Daniel 7 Summary Daniel's VisionsVerses 1 – Setting and Dream Recorded Verses 2–3 – Four Beasts Rise from the Sea Verse 4 – The Winged Lion Verse 5 – The Lopsided Bear Verse 6 – The Four-Headed Leopard Verse 7 – The Terrifying Fourth Beast Verse 8 – The Arrogant Little Horn Verses 9–10 – The Ancient of Days on His Throne Verses 11–12 – Judgment on the Beasts Verses 13–14 – The Son of Man Receives His Kingdom Verses 15–18 – The Angel’s First Explanation Verses 19–22 – Details about the Fourth Beast and Horn Verses 23–27 – Final Interpretation and Victory of the Saints Verse 28 – Daniel’s Reaction Daniel 7, a riveting chapter of prophetic revelation, sees the Prophet Daniel envision a series of events in the spiritual realm. The chapter revolves around his dream of four distinct beasts arising from the sea and the subsequent divine judgment. Among the vivid imagery, this chapter contains one of the first clear depictions of the Messiah as "the Son of Man," and the promise of the everlasting Kingdom of God given to the saints. Historical Setting • First year of Belshazzar places the chapter in roughly 553 BC, about 14 years before Babylon falls (Daniel 5). • Daniel, captured in 605 BC as a youth (Daniel 1:1), is now in his late sixties. • The dream precedes chapters 5 and 6 chronologically, showing that God revealed the fall of empires long before they occurred. Overview of the Four Empires 1. Babylon (Lion with wings) – Lions with wings decorate the Ishtar Gate, now in Berlin’s Pergamon Museum. – Wings torn off hint at Nebuchadnezzar’s humbling (Daniel 4). 2. Medo-Persia (Bear raised on one side) – Raised side reflects Persia’s dominance over Media (cf. Daniel 8:3). – Three ribs likely point to major conquests: Lydia (546 BC), Babylon (539 BC), and Egypt (525 BC). 3. Greece (Four-winged leopard) – Alexander’s rapid conquests “flew” across the ancient world (334-323 BC). – After his death, the empire split among four generals (Cassander, Lysimachus, Seleucus, Ptolemy). 4. Rome and its future extension (Terrifying beast) – Iron teeth echo the iron legs of Nebuchadnezzar’s statue (Daniel 2:40). – Ten horns picture a later confederation of rulers, still future. The Ancient of Days “His clothing was as white as snow” (7:9). Purity, eternal existence, and absolute authority shine through this courtroom scene. Compare: • Psalm 90:2 — “From everlasting to everlasting You are God.” • Revelation 20:11-12 — another throne, books opened, and final judgment. The Son of Man “One like the Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven” (7:13). • Jesus applies this to Himself (Matthew 24:30; 26:64). • Dominion is “everlasting… that will not pass away” (7:14), mirrored in Revelation 11:15. • The title links deity and humanity: He shares God’s throne yet appears in human form. The Ten Horns and the Little Horn • Ten horns = ten future kings arising out of the fourth empire (7:24). • Little horn = a later ruler who subdues three, speaks “words against the Most High,” and persecutes believers. – Parallel passages: 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:5-7. • His reign lasts “a time, times, and half a time” (three and a half years), identical to 42 months (Revelation 13:5) and 1,260 days (Revelation 12:6). Time, Times, and Half a Time • “Time” = one year, “times” = two, “half a time” = half—total 3½ years. • Matches the latter half of a seven-year period in Daniel 9:27 where sacrifice is halted. Parallels with Daniel 2 • Head of gold = Lion (Babylon) • Silver chest = Bear (Medo-Persia) • Bronze belly/thighs = Leopard (Greece) • Iron legs & iron-clay feet = Fourth beast and ten horns (Rome + final confederation) Both visions end with God’s kingdom crushing and outlasting all human kingdoms. Links to the Book of Revelation • Revelation 13 combines lion, bear, and leopard traits into one beast—picturing a final global system. • Revelation 17:12-14 speaks of ten kings who reign briefly, give power to the beast, and are defeated by the Lamb. • Revelation 20:4-6 echoes Daniel’s theme as saints reign with Christ. Archaeological Insights • Winged lions carved on Babylon’s processional way validate the imagery Daniel used. • Persian bas-reliefs at Persepolis show warriors and animals in devouring poses, consistent with the bear’s command to “devour much flesh.” • Greek coins portray swift leopards and Alexander as ruler “of the whole world.” • Roman military