The term "Little Horn" is a prophetic symbol found in the Book of Daniel, specifically in Daniel 7 and Daniel 8. This symbol has been the subject of much interpretation and discussion among biblical scholars and theologians. The Little Horn is often associated with a powerful, blasphemous ruler who arises from among other leaders and exerts significant influence and persecution against God's people.

Biblical References:

1. Daniel 7:8 : "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."

2. Daniel 7:20-21 : "I 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 that looked more imposing than the others and had eyes and a mouth that spoke words of arrogance. As I watched, this horn was waging war against the saints and prevailing against them."

3. Daniel 8:9-12 : "From one of these horns a little horn emerged and grew extensively toward the south and the east and toward the Beautiful Land. It grew as high as the host of heaven and cast down some of the host and some of the stars to the earth, and it trampled them. It set itself up to be as great as the Prince of the host; it took away the daily sacrifice from Him, and the place of His sanctuary was thrown down. Because of rebellion, the host, together with the daily sacrifice, was given over to the horn; and it flung truth to the ground and prospered in whatever it did."

Interpretation and Significance:

The Little Horn is often interpreted as a symbol of a future oppressive power or ruler who will rise to prominence and challenge the authority of God. In Daniel 7, the Little Horn emerges from the fourth beast, which is commonly understood to represent a powerful kingdom or empire. The horn's actions, such as speaking arrogantly and waging war against the saints, suggest a figure who opposes God's people and seeks to undermine divine authority.

In Daniel 8, the Little Horn arises from one of the four notable horns of the goat, which is typically associated with the Greek Empire following the division of Alexander the Great's kingdom. This horn's actions, including the cessation of the daily sacrifice and the desecration of the sanctuary, are seen as a direct affront to the worship and practices of God's people.

Historical and Eschatological Views:

Historically, some interpreters have identified the Little Horn with specific historical figures, such as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid king known for his persecution of the Jews and desecration of the Second Temple. This view sees the Little Horn as a type or foreshadowing of future antichrist figures.

Eschatologically, the Little Horn is often linked to the Antichrist, a future end-times ruler who will oppose Christ and persecute believers. This interpretation aligns with the broader biblical narrative of a final confrontation between the forces of good and evil before the establishment of God's eternal kingdom.

Theological Themes:

The Little Horn narrative emphasizes themes of divine sovereignty, judgment, and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. Despite the temporary success and arrogance of the Little Horn, the prophetic vision assures believers of God's control over history and the eventual vindication of His people. The Little Horn serves as a reminder of the ongoing spiritual battle and the need for faithfulness and perseverance among the saints.