by Ken Cayce
© Ken Cayce All rights reserved.
Copyright
Title: The title of the book comes from the name of its chief character and author. Daniel who through the book received revelations from God. Daniel bridges the entire 70 years of the Babylonian captivity from (605 to 536 B.C.; compare 1:1 and 9:1-3).
Nine of the 12 chapters relate revelation through dreams and visions. Daniel was God's mouthpiece to the Gentile and Jewish world, declaring God's current and future plans. What Revelation is to the New Testament prophetically and apocalyptically, Daniel is to the Old Testament.
Author - Date: Several verses indicate that the writer is Daniel (8:15, 27; 9:2; 10:2, 7; 12:4-5), whose name means "God is my Judge." He wrote in the autobiographical first person from (7:2 on), and is to be distinguished from the other 3 Daniels of the Old Testament (compare 1 Chron. 3:1; Ezra 8:2; Neh. 10:6). As a teenager, possibly about 15 years old, Daniel was kidnapped from his noble family in Judah and deported to Babylon to be brainwashed into Babylonian culture for the task of assisting in dealing with the imported Jews. There he spent the remainder of a long life (85 years or more). He made the most of the exile successfully, exalting God by his character and service. He quickly rose to the role of statesman by official royal appointment and served as a confidante of kings as well as a prophet in two world empires, i.e., the Babylonian (2:48), and the Medo-Persian (6:1-2). Christ confirmed Daniel as the author of this book (compare Matt. 24:15).
Daniel lived beyond the time described (in Dan. 10:1; ca. 536 B.C.). It seems most probable that he wrote the book shortly after this date but before (ca. 530 B.C.).
(Daniel 2:4b - 7:28), which prophetically describes the course of Gentile world history, was originally and appropriately written in Aramaic, the contemporary language of international business. Ezekiel, Habakkuk, Jeremiah, and Zephaniah were Daniel's prophetic contemporaries.
The authenticity of few books in the bible has been more furiously assailed by critics than the Book of Daniel. The primary reasons for this is:
1. The book is said to make several historical blunders.
2. The language of the period.
3. The position of the book in the third part of the threefold division of the Old Testament Canon (laws and writings), shows that it was written too late to be placed in the collection of the Prophets.
4. The book contains many examples of historical events that occurred long after the time of the traditional date for Daniel.
The arguments for the book's authenticity however are quite convincing and answer well those negative doubts:
1. The charges of historical blunders have proved false in the past (e.g., the mention of Belshazzar, now firmly established by the discovery of the Nabonidus Chronicle, was once thought to be a mistake). Present problematic passages will eventually likewise be solved.
2. Not only do the international contacts of the Neo-Babylonian Empire account for the presence of foreign words, but recent linguistic research has rendered obsolete the argument concerning the supposed lateness of Daniel's language.
3. Daniel was a statesman as well as a prophet, and could thus easily be included in the writings.
4. Since God is the Sovereign of history, He can inspire men to record accurate predictions of events both near and far.
5. Jesus quoted Daniel as a prophet (Matt. 24:15; Mark 13:14).
6. Daniels contemporaries mention him as a person known for his righteousness and wisdom (Ezek. 14:14, 20; 28:3).
7. Ancient authorities, both Jewish and Christian, accepted the book's authenticity.
8. Taken at face value, the book purports to be a document (of the sixth century B.C.), written by a prophet of God. There is no good reason to reject Daniel's authorship of the book.
If the claims of the book are taken at face value, it was written during the lifetime of Daniel at various periods between the time he was captured and the third year of Cyrus (605 to 536 B.C.), or simply (the sixth century B.C.). The dates of the three kings mentioned in the book are well known: Nebuchadnezzar (605 - 562 B.C.), Belshazzar (553-539 B.C.), and Cyrus (559 - 529 B.C.). Cyrus's reign over Babylon, the scene of the later chapters of Daniel (began in 539 B.C.).
Interpretation - Purpose: The interpretation of the book can be determined only by understanding its historical background. (In 626 B.C.), Nabopolassar of Babylon freed his city from Assyrian control and thus began the Neo-Babylonian Empire. (In 612 B.C.), Babylonia and Media together defeated the Assyrians and destroyed Nineveh, their capital. Nabopolassar was succeeded by his son Nebuchadnezzar (in 605 B.C.), shortly after the latter had defeated the Egyptians at Carchemish. The Babylonians were then the undisputed masters of the ancient Near East. In the first of three campaigns against Judah, Nebuchadnezzar took Daniel and his three friends, among others, captive to Babylon (605 B.C.). Later campaigns resulted in the taking of 10,000 captives, including Ezekiel (597 B.C.) and finally, the destruction of the temple and city itself (586 B.C.).