engineering (roads, siege works) illustrates the unstoppable iron-toothed beast. • Clay tablets from Babylon confirm Belshazzar’s coregency with Nabonidus, aligning with Daniel’s dating in verse 1. Lessons for Believers • God foresees and overrules every empire. • Arrogant rulers rise, but their time is limited. • Suffering for faith is real (7:21), yet “the saints… will possess the kingdom” (7:18). • Hope rests not in present governments but in the Son of Man’s everlasting rule. Key Cross-References • Psalm 2 — Nations rage, yet God installs His King. • Isaiah 9:6-7 — Government on Messiah’s shoulders, endless peace. • Micah 4:1-5 — Future kingdom where nations stream to God’s house. • John 5:22 — “The Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son,” matching Daniel’s courtroom scene. • Acts 1:9-11 — Jesus ascends in clouds, promised to return likewise, tying back to Daniel 7:13.
Daniel’s Vision of the Four Beasts 1In the first year of the reign of Belshazzar over Babylon, Daniel had a dream, and visions passed through his mind as he lay on his bed. He wrote down the dream, and this is the summary of his account. 2Daniel declared: “In my vision in the night I looked, and suddenly the four winds of heaven were churning up the great sea.a 3Then four great beasts came up out of the sea, each one different from the others: 4The first beast was like a lion, and it had the wings of an eagle. I watched until its wings were torn off and it was lifted up from the ground and made to stand on two feet like a man and given the mind of a man. 5Suddenly another beast appeared, which looked like a bear. It was raised up on one of its sides, and it had three ribs in its mouth between its teeth. So it was told, ‘Get up and gorge yourself on flesh!’ 6Next, as I watched, suddenly another beast appeared. It was like a leopard, and on its back it had four wings like those of a bird. The beast also had four heads, and it was given authority to rule. 7After this, as I watched in my vision in the night, suddenly a fourth beast appeared, and it was terrifying—dreadful and extremely strong—with large iron teeth. It devoured and crushed; then it trampled underfoot whatever was left. It was different from all the beasts before it, and it had ten horns. 8While I was contemplating the horns, suddenly another horn, a little one, came up among them, and three of the first horns were uprooted before it. This horn had eyes like those of a man and a mouth that spoke words of arrogance. Daniel’s Vision of the Ancient of Days 9As I continued to watch, thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of Days took His seat. His clothing was white as snow, and the hair of His head was like pure wool. His throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze. 10A river of fire was flowing, coming out from His presence. Thousands upon thousands attended Him, and myriads upon myriads stood before Him. The court was convened, 11Then I kept watching because of the arrogant words the horn was speaking. As I continued to watch, the beast was slain, and its body was destroyed and thrown into the blazing fire. 12As for the rest of the beasts, their dominion was removed, but they were granted an extension of life for a season and a time. Daniel’s Vision of the Son of Man 13In my vision in the night I continued to watch, and I saw One like the Son of Manb coming with the clouds of heaven.c He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into His presence. 14And He was given dominion, glory, and kingship, that the people of every nation and language should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and His kingdom is one Daniel’s Visions Interpreted 15I, Daniel, was grieved in my spirit, and the visions in my mind alarmed me. 16I approached one of those who were standing there, and I asked him the true meaning of all this. So he told me the interpretation of these things: 17‘These four great beasts are four kings who will arise from the earth. 18But the saints of the Most High will receive the kingdom and possess it forever—yes, forever and ever.’ 19Then I wanted to know the true meaning of the fourth beast, which was different from all the others—extremely terrifying—devouring and crushing with iron teeth and bronze claws, then trampling underfoot whatever was left. 20I also wanted to know about the ten horns on its head and the other horn that came up, before which three of them fell—the horn whose appearance was more imposing than the others, with eyes and with a mouth that spoke words of arrogance. 