The vision of the fourth beast is a significant element in the prophetic literature of the Bible, particularly in the Book of Daniel. This vision is found in Daniel 7, where the prophet Daniel receives a dream that reveals the succession of world empires and the ultimate establishment of God's eternal kingdom. The fourth beast, distinct from the others, is described with vivid and terrifying imagery, symbolizing a powerful and oppressive kingdom.

Description of the Fourth Beast

In Daniel 7:7 , the fourth beast is described as "terrifying and dreadful and exceedingly strong. It had large iron teeth; it devoured and crushed, and it trampled underfoot whatever was left. It was different from all the beasts before it, and it had ten horns." This beast represents a kingdom of immense power and brutality, often interpreted as the Roman Empire due to its historical dominance and influence.

The ten horns are significant, symbolizing ten kings or rulers that arise from this kingdom. Daniel 7:8 further elaborates, "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. This horn had eyes like those of a man and a mouth that spoke words of arrogance." This "little horn" is often seen as a representation of a future ruler or antichrist figure, characterized by blasphemy and opposition to God.

The Judgment Scene

The vision progresses to a divine courtroom scene, where the Ancient of Days, a title for God, presides over the judgment of the beast. Daniel 7:9-10 describes this scene: "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. A 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, and the books were opened."

This imagery emphasizes God's sovereignty, holiness, and authority to judge. The opening of the books signifies the divine record of deeds, underscoring the accountability of the beast and its rulers.

The Destruction of the Fourth Beast

The judgment culminates in the destruction of the fourth beast. Daniel 7:11 states, "Then 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." This act of divine retribution signifies the end of the beast's oppressive reign and the eradication of its blasphemous influence.

The destruction of the beast is not only a demonstration of God's justice but also a prelude to the establishment of His everlasting kingdom. Daniel 7:13-14 reveals the coming of "One like a Son of Man," who is given dominion, glory, and a kingdom that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. This figure is widely understood to be a messianic prophecy fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who will reign eternally.

Theological Implications

The judgment and destruction of the fourth beast carry profound theological implications. It affirms the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over earthly powers and the assurance of divine justice. The vision serves as a reminder of the temporal nature of human empires and the eternal sovereignty of God. It also highlights the hope of believers in the coming of Christ's kingdom, where righteousness and peace will prevail.

In the broader biblical narrative, this vision aligns with the eschatological themes found in the Book of Revelation, where similar imagery is used to depict the final defeat of evil and the establishment of God's new creation. The judgment of the fourth beast thus stands as a testament to God's redemptive plan and the fulfillment of His promises to His people.