Four successive Babylonian kings are not mentioned in Daniel: Amel-marduk (the Evil-merodach of the Bible; 562 - 560 B.C.), Nergalsharusur (the Nergal-sharezer (of Jer. 39:3), known to the Greeks as Neriglissar (560 - 556 B.C.), Labashi-marduk (556 B.C.); and Nabonidus (555 - 539 B.C.). However, the final king of the Empire, Belshazzar (553-539 B.C.), is an important figure in Daniel's account. Belshazzar, although a co-regent with his father Nabonidus, was in fact the reigning monarch for much of his father's term. During Belshazzar's rule Daniel had the vision of the four beasts (chapter 7), and the vision of the ram and the male goat (in chapter 8). The famous "handwriting on the wall" (in chapter 5) was a prediction of Belshazzar's fall, since the city was taken that night (Oct. 12, 539 B.C.) by Cyrus the Persian. Cyrus is the only Persian king mentioned in the book. Darius is clearly identified as a Mede and should not be confused with a later Persian king by the same name.
The writing of this book has several purposes:
1. It presents a divine philosophy of history. God is represented as the Sovereign over all of history. He moves men and nations according to His will (4:35).
2. It provides a prophetic framework for the future, that period called by Jesus as "the times of the Gentiles" (Luke 21:24). The world empires mentioned (in chapters 2 and 7), show the ultimate fortunes of Gentile powers.
3. It explains other portions of Scripture. The Book of Revelation could not be understood apart from the Book of Daniel. (Revelation chapters 4-19), is a commentary on the events of Daniel's "seventieth week" (Daniel 9:27).
4. It served as a book of encouragement to the Babylonian exiles, whose hearts were no doubt lightened by Daniel's predictions of the ultimate triumph of Israel over her enemies.
Background - Setting: The book begins (in 605 B.C.), when Babylon conquered Jerusalem and exiled Daniel, his 3 friends, and others. It continues to the eventual demise of Babylonian supremacy (n 539 B.C.), when Medo-Persian besiegers conquered Babylon (5:30-31), and goes even beyond that to (536 B.C.; 10:1). After Daniel was transported to Babylon, the Babylonian victors conquered Jerusalem in two further stages (597 B.C. and 586 B.C.). In both takeovers, they deported more Jewish captives. Daniel passionately remembered his home, particularly the temple at Jerusalem, almost 70 years after having been taken away from it (6:10).
Daniel's background is alluded to in part by Jeremiah, who names 3 of the last 5 kings in Judah before captivity (compare Jeremiah 1:1-3): Josiah (ca. 641 - 609 B.C.), Jehoiakim (ca. 609 -597 B.C.), and Zedekiah (597 - 586 B.C.). Jehoahaz (ca. 609 B.C.), and Jehoiachin (ca. 598 - 597 B.C.) are not mentioned (compare Jeremiah Introduction: Background - Setting). Daniel is also mentioned by Ezekiel (compare 14:14, 20; 28:3), as being righteous and wise. He is alluded to by the writer of Hebrews as one of "the prophets ... who through by faith ... stopped the mouths of lions" (Heb. 11:32-33).
The long-continued sin of the Judeans without national repentance eventually led to God's judgment for which Jeremiah, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah had given fair warning. Earlier, Isaiah and other faithful prophets of God had also trumpeted the danger. When Assyrian power had ebbed by 625 B.C., the Neo-Babylonians conquered:
(1) Assyria with its capital Nineveh (in 612 B.C.);
(2) Egypt in the following years, and
(3) Judah (in 605 B.C.), when they overthrew Jerusalem in the first of 3 steps (also 597 B.C. 586 B.C.).
Daniel was one of the first groups of deportees, and Ezekiel followed (in 597 B.C.).
Israel of the northern kingdom had earlier fallen to Assyria (in 722 B.C.). With Judah's captivity, the judgment was complete. In Babylon, Daniel received God's word concerning successive stages of Gentile world domination through the centuries until the greatest Conqueror, Messiah, would put down all Gentile lordship. He then will defeat all foes and raise His covenant people to blessing in His glorious millennial kingdom.