21As I watched, this horn was waging war against the saints and prevailing against them, 22until the Ancient of Days arrived and pronounced judgment in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came for them to possess the kingdom. 23This is what he said: ‘The fourth beast is a fourth kingdom that will appear on the earth, different from all the other kingdoms, and it will devour the whole earth, trample it down, and crush it. 24And the ten horns are ten kings who will rise from this kingdom. After them another king, different from the earlier ones, will rise and subdue three kings. 25He will speak out against the Most High and oppress the saints of the Most High, intending to change the appointed times and laws; and the saints will be given into his hand for a time, and times, and half a time. 26But the court will convene, and his dominion will be taken away and completely destroyed forever. 27Then the sovereignty, dominion, and greatness of the kingdoms under all of heaven will be given to the people, the saints of the Most High. His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will serve and obey Him.’ 28Thus ends the matter. As for me, Daniel, my thoughts troubled me greatly, and my face turned pale. But I kept the matter to myself.” Footnotes: 2 a Perhaps the Great Sea, that is, the Mediterranean Sea 13 b Or one like a son of man 13 c See Matthew 24:30, Matthew 26:64, Mark 13:26, Mark 14:62, Luke 21:27, Revelation 1:13, and Revelation 14:14. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Connections to Additional Scriptures Revelation 13This chapter parallels Daniel 7 in its depiction of beasts and the Antichrist, providing further insight into end-time events. Matthew 24:30 Jesus refers to Himself as the Son of Man coming on the clouds, echoing the vision in Daniel 7:13. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 These verses describe the return of Christ and the gathering of believers, resonating with the hope of the eternal kingdom in Daniel 7. Teaching Points The Four BeastsDaniel 7:3-7 describes four great beasts emerging from the sea, each representing a kingdom. These beasts symbolize the successive empires that will rise and fall, demonstrating the transient nature of earthly power. The Ancient of Days In Daniel 7:9-10, the Ancient of Days is depicted as a figure of ultimate authority and judgment. This imagery emphasizes God's eternal sovereignty and His role as the righteous judge over all creation. The Son of Man Daniel 7:13-14 introduces the Son of Man, who is given dominion, glory, and a kingdom that will never be destroyed. This is a prophetic reference to Jesus Christ, highlighting His divine authority and eternal reign. The Little Horn In Daniel 7:8 and 7:24-25, a little horn arises, symbolizing a future ruler who will oppose God and persecute His people. This figure is often associated with the Antichrist in eschatological interpretations. The Saints' Inheritance Daniel 7:18 and 7:27 assure us that the saints of the Most High will receive the kingdom and possess it forever. This promise offers hope and encouragement to believers, affirming their ultimate victory in Christ. Practical Applications Trust in God's SovereigntyRecognize that despite the chaos and uncertainty in the world, God is in control and His plans will prevail. Stand Firm in Faith Be prepared to face opposition and persecution, knowing that God will ultimately vindicate His people. Live with Eternal Perspective Focus on the eternal kingdom of God rather than temporary earthly powers, aligning your life with His purposes. Proclaim the Gospel Share the message of Jesus Christ, the Son of Man, who offers salvation and eternal life to all who believe. People 1. The Ancient of DaysDescription: The Ancient of Days is depicted as a divine figure, representing God Himself. He is described as having clothing "white as snow" and hair "like pure wool," seated on a fiery throne. Scripture: "As I continued to watch, thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of Days took His seat. His clothing was white as snow, and the hair of His head was like pure wool. His throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze." (Daniel 7:9) Hebrew Roots: The term "Ancient of Days" (עַתִּיק יוֹמִין, 'Atiq Yomin) emphasizes the eternal nature and authority of God. 2. The Son of Man Description: The Son of Man is a messianic figure who approaches the Ancient of Days and is given authority, glory, and sovereign power. This figure is often interpreted as a reference to Jesus Christ in Christian theology. Scripture: "In my vision in the night I continued to watch, and I saw One like the Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into His presence." (Daniel 7:13) Hebrew/Aramaic Roots: The term "Son of Man" (בַּר אֱנָשׁ, Bar Enash) is used to denote a human-like figure with divine authority. 