Daniel's vision of the four beasts is a significant prophetic revelation found in the Book of Daniel, chapter 7. This vision is a cornerstone of biblical eschatology and provides insight into the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms and the ultimate establishment of God's eternal kingdom.

Context and Setting

The vision occurs during the first year of Belshazzar, king of Babylon, as Daniel receives a dream and visions while lying on his bed. This period is marked by political turmoil and the impending fall of the Babylonian Empire. Daniel, a Jewish exile serving in the Babylonian court, is given a glimpse into the future through this divine revelation.

The Vision Described

In Daniel 7:2-3 , Daniel recounts, "In my vision at night I looked, and there before me were the four winds of heaven churning up the great sea. Four great beasts, each different from the others, came up out of the sea."

1. The First Beast: The first beast is described as being like a lion with eagle's wings. As Daniel watches, its wings are torn off, and it is lifted from the ground to stand on two feet like a man, and a human mind is given to it (Daniel 7:4). This beast is often interpreted as representing the Babylonian Empire, with the lion symbolizing strength and the wings indicating swiftness. The transformation into a human-like figure may symbolize the humbling of Nebuchadnezzar, as recorded in Daniel 4.

2. The Second Beast: The second beast resembles a bear, raised up on one side, with three ribs in its mouth between its teeth. It is told to "Get up, and devour much flesh" (Daniel 7:5). This beast is commonly associated with the Medo-Persian Empire, with the uneven posture representing the dominance of Persia over Media. The three ribs may symbolize the major conquests of this empire.

3. The Third Beast: The third beast is like a leopard with four wings on its back and four heads, and it is given authority to rule (Daniel 7:6). This beast is typically identified with the Greek Empire under Alexander the Great. The leopard's speed and the four wings suggest the rapid expansion of Alexander's conquests, while the four heads may represent the division of his empire among his four generals after his death.

4. The Fourth Beast: The fourth beast is described as terrifying, frightening, and exceedingly strong, with large iron teeth. It devours, crushes, and tramples its victims. It is different from the previous beasts and has ten horns (Daniel 7:7). This beast is often linked to the Roman Empire, known for its unmatched power and influence. The ten horns are interpreted as ten kings or kingdoms that arise from this empire.

The Little Horn

Among the ten horns, another horn, a little one, emerges and uproots three of the first horns. This horn has eyes like a man and a mouth that speaks boastfully (Daniel 7:8). This figure is frequently associated with the Antichrist, a future ruler who will oppose God and His people.

The Ancient of Days and the Son of Man

The vision shifts to a heavenly scene where the Ancient of Days takes His seat, and the court is seated. The books are opened, and the fourth beast is judged and destroyed (Daniel 7:9-11). The Son of Man approaches the Ancient of Days and is given authority, glory, and sovereign power. All nations worship Him, and His dominion is everlasting (Daniel 7:13-14). This passage is seen as a prophecy of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who will establish God's eternal kingdom.

Interpretation and Significance

Daniel is troubled by the vision and seeks understanding. An angelic being provides the interpretation, explaining that the four beasts represent four kingdoms that will rise from the earth. However, the saints of the Most High will receive the kingdom and possess it forever (Daniel 7:17-18).

This vision underscores the transient nature of earthly powers and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over history and His promise to establish a kingdom that will never be destroyed.