Historical - Theological Themes: Daniel was written to encourage the exiled Jews by revealing God's program for them, both during and after the time of Gentile power in the world. Prominent above every other theme in the book is God's sovereign control over the affairs of all rulers and nations, and their final replacement with the True King. The key verses are (2:20-22, 44; compare 2:28, 37; 4:34-35; 6:25-27). God had not suffered defeat in allowing Israel's fall (Dan. Chapter 1), but was providentially working His sure purposes toward an eventual full display of His King, the exalted Christ. He sovereignly allowed Gentiles to dominate Israel, i.e., Babylon (605-539 B.C.), Medo-Persia (539 - 331 B.C.), Greece (331 - 146 B.C.), Rome (146 B.C. - 476 A.D.), and all the way to the Second Advent of Christ. These stages in Gentile power are set forth (in chapters 2 and 7). This same theme also embraces Israel's experience both in defeat and finally in her kingdom blessing (in Chapters 8 through 12; compare 2:35, 45; 7:27). A key aspect within the over-arching theme of God's kingly control is Messiah's coming to rule the world in glory over all men (2:35, 45; 7:13; 14, 27). He is like a stone (in chapter 2), and like a son of man (in chapter 7). In addition, He is the Anointed One (Messiah; in chapter 9:26). Chapter 9 provides the chronological framework from Daniel's time to Christ's kingdom.
A second theme woven into the fabric of Daniel is the display of God's sovereign power through miracles. Daniel's era is one of 6 in the Bible with a major focus on miracles by which God accomplished His purposes. Other periods include:
(1) The Creation and Flood (Gen. 1:11);
(2) The patriarchs and Moses (Gen. 12 - Deuteronomy);
(3) Elijah and Elisha (1 Kings 17 - 2 Kings 13);
(4) Jesus and the apostles (Gospels, Acts); and
(5) The time of the Second Advent (Revelation).
God, who has everlasting dominion and ability to work according to His will (4:34-35), is capable of miracles, all of which would be lesser displays of power than was exhibited when He acted as Creator (in Gen. 1:1). Daniel chronicles the God-enabled recounting and interpreting of dreams which God used to reveal His will (Chapters 2, 4, and 7). Other miracles included:
(1) His writing on the wall and Daniel's interpreting it (chapter 5);
(2) His protection of the 3 men in a blazing furnace (chapter 3);
(3) His provision of safety for Daniel in a lions' den (chapter 6); and
(4) Supernatural prophecies (chapters 2, 7, 8; 9:24 - 12:13).
| Daniel 1 | Daniel 7 |
| Daniel 2 |
Daniel 8 |
| Daniel 3 | Daniel 9 |
| Daniel 4 | Daniel 10 |
| Daniel 5 | Daniel 11 |
| Daniel 6 | Daniel 12 |
The book of Daniel was written by the prophet Daniel. Daniel prophesied after he was taken to Babylon with the first captives. He was taken on the first of three steps to overthrow Jerusalem which happened (in 605 B.C., then in 597 B.C., then finally in 586 B.C.).
He was chosen out to learn the language, and to work in the king's palace. He was chosen, along with other young men from prominent families, to serve in the Babylonian court.
Some believe that Daniel was a eunuch which was a procedure that was required for those serving in the king's court. According to what I've found I do not know of a passage of scripture that specifically states that Daniel was a eunuch, there is strong evidence to believe so. The prophesy of Isaiah concerning the fall to Babylon (chapter 39:7 in particular), speaks of the young men of Judah being taken away and made "eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon".
This prophesy took place during the younger years of Daniels life. (Daniel 1:1 and following), state that Daniel was among those brought to Babylon (verse 6 in particular). Also, we see that Daniel was placed under the charge of Ashpenaz, master of the eunuchs. The fact that Daniel rose to such a high position of authority under the rules of Nebuchadnezzar and Darius, almost certainly confirms that Daniel was made a eunuch, common practice in biblical days to prevent any offspring being born to anyone who might challenge the throne.
Daniel's prophecies were different from Isaiah's, and Jeremiah's. Their prophecies were usually begun by saying, "Thus saith the Lord". Daniel did not use that expression when giving his. His ministry was involved in interpreting dreams and riddles. The most prominent of ministries, possibly, were the visions he had himself of events future to even our day. The book of Revelation and Daniel have much in common. Some future events are mentioned in both. Daniel had three friends who were fellow captives. We will see all four of these young men, standing up for God under great stress.
The book of Daniel must be understood through the spirit, if we are to understand anything it says. As with many prophecies, this covers the time they lived in, and covers times future to us, as well. The sovereignty of God is revealed in this book.
Daniel 1:1 "In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it."
