in Chief of the angelic forces.
Revelation 13:5-7 “And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.”
V25 “broken without hand” – This is true of both Antiochus and Antichrist. Antiochus died as a result of an intestinal infection, not as a result of war or the action of any man. Antichrist is destroyed by the supernatural power of Christ, not by the hand of man.
2 Thessalonians 2:8 “And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming….”
Dan. 8:26 And the vision of the evening and the morning which was told is true: wherefore shut thou up the vision; for it shall be for many days.
Evidently, Daniel’s vision lasted for a day; so it would seem that he was probably summarizing in writing what he saw. The Hebrew for “shut thou up” indicates to keep secret. Why should he keep it secret? Because it didn’t apply to those living at that time; it was about the end times, as stated in verses 17 and 19.
Dan. 8:27 And I Daniel fainted, and was sick certain days; afterward I rose up, and did the king’s business; and I was astonished at the vision, but none understood it.
After seeing the vision, Daniel fainted and got sick (weak, afflicted, grieved) for several days. When he regained his strength, he resumed his duties for the king. The word “it” is not in the Hebrew; I think it is a bad addition. Daniel was astonished (stupefied, stunned) at what he had seen. Evidently, his thoughts were reflected in his countenance and/or actions, and people didn’t understand why he looked or acted like he did. He was told to keep the vision secret; and based on his character throughout the rest of the book, I do not believe he shared it with others at that time. He was obviously led by the Spirit to write what he had seen for the benefit of those who would live in “the time of the end.”
It’s interesting that the focus of this vision is said to be for the end times, yet it seems to be discussing Medo-Persia and Greece. This all leads me to believe that there is more to be found in this narrative regarding Antichrist, in particular, and end time events.
I was recently (2004) reading a book by Arthur Pink, and he made reference to a verse that I think provides insight here.
Ecclesiastes 1:9 The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
I’m understanding more and more that there are many layers of application in scripture—especially in the study of prophecy.
See Topical Study “Antichrist” that traces the history of Antichrist based on the type of Antiochus Epiphanes.