3. The Four Beasts Description: These are symbolic representations of four kingdoms or empires that arise from the earth. Each beast has distinct characteristics and is part of Daniel's vision. Scripture: "The four great beasts are four kings who will arise from the earth." (Daniel 7:17) Hebrew/Aramaic Roots: The term "beasts" (חֵיוָה, Chevah) symbolizes powerful and often destructive empires. 4. The Little Horn Description: The little horn emerges from among the ten horns of the fourth beast and is characterized by its arrogance and blasphemous speech. It is often interpreted as a symbol of a future oppressive ruler or antichrist figure. Scripture: "While I was contemplating the horns, suddenly another horn, a little one, came up among them, and three of the first horns were uprooted before it. And this horn had eyes like those of a man and a mouth that spoke words of arrogance." (Daniel 7:8) Hebrew/Aramaic Roots: The "horn" (קֶרֶן, Qeren) is a symbol of power and authority. Places 1. The Great SeaDaniel 7:2: "Daniel declared: 'In my vision in the night I looked, and suddenly the four winds of heaven were churning up the Great Sea.'" The "Great Sea" is often understood to refer to the Mediterranean Sea. In the context of biblical prophecy, it symbolizes the tumultuous and chaotic nature of the nations and peoples of the world. The Hebrew term used here is "הַיָּם הַגָּדוֹל" (hayyam haggadol). 2. Heaven Daniel 7:13: "In my vision in the night I continued to watch, and I saw One like the Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into His presence." "Heaven" in this context refers to the divine realm where God resides. The vision of the "Son of Man" coming with the clouds of heaven signifies a divine authority and presence. The Hebrew word for heaven is "שָׁמַיִם" (shamayim). Events 1. The Vision of the Four BeastsDaniel sees four great beasts coming up from the sea, each different from the others. These beasts represent four kingdoms. The first is like a lion with eagle's wings, the second like a bear, the third like a leopard with four wings and four heads, and the fourth beast is terrifying, powerful, and different from the others, with iron teeth and ten horns (Daniel 7:3-7). 2. The Little Horn Among the ten horns of the fourth beast, a little horn emerges, uprooting three of the first horns. This horn has eyes like a man and a mouth speaking arrogantly (Daniel 7:8). 3. The Ancient of Days Daniel sees the Ancient of Days taking His seat. His clothing is white as snow, and His throne is ablaze with fire. Thousands upon thousands serve Him, and the court is seated, and the books are opened (Daniel 7:9-10). 4. Judgment of the Beasts The fourth beast is slain, and its body is destroyed and given to the burning fire. The other beasts have their dominion taken away, but their lives are prolonged for a season and a time (Daniel 7:11-12). 5. The Son of Man Daniel sees one like a Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approaches the Ancient of Days and is given dominion, glory, and a kingdom, so that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is everlasting and will not pass away (Daniel 7:13-14). 6. Interpretation of the Vision Daniel is troubled by the vision and seeks understanding. An angel explains that the four beasts are four kings that will arise from the earth. The saints of the Most High will receive the kingdom and possess it forever (Daniel 7:15-18). 7. Further Explanation of the Fourth Beast The fourth beast is a fourth kingdom that will be different from all others, devouring the whole earth. The ten horns are ten kings that will arise from this kingdom, and the little horn is another king who will subdue three kings and speak against the Most High, oppressing His saints (Daniel 7:19-25). 