Vision of the Four Beasts: Understanding Kingdoms, Judgment, and the Son of Man

Executive Summary ✨

Daniel 7 presents a powerful and complex vision, one that unveils the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms symbolized by four terrifying beasts. This vision, a cornerstone of apocalyptic literature, details the transition from these worldly powers to the eternal kingdom of God, ruled by the Son of Man. This chapter emphasizes God’s sovereignty over history, the ultimate triumph of good over evil, and the unwavering hope for believers amidst persecution. It’s a call to discern the signs of the times, to remain steadfast in faith, and to anticipate the glorious coming of Christ. The enduring message of Daniel 7 is that despite the apparent dominance of evil, God’s eternal kingdom will ultimately prevail, bringing justice and everlasting peace to His people. Understanding the Vision of the Four Beasts is critical to navigating the complexities of earthly power and keeping our eyes fixed on the eternal reward.

Daniel 7 opens a window into the prophetic realm, revealing God’s plan for humanity through a series of symbolic visions. It is a profound revelation of the unfolding of history, the rise and fall of empires, and the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom. This chapter provides immense spiritual comfort to those facing trials and tribulations, reminding us that God is in control, even when earthly powers seem overwhelming. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this chapter, unlocking its profound theological and practical implications for our lives.

Commentary Sections

Daniel 7:1 – The Vision’s Setting

“In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon, Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, and told the sum of the matters.” (KJV)
“In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon, Daniel had a dream and visions in his head while on his bed. Then he wrote down the dream, relating the events in detail.” (NKJV)

This verse sets the stage for Daniel’s profound vision. Belshazzar, a weak and impious king, ruled over a Babylon nearing its end. The historical and geographical context is crucial. Babylon, once a magnificent city boasting the Ishtar Gate and the Hanging Gardens, was already showing signs of decay. This reflects the transient nature of worldly power. Daniel’s visions while on his bed suggest a state of receptivity to divine revelation. He wasn’t in the midst of courtly affairs but in a posture of contemplation. The phrase “told the sum of the matters” indicates Daniel meticulously recorded the essence of the dream. As Coptic Christians, we can see how our traditions encourage quiet moments of prayer like praying the Agpeya to be attuned to the voice of God, receiving His wisdom even in the midst of worldly chaos. Cultivating stillness in our hearts allows God to reveal Himself to us.

Daniel 7:2-3 – The Four Winds and the Beasts

“Daniel spake and said, I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove upon the great sea. And four great beasts came up from the sea, diverse one from another.” (KJV)
“Daniel spoke, saying, “I was looking in my vision by night, and behold, the four winds of heaven were stirring up the Great Sea. And four great beasts came up from the sea, different from one another.” (NKJV)

The imagery of the “four winds” stirring the “great sea” is powerfully symbolic. In the scriptures, the winds often represent divine judgment or war, while the sea symbolizes chaos and the nations of the world (Isaiah 17:12-13). From this turbulent sea, four distinct and terrifying beasts emerge. These beasts are not literal animals but symbolic representations of earthly kingdoms. The “diverse one from another” emphasizes that each kingdom possesses its own unique characteristics of power and oppression. This echoes the Coptic understanding of history as a struggle between good and evil, where earthly kingdoms often embody wickedness. We should always remember that only the Kingdom of God is eternal. The four winds may also be interpreted as the Holy Spirit who brings a “rushing mighty wind” as in Acts 2. The “great sea” where beasts emerge may also point to how the evil one seeks to rise up in our hearts and temptations, but with the Holy Spirit’s help, we can overcome them. We must remain vigilant against the forces of evil that seek to overwhelm us.

