After 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. After this, as I was watching in the night visionsThe phrase "After this" indicates a sequence of events, suggesting that Daniel's visions are progressive revelations. The "night visions" imply a divine revelation given during a time of rest, symbolizing the spiritual insight that comes when the world is quiet. In the Hebrew context, night often represents a time of mystery and divine encounter, as seen in other biblical narratives like Jacob's dream ( Genesis 28:10-17). suddenly a fourth beast appeared
The word "suddenly" conveys an unexpected and abrupt appearance, emphasizing the element of surprise and the dramatic nature of the vision. The "fourth beast" is distinct from the previous three, representing a new and unprecedented power. Historically, this beast is often interpreted as the Roman Empire, known for its vast and unparalleled influence. frightening and dreadful, and incredibly strong
These descriptors highlight the terrifying nature of the beast. "Frightening" and "dreadful" suggest an overwhelming presence that instills fear, while "incredibly strong" points to its unmatched power. In a historical context, the Roman Empire was indeed formidable, known for its military might and expansive reach. with large iron teeth
The "large iron teeth" symbolize the beast's ability to destroy and consume with great efficiency. Iron, a strong and durable metal, represents the strength and resilience of the empire. This imagery aligns with the description of the fourth kingdom in Daniel 2:40, which is also characterized by iron. It devoured and crushed
The actions "devoured and crushed" indicate a relentless and aggressive nature. This beast not only consumes but also pulverizes, leaving nothing intact. This reflects the historical reality of the Roman Empire's conquests, which often involved complete domination and assimilation of other cultures. and anything that was left it trampled with its feet
The phrase "trampled with its feet" suggests utter destruction and disregard for what remains. This imagery conveys the idea of total subjugation and the erasure of any resistance. The Roman Empire was known for its ability to suppress uprisings and maintain control over its vast territories. It was different from all the beasts before it
This distinction highlights the unique nature of the fourth beast. Unlike the previous empires, the Roman Empire's structure, governance, and impact were unparalleled. Its legal and political systems have influenced Western civilization for centuries. and it had ten horns
The "ten horns" are often interpreted as ten kings or kingdoms that arise from this empire, as explained later in Daniel 7:24. Horns in biblical symbolism often represent power and authority. This detail points to the complexity and division within the Roman Empire, which eventually fragmented into various states and powers. Persons / Places / Events 1. DanielThe prophet who receives the vision. He is a key figure in the Old Testament, known for his faithfulness and wisdom. 2. Fourth BeastRepresents a powerful and terrifying kingdom, distinct from the previous three beasts in Daniel's vision. It is characterized by its strength and destructive power. 3. Ten HornsSymbolic of ten kings or rulers that arise from this kingdom, indicating a division of power or a coalition of leaders. 4. Vision in the NightThe setting in which Daniel receives this revelation, emphasizing the mysterious and divine nature of the prophecy. 5. Iron TeethSymbolize the beast's ability to destroy and dominate, reflecting the strength and ruthlessness of the kingdom it represents. Teaching Points Understanding Prophetic ImageryRecognize that biblical prophecy often uses symbolic language to convey deeper truths about spiritual and historical realities. God's Sovereignty Over KingdomsDespite the terrifying nature of the beast, remember that God is ultimately in control of all earthly powers and will establish His eternal kingdom. The Reality of Spiritual WarfareThe vision reminds us of the ongoing battle between God's kingdom and worldly powers, calling believers to remain vigilant and faithful. Hope in God's Ultimate VictoryWhile the vision depicts a powerful and destructive kingdom, it also points to the eventual defeat of all opposition to God's rule. Faithfulness in Uncertain TimesLike Daniel, we are called to trust in God's plan and remain steadfast in our faith, even when faced with daunting challenges. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the description of the fourth beast in Daniel 7:7 compare to the other beasts in Daniel's vision, and what might this signify about its nature? 2. In what ways does the imagery of the ten horns help us understand the structure and influence of the kingdom represented by the fourth beast? 3. How can the connection between Daniel 7 and Revelation 13 deepen our understanding of biblical prophecy concerning end-times events? 4. What practical steps can we take to remain faithful and hopeful in the face of worldly powers that seem overwhelming? 5. How does the assurance of God's ultimate victory over all kingdoms influence our daily lives and decisions as believers? Connections to Other Scriptures Revelation 13The description of the beast in Revelation shares similarities with Daniel's vision, suggesting a connection between the two prophetic books regarding end-times kingdoms. Daniel 2The vision of the statue with iron legs in Nebuchadnezzar's dream parallels the iron teeth of the fourth beast, indicating a continuity in the prophetic message about future empires. Psalm 2The imagery of rulers and nations opposing God aligns with the depiction of the beast's destructive power and the eventual triumph of God's kingdom. People Belshazzar, DanielPlaces BabylonTopics Animal, Animals, Awesome, Beast, Beasts, Behold, Bits, Brake, Break, Broke, Causing, Consumed, Crushed, Crushing, Devoured, Different, Diverse, Dreadful, Exceeding, Exceedingly, Extremely, Fear, Fearful, Former, Fourth, Frightening, Full, Horns, Iron, Kept, Large, Night-visions, Pieces, Power, Powerful, Remainder, Remnant, Residue, Rest, Seeing, Stamped, Stamping, Strong, Teeth, Ten, Terrible, Terrifying, Trampled, Troubling, Underfoot, Victims, Vision, Visions, Whatever, YeaDictionary of Bible Themes Daniel 7:7 4336 iron
5189 teeth Daniel 7:1-7 7735 leaders, political Daniel 7:1-18 1469 visions Daniel 7:2-7 1670 symbols Daniel 7:2-8 4627 creatures Daniel 7:3-7 4609 beast, the Daniel 7:7-8 9115 antichrist, the Daniel 7:7-25 4654 horn Library Christ's Own Testimony Concerning Himself.