8. The Kingdom Given to the Saints The court will sit, and the dominion of the little horn will be taken away and destroyed. The kingdom, dominion, and greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven will be given to the people of the saints of the Most High. His kingdom will be everlasting, and all rulers will serve and obey Him (Daniel 7:26-27). Lessons from Daniel 7 1. God's Sovereignty Over All Kingdoms 2. The Rise and Fall of Earthly Powers 3. The Ancient of Days: A Picture of Divine Authority 4. The Son of Man: A Glimpse of Christ's Kingdom 5. The Saints Will Inherit the Kingdom 6. The Reality of Spiritual Warfare 7. God's Timing is Perfect 8. The Importance of Faithful Witness 9. The Assurance of Final Judgment 10. Hope in the Midst of Trials Topics 1. Daniel's Vision of the Four BeastsDaniel 7 begins with a vision that Daniel has during the first year of King Belshazzar of Babylon. He sees four great beasts coming up from the sea, each different from the others. These beasts symbolize four kingdoms that will rise from the earth. The imagery of beasts is rooted in the Hebrew word "חֵיוָה" (chevah), meaning a living creature or beast. 2. The First Beast: The Lion with Eagle's Wings The first beast is described as a lion with eagle's wings. This beast represents a powerful kingdom, often interpreted as Babylon. The wings being plucked and the beast standing like a man with a human heart symbolizes a transformation or humbling of this kingdom. 3. The Second Beast: The Bear The second beast resembles a bear, raised up on one side with three ribs in its mouth. This beast is often associated with the Medo-Persian Empire. The command to "Arise, devour much flesh" indicates its aggressive conquests. 4. The Third Beast: The Leopard with Four Wings and Four Heads The third beast is like a leopard with four wings and four heads, symbolizing speed and division. This beast is commonly linked to the Greek Empire under Alexander the Great, which was known for its swift conquests and subsequent division into four parts. 5. The Fourth Beast: Terrifying and Dreadful The fourth beast is described as terrifying, dreadful, and exceedingly strong, with iron teeth and ten horns. This beast is often interpreted as the Roman Empire. The ten horns represent ten kings or kingdoms that will arise from this empire. 6. The Little Horn and Its Arrogance Among the ten horns, a little horn emerges, uprooting three of the original horns. This horn has eyes like a man and a mouth speaking arrogantly. It is often seen as a symbol of a future oppressive ruler or antichrist figure. 7. The Ancient of Days Daniel's vision shifts to a heavenly scene where the Ancient of Days takes His seat. His appearance is described with imagery of purity and authority, and He is attended by thousands. This represents God's eternal sovereignty and judgment. 8. The Judgment and Destruction of the Fourth Beast The court sits in judgment, and the fourth beast is slain and its body destroyed. This signifies the ultimate defeat of oppressive earthly powers by divine judgment. 9. The Son of Man Daniel sees "one like a son of man" coming with the clouds of heaven, who is given dominion, glory, and a kingdom. This figure is often identified with the Messiah, Jesus Christ, and His eternal reign. The term "son of man" (בַּר אֱנָשׁ, bar enash) emphasizes both humanity and divine authority. 10. The Interpretation of the Vision An angel provides Daniel with the interpretation of the vision, explaining that the four beasts are four kingdoms that will arise, but the saints of the Most High will receive the kingdom and possess it forever. 11. The Persecution of the Saints The little horn makes war against the saints and prevails for a time, symbolizing a period of persecution for God's people. However, the ultimate victory belongs to the saints, as the kingdom is given to them. 12. The Everlasting Kingdom The chapter concludes with the assurance that God's kingdom will be everlasting, and all dominions will serve and obey Him. This emphasizes the ultimate triumph of God's sovereign rule over all earthly powers. Themes 1. Divine Sovereignty and AuthorityDaniel 7 emphasizes God's ultimate control over earthly kingdoms. The vision of the "Ancient of Days" (Daniel 7:9) portrays God as the eternal judge, highlighting His supreme authority. The term "Ancient of Days" in Aramaic, עַתִּיק יוֹמִין (Atiq Yomin), underscores God's eternal nature and sovereign rule over time and history. 