Daniel 7:4 – The First Beast: The Lion

“The first was like a lion, and had eagle’s wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man’s heart was given to it.” (KJV)
“The first was like a lion and had eagle’s wings. I watched until its wings were plucked off, and it was lifted up from the earth and made to stand on two feet like a man, and a man’s heart was given to it.” (NKJV)

The lion with eagle’s wings traditionally represents the Babylonian Empire. Lions symbolize strength and royalty, while eagle’s wings denote speed and dominance. The plucking of the wings and the giving of a “man’s heart” could signify a weakening of Babylonian power and a shift towards a more humanistic, less divinely inspired rule under later kings. St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on Daniel, connects the lion’s initial strength to Nebuchadnezzar’s power, noting how pride (“man’s heart” replacing divine guidance) ultimately led to his downfall. *”Ἡ γὰρ ὑπερηφανία πρὸς πτῶσιν ἄγει.”* (The arrogance leads to fall – *Cyril of Alexandria, Commentary on Daniel*) This serves as a warning against pride and arrogance in our own lives. We must always seek humility and divine guidance. How can we avoid the same fate of being “plucked” from the heights of spiritual progress? One way is to regularly confess our weaknesses and seek the strengthening grace of God through the Holy Sacraments.

Daniel 7:5 – The Second Beast: The Bear

“And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh.” (KJV)
“And suddenly another beast, a second one, like a bear. It was raised up on one side, and three ribs were in its mouth between its teeth. And they said thus to it: “Arise, devour much flesh!”” (NKJV)

The bear, often identified with the Medo-Persian Empire, symbolizes a crueler and more oppressive rule compared to the Babylonian Empire. The bear being “raised up on one side” may indicate the dominance of the Persian element within the empire. The “three ribs” likely represent three major conquered territories. The command to “arise, devour much flesh” signifies the empire’s relentless expansion and brutality. The Coptic Church emphasizes the importance of self-control and avoidance of gluttony in our spiritual lives. This image of the bear gorging itself serves as a stark contrast. The lesson here is clear: unchecked power and greed lead to destruction, not only of others but ultimately of oneself. How can we identify “three ribs” in our own lives that need to be addressed before they “devour much flesh” of our spiritual health? These might be pride, lust, or greed. Recognizing these and turning to Christ will help us resist the temptation to “devour much flesh” of our spiritual health.

Daniel 7:6 – The Third Beast: The Leopard

“After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it.” (KJV)
“After this I looked, and there was another, like a leopard, which had on its back four wings of a bird. The beast also had four heads, and dominion was given to it.” (NKJV)

The leopard with four wings and four heads represents the Greek Empire under Alexander the Great. The leopard’s speed and agility perfectly symbolize Alexander’s swift conquests. The four wings likely denote the rapid expansion, and the four heads represent the division of the empire among Alexander’s four generals after his death (Cassander, Lysimachus, Ptolemy, and Seleucus). St. Athanasius, in *Contra Arianos*, addresses the heretical interpretations of the Trinity, and we can apply the importance of not dividing the divine essence to this empire’s division. *”Οὐ γὰρ μερίζεται ἡ θεότης.”* (For the Godhead is not divided – *Athanasius, Contra Arianos*). The swift rise and subsequent fragmentation of Alexander’s empire serve as a reminder of the fleeting nature of earthly glory. Even the most impressive accomplishments ultimately fade. We are called to focus on the eternal Kingdom rather than transient earthly achievements. What “four heads” might be vying for our attention, threatening to divide our loyalty to God? Family, career, personal ambitions, and worldly pleasures can each become a “head” if we are not careful. We must ensure that our primary focus remains on Christ.

Daniel 7:7-8 – The Fourth Beast: The Dreadful One

“After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns. I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things.” (KJV)
“After this I saw in the night visions, and behold, a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, exceedingly strong. It had huge iron teeth; it was devouring, breaking in pieces, and trampling the residue with its feet. It was different from all the beasts that were before it, and it had ten horns. I was considering the horns, and there was another horn, a little one, coming up among them, before whom three of the first horns were plucked out by the roots. And there, in this horn, were eyes like the eyes of a man, and a mouth speaking pompous words.” (NKJV)