THERE is but one rational explanation, of this sublime mystery; and this is found in Christ's own testimony concerning his superhuman and divine origin and character.[49]49 This testimony challenges at once our highest regard and belief from the absolute veracity which no one ever denied him, or could deny, without destroying at once the very foundation of his universally conceded moral purity and greatness. Christ strongly asserts his humanity, and calls himself; about eighty times in the Gospels, …
Philip Schaff—The Person of ChristThe Christ of the Gospels. By Rev. Professor Schaff.
THE life and character of Jesus Christ is truly the Holy of Holies in the history of the world. Eighteen hundred years have passed away since he, in the fullness of time, appeared on this earth to redeem a fallen race from sin and death, and to open a never-ceasing fountain of righteousness and life. The ages before him anxiously awaited his coming as "the Desire of all nations;" the ages after him proclaim his glory, and ever extend his dominion. The noblest and best of men under every clime hold …
Philip Schaff—The Romance of M. Renan, and the Christ of the Gospels The Apocalypse.
1. The word Apocalypse (Greek Apokalupsis) signifies Revelation, the title given to the book in our English version as well from its opening word as from its contents. Of all the writings of the New Testament that are classed by Eusebius among the disputed books (Antilegomena, chap. 5. 6), the apostolic authorship of this is sustained by the greatest amount of external evidence; so much so that Eusebius acknowledges it as doubtful whether it should be classed among the acknowledged or …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible The Captivity of Judah.
Eze., Dan., Lam. The Ten Tribes Lost. After the fall of Samaria we hear but little of the ten tribes. They were carried off into the regions of Ninevah by the Assyrians. All effort to locate them has failed and no doubt will fail. Sargon, in an inscription found at Ninevah, said that he carried away into captivity 27,290. These were perhaps leaders of Israel whom he thought might lead a revolt. He sent others back to take their place and the Israelites seemed to have mingled with the races about …
Josiah Blake Tidwell—The Bible Period by Period Communion Again Broken --Restoration
Cant. v. 2-vi.10. The fourth section commences with an address of the bride to the daughters of Jerusalem, in which she narrates her recent sad experience, and entreats their help in her trouble. The presence and comfort of her Bridegroom are again lost to her; not this time by relapse into worldliness, but by slothful self-indulgence. We are not told of the steps that led to her failure; of how self again found place in her heart. Perhaps spiritual pride in the achievements which grace enabled her …
J. Hudson Taylor—Union and Communion The Ecclesiastical Trial
Over the Kedron, up the slope to the city, through the gates, along the silent streets, the procession passed, with Jesus in the midst; midnight stragglers, perhaps, hurrying forward from point to point to ask what was ado, and peering towards the Prisoner's face, before they diverged again towards their own homes.[1] He was conducted to the residence of the high priest, where His trial ensued. Jesus had to undergo two trials--the one ecclesiastical, the other civil; the one before Caiaphas the …
James Stalker—The Trial and Death of Jesus Christ Jesus at Capernaum.
Beset by an idea, gradually becoming more and more imperious and exclusive, Jesus proceeds henceforth with a kind of fatal impassibility in the path marked out by his astonishing genius and the extraordinary circumstances in which he lived. Hitherto he had only communicated his thoughts to a few persons secretly attracted to him; henceforward his teaching was sought after by the public. He was about thirty years of age.[1] The little group of hearers who had accompanied him to John the Baptist had, …
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus The Danger of Deviating from Divine Institutions.
"Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ." St. Paul was the apostle of the Gentiles. The care of the churches gathered among them devolved particularly on him. At the writing of this epistle he had no personal acquaintance with the church to which it is addressed.* Epaphras, a bishop of the Colossians, then his fellow prisoner at Rome, had made him acquainted with their state, and the danger …
Andrew Lee et al—Sermons on Various Important Subjects Jesus Stills the Storm.
(Sea of Galilee; Same Day as Last Section) ^A Matt. VIII. 18-27; ^B Mark IV. 35-41; ^C Luke VIII. 22-25. ^b 35 And that day, { ^c one of those days,} ^b when the even was come [about sunset], ^a when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he gave commandment to depart unto the other side. { ^b he saith unto them, Let us go over unto the other side.} [Wearied with a day of strenuous toil, Jesus sought rest from the multitude by passing to the thinly settled on the east side of Galilee.] ^a 19 And there …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel A vision of the King.
ONE of the most blessed occupations for the believer is the prayerful searching of God's holy Word to discover there new glories and fresh beauties of Him, who is altogether lovely. Shall we ever find out all which the written Word reveals of Himself and His worthiness? This wonderful theme can never be exhausted. The heart which is devoted to Him and longs through the presence and indwelling of the Holy Spirit to be closer to the Lord, to hear and know more of Himself, will always find something …
Arno Gaebelein—The Lord of Glory The Situation after the Council of Nicæa.
The council (a) had testified, by its horrified and spontaneous rejection of it, that Arianism was a novelty subversive of the Christian faith as they had received it from their fathers. They had (b) banished it from the Church by an inexorable test, which even the leading supporters of Arius had been induced to subscribe. In the years immediately following, we find (c) a large majority of the Eastern bishops, especially of Syria and Asia Minor, the very regions whence the numerical strength of the …
Athanasius—Select Works and Letters or Athanasius A Treatise of the Fear of God;
SHOWING WHAT IT IS, AND HOW DISTINGUISHED FROM THAT WHICH IS NOT SO. ALSO, WHENCE IT COMES; WHO HAS IT; WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS; AND WHAT THE PRIVILEGES OF THOSE THAT HAVE IT IN THEIR HEARTS. London: Printed for N. Ponder, at the Peacock in the Poultry, over against the Stocks market: 1679. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom," and "a fountain of life"--the foundation on which all wisdom rests, as well as the source from whence it emanates. Upon a principle …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 The Birth and Early Life of John the Baptist.
(Hill Country of Judæa, b.c. 5.) ^C Luke I. 57-80. ^c 57 Now Elisabeth's time was fulfilled that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son. 58 And her neighbors and her kinsfolk heard that the Lord had magnified his mercy towards her [mercy in granting a child; great mercy in granting so illustrious a child] ; and they rejoiced with her. 59 And it came to pass on the eighth day [See Gen. xvii. 12; Lev. xii. 3; Phil. iii. 5. Male children were named at their circumcision, probably …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Second visit to Nazareth - the Mission of the Twelve.
It almost seems, as if the departure of Jesus from Capernaum marked a crisis in the history of that town. From henceforth it ceases to be the center of His activity, and is only occasionally, and in passing, visited. Indeed, the concentration and growing power of Pharisaic opposition, and the proximity of Herod's residence at Tiberias [3013] would have rendered a permanent stay there impossible at this stage in our Lord's history. Henceforth, His Life is, indeed, not purely missionary, but He has …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah History of the Interpretation.
1. AMONG THE JEWS. This History, as to its essential features, might, a priori, be sketched with tolerable certainty. From the nature of the case, we could scarcely expect that the Jews should have adopted views altogether erroneous as to the subject of the prophecy in question; for the Messiah appears in it, not in His humiliation, but in His glory--rich in gifts and blessings, and Pelagian self-delusion will, a priori, return an affirmative answer to the question as to whether one is …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament His Future Work
The Lord Jesus Christ, who finished the work on earth the Father gave Him to do, who is now bodily present in the highest heaven, occupying the Father's throne and exercising His priesthood in behalf of His people, is also King. To Him belongeth a Kingdom and a kingly Glory. He has therefore a kingly work to do. While His past work was foretold by the Spirit of God and His priestly work foreshadowed in the Old Testament, His work as King and His glorious Kingdom to come are likewise the subjects …
A. C. Gaebelein—The Work Of Christ Links Daniel 7:7 NIVDaniel 7:7 NLTDaniel 7:7 ESVDaniel 7:7 NASBDaniel 7:7 KJV
Daniel 7:7 Commentaries
Bible Hub |