2. The Rise and Fall of Earthly Kingdoms The vision of the four beasts (Daniel 7:3-7) represents successive earthly kingdoms, each with its own characteristics and power. This theme illustrates the transient nature of human empires and their ultimate subjection to God's will. The beasts symbolize kingdoms that rise from the "sea," a metaphor for chaos and disorder in the Hebrew context. 3. The Coming of the Son of Man Daniel 7:13-14 introduces the "Son of Man," a messianic figure who receives dominion and an everlasting kingdom. The Aramaic phrase בַּר אֱנָשׁ (Bar Enash) signifies a human-like figure with divine authority, pointing to the anticipated Messiah in Christian theology. 4. Judgment and Justice The vision includes a scene of divine judgment (Daniel 7:10), where the "court was seated, and the books were opened." This theme underscores God's justice and the accountability of nations and individuals before Him. The imagery of books being opened reflects the Hebrew concept of divine records and accountability. 5. Persecution and Suffering of the Saints Daniel 7:21-25 describes the persecution of the "saints of the Most High" by the fourth beast. This theme highlights the trials and tribulations faced by God's people, emphasizing their endurance and faithfulness amidst adversity. The term "saints" (קַדִּישִׁין, Qaddishin) refers to those set apart for God, underscoring their holy calling. 6. The Ultimate Victory of God's Kingdom Despite the temporary power of earthly kingdoms, Daniel 7:27 assures the ultimate victory of God's kingdom, which will be everlasting and given to the saints. This theme reinforces the hope and assurance of God's eternal reign and the participation of His people in His kingdom. The Aramaic word מַלְכוּ (Malku) for "kingdom" emphasizes the divine rule and authority that will prevail. Prayer Points Praise for God's Sovereignty Thank God for His ultimate authority and control over all nations and history. Strength for Believers Wisdom and Discernment Hope in Christ's Return Answering Tough Questions 1. In Daniel 7:2–7, each beast represents a different kingdom—how can we verify these symbolic empires through reliable archaeological or historical records? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the imagery of the four beasts in Daniel's dream relate to the broader theme of spiritual warfare? 2. Discuss the characteristics of the four beasts. How do they symbolize different aspects of worldly kingdoms? 3. Who is the 'Ancient of Days' and what does His role in the vision signify about God's sovereignty? 4. Why is the term 'Son of Man' significant? How does it connect to other parts of the Bible? 5. How does Daniel's reaction to his dream reflect our human struggle with understanding divine revelations? 6. What is the symbolism of the 'little horn'? How might this apply to historical and current worldly leaders? 7. How does the vision of God's final judgment bring both fear and comfort? 8. How is the everlasting kingdom described? How should this affect our lives as believers? 9. What lessons can we learn from the temporary survival of the first three beasts? 10. How do we reconcile the terrifying images of beasts with the promise of an everlasting peaceful kingdom? 11. What do you think is the significance of the Son of Man receiving the Kingdom from the Ancient of Days? 12. How does the image of the Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven inform our understanding of the Messiah's return? 13. How can we find peace in our lives today, knowing the challenges depicted by the fourth beast are yet to come? 14. How can Daniel's vision inform our response to injustice and evil in the world today? 15. How might understanding this vision change the way you interact with secular authorities? 16. How can believers find hope in the prophecy of the saints receiving the Kingdom? 17. How does the 'little horn's' defiance of God mirror actions in our world today? 18. In what ways can we practically prepare for the Kingdom of God in our daily lives? 19. Given Daniel's distress about his vision, how should we handle unsettling revelations or challenging Biblical passages? 20. How does the vision of Daniel 7 shape your understanding of the relationship between earthly and heavenly realms? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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