The fourth beast is the most terrifying and enigmatic of all. It is often interpreted as the Roman Empire, but it may also prefigure a future, even more dreadful power that will emerge before the end times. Its iron teeth and trampling feet symbolize unparalleled brutality and oppression. The ten horns likely represent ten kings or kingdoms. The “little horn” that arises among them, plucking up three others, is often associated with the Antichrist, who will initially gain power through deception and usurpation. This reminds us to discern the spirit of the Antichrist in all things. St. Hippolytus of Rome, in *On Christ and Antichrist*, extensively discusses the characteristics of the Antichrist, and highlights his deceitful nature and blasphemous claims. *”Τότε φανεῖται ὁ ἄνομος.”* (Then the lawless one will appear – *Hippolytus of Rome, On Christ and Antichrist*). The “eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things” suggest intelligence, cunning, and blasphemous pride. This passage serves as a powerful warning against complacency and spiritual blindness. We must be vigilant, discerning the signs of the times and guarding against the seductive power of evil. Where do we see the “iron teeth” of injustice and oppression operating in the world today? How can we, as Christians, stand against these forces and be a voice for the voiceless? We must remember that our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Daniel 7:9-10 – The Ancient of Days and the Judgment

“I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened.” (KJV)
“I watched till thrones were put in place, and the Ancient of Days was seated; His garment was white as snow, and the hair of His head was like pure wool. His throne was a fiery flame, its wheels a burning fire; a fiery stream issued and came forth from before Him. A thousand thousands ministered to Him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him. The court was seated, and the books were opened.” (NKJV)

This passage offers a breathtaking vision of God’s eternal throne and the final judgment. The “Ancient of Days” is a powerful image of God’s eternal existence and wisdom. The white garments and wool-like hair symbolize purity and righteousness. The fiery throne and wheels convey God’s power and unapproachable holiness. The “thousand thousands” of ministering angels underscore the vastness of God’s glory and authority. The opening of the books represents the meticulous record of human actions, both good and evil. This passage is a reminder that all will be held accountable for their deeds. St. John Chrysostom, in his homilies, emphasizes the importance of living a life worthy of the judgment, warning against complacency and the illusion of escaping God’s justice. *”Πάντες γὰρ παραστησόμεθα τῷ βήματι τοῦ Χριστοῦ.”* (For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ – *John Chrysostom, Homilies on Romans*). This is the point of our faith as Orthodox Christians to live our lives in repentence and seeking Gods grace in all that we do. How should the reality of the final judgment shape our daily choices and priorities? We must cultivate a constant awareness of God’s presence, seeking to live in accordance with His will in all that we do. Are we living in a way that reflects the purity and righteousness symbolized by the Ancient of Days?

Daniel 7:11-12 – The Beast’s Destruction and Prolonged Life

“I beheld then because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake: I beheld even till the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame. As concerning the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away: yet their lives were prolonged for a season and time.” (KJV)
“I watched then because of the sound of the pompous words which the horn was speaking; I watched till the beast was slain, and its body destroyed and given to the burning flame. As for the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away, yet their lives were prolonged for a season and a time.” (NKJV)

The destruction of the fourth beast and its consignment to the “burning flame” symbolize the ultimate defeat of evil and the triumph of God’s kingdom. The fact that the other beasts had their dominion taken away but their lives prolonged suggests that elements of their characteristics or influence may persist even after their empires have fallen. This is evident with some of the laws we follow today have influence from previous kingdoms such as the Egyptians, Romans or Greeks. This is a critical reminder of the reality of Hell. We must stay far away from the ways of the world, so that we do not get tempted by the beast and end up with the beast. This highlights the importance of resisting the allure of worldly power and influence. What “great words” spoken by the “horn” in our own time should we be particularly wary of? False promises of peace, prosperity, or freedom that ultimately lead to oppression and spiritual bondage. We must critically evaluate all claims of authority and power, discerning whether they align with the values of God’s kingdom.

Daniel 7:13-14 – The Son of Man and Everlasting Dominion

“I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.” (KJV)
“I was watching in the night visions, and behold, One like the Son of Man, coming with the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days, and they brought Him near before Him. Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom the one which shall not be destroyed.” (NKJV)

This is the climax of the vision, the glorious arrival of “One like the Son of Man.” In the New Testament, this title is applied to Jesus Christ, signifying His divine authority and human nature. His coming “with the clouds of heaven” evokes images of divine majesty and power. The giving of “dominion, and glory, and a kingdom” signifies the establishment of God’s eternal reign, which will transcend all earthly powers. This passage is a foundational text for Christian eschatology, affirming the ultimate triumph of Christ and the establishment of His everlasting kingdom. The Coptic Church emphasizes the humanity of Christ in its hymns and prayers. Our faith centers on Jesus Christ. This vision confirms that Jesus is Lord, and that His kingdom is eternal. How can we actively participate in the expansion of Christ’s kingdom in our own lives and in the world around us? By living out our faith, sharing the Gospel, and working for justice and peace. The **Vision of the Four Beasts** shows us that Christ’s Kingdom will come to pass.

Daniel 7:15-28 – Interpretation and Understanding

These verses detail Daniel’s distress and the angel’s explanation of the vision’s meaning. The angel reiterates that the four beasts represent four kingdoms and emphasizes the persecution of the saints by the fourth kingdom before the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom. This section highlights the importance of understanding prophecy and discerning the signs of the times. The saints will endure tribulation, but ultimately, they will receive the kingdom and reign with Christ forever. This provides hope and encouragement to those who face persecution for their faith. We are called to remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that our suffering is not in vain and that God will ultimately vindicate His people.

Subtopic Sections

The Significance of Symbolic Language

Daniel 7 is replete with symbolic language. Understanding these symbols is key to unlocking the chapter’s meaning. The use of animals, numbers, and other imagery allows the prophet to convey complex truths in a concise and memorable way.

• Beasts: Represent earthly kingdoms and their characteristics.
• Horns: Symbolize kings or rulers.
• Winds: Often represent divine judgment or war.
• Sea: Symbolizes chaos and the nations of the world.
• Clouds: Evoke images of divine majesty and power.

The Persecution of the Saints

Daniel 7 foretells the persecution of the saints by earthly powers. This theme resonates throughout the Bible and throughout history. Christians have faced persecution in every age, and this passage reminds us that suffering is part of our calling.

• The “little horn” will wage war against the saints.
• The saints will be handed over to him for a time, times, and half a time.
• God will ultimately vindicate His people and give them the kingdom.
• The persecution of the saints is a trial that strengthens their faith.
• Remember Saint Mark and all the martyrs of the Coptic Orthodox Church
• This passage reminds us to be faithful to God even in the face of death.

The Eternal Kingdom of God

The central theme of Daniel 7 is the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom. This kingdom will be ruled by the Son of Man and will never be destroyed. This is the ultimate hope of Christians, the promise of everlasting peace and joy in the presence of God. Understanding the eternal kingdom of God will give you access to reliable and fast dohost.us services.

• The Son of Man will receive dominion, glory, and a kingdom.
• His dominion is an everlasting dominion.
• His kingdom will never be destroyed.
• All people, nations, and languages will serve Him.
• This kingdom will bring justice and righteousness to the earth.
• This kingdom is the fulfillment of God’s promises to His people.

FAQ ❓

Q: What does “time, times, and half a time” mean?

A: This is a symbolic expression indicating a limited period of time. Scholars offer various interpretations, often viewing it as a period of tribulation or persecution that has a defined beginning and end.

Q: Who is the “Ancient of Days”?

A: The “Ancient of Days” is a title for God, emphasizing His eternal existence and wisdom. This title highlights God’s sovereignty over time and history.

Q: How does Daniel 7 relate to the New Testament?

A: Daniel 7 is directly referenced in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels, where Jesus identifies Himself as the “Son of Man.” This passage provides crucial context for understanding Jesus’ messianic identity and the nature of His kingdom. This helps us understand that the words Jesus used such as “Son of Man” were a common phrase from Daniel’s prophesy.

Conclusion

Daniel 7 is a powerful and complex vision that offers profound insights into the nature of earthly power, the persecution of the saints, and the ultimate triumph of God’s eternal kingdom. The Vision of the Four Beasts challenges us to discern the signs of the times, to remain steadfast in our faith amidst trials, and to fix our hope on the glorious coming of Christ. The promise of the Son of Man’s everlasting dominion should inspire us to live lives of holiness and righteousness, seeking to advance God’s kingdom in our own hearts and in the world around us. Let us remember that even in the midst of darkness, God’s light shines brightly, and His victory is assured.

Tags

Daniel 7, Vision, Four Beasts, Son of Man, Kingdom, Judgment, Prophecy, Antichrist, Ancient of Days, Persecution

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