Jehoiakim began to reign after Josiah. Josiah did right in the sight of God, but Jehoiakim was evil. This is a setting of the time on the attack of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. Eliakim and Jehoiakim is the same person.
"In the third year": This occurred (in 606-605 B.C.). It was the third year by Babylonian dating, which did not count a king's initial accession year, but began with the following year. So the "third year" is in harmony with the same year labeled as "fourth" by the Judean system of dating. Jehoiakim was the son of Josiah.
2 Chronicles 36:5 "Jehoiakim [was] twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem: and he did [that which was] evil in the sight of the LORD his God."
Daniel 1:2 "And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure house of his god."
"Lord", in the verse above, means Adonai. LORD, means Jehovah. This is not speaking of the time later on, when Jerusalem is destroyed. This is speaking of the overthrow of Jehoiakim. At this time, the temple is not completely ravaged, but some of the vessels of the house of God are taken. The land of Shinar was a portion of Babylon. The god, spoken of here, is the false god of Nebuchadnezzar which was called Bel or Marduk which is known as Merodach.
As a side note, to conquer another nation's deities was thought to prove the superiority of the victor's god.
2 Chronicles 36:6-7 "Against him came up Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and bound him in fetters, to carry him to Babylon." "Nebuchadnezzar also carried off the vessels of the house of the LORD to Babylon, and put them in his temple at Babylon."
Daniel 1:3 "And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring [certain] of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes;"
We see from this, that those young men, who were taken, were princes and seed of the king, and Israelites who were very prominent. Nebuchadnezzar wanted eunuchs for the court.
2 Kings 20:18 "And of thy sons that shall issue from thee, which thou shalt beget, shall they take away; and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon."
Daniel 1:4 "Children in whom [was] no blemish, but well favored, and skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as [had] ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans."
These young men, that were chosen to take back to Babylon to work in the court, had to be the well educated. They had to be intelligent enough to learn the language, and to conduct themselves with good manners. The Chaldeans and the Babylonians are the same. The young men needed to be nice looking to represent the king well. He wanted only the best in the court of the king.
Daniel 1:5 "And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king."
They were sent to training school for 3 years to prepare them for work in the court of the king. They were fed and housed as part of their training. In fact, they were fed the same food and wine as the king. This was a time of preparation.
The king was having them schooled in the ways of Babylon. He also, wanted them to know what was required of them in their duties. He might even use them as interpreters to communicate with the captured Hebrews.
These young men after their training, would easily serve as liaisons between Babylon and Judah, or even as hostages to keep Judah's kings submissive.
Daniel 1:6 "Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah:"
The name "Daniel" means judge of God. "Hananiah" means Jah has favored. "Mishael" means who is what God is. "Azariah" means Jah has strengthened. It appears from this verse, these 4 were of the tribe of Judah.
Daniel 1:7 "Unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto Daniel [the name] of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abed-nego."
When they are called into service of the king, they must take on Babylonian names. Daniel's new name, Belteshazzar, is very similar to the name of a later king of these Babylonians, Belshazzar.
Sometimes, names were given to cut connection with old lives. Sometimes, they were named for the false gods of their captors.
This name changing was a key factor in the "brainwashing" process of the Babylonian training. This was to link the inductees to local gods rather than to support their former religious loyalty.
Daniel 1:8 "But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself."
This meat no doubt included food prohibited to the Jews. The pagan food and drink was devoted to idols. To indulge was to be understood as honoring those deities. Daniel made up his mind not to engage in compromise by being untrue to God's call of commitment. To partake entailed direct compromise.
We see from this, that Daniel's faith in God made him know that God would protect him. He remembered the dietary laws that were given in Leviticus. Daniel did not want to anger God by eating unclean food. This defilement would have been because of the law in Leviticus.
Leviticus 11:47 "To make a difference between the unclean and the clean, and between the beast that may be eaten and the beast that may not be eaten."
Daniel would rather die than break the Levitical law. This is not true now, since Jesus fulfilled the law. Food is cleansed by prayer.
1 Timothy 4:5 - "For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer."
The prince of eunuchs was over Daniel. This is a bold request of Daniel. It might even cost him his life.
Daniel 1:9 "Now God had brought Daniel into favor and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs."
We see this very same thing happened to Joseph, when he was captive in Egypt, in the following verse. God honored Daniel's trust and allegiance by sovereignly working favorably for him among the heathen leaders. In this instance, it prevented persecution and led to respect, whereas later on God permitted opposition against Daniel which also elevated him. One way or another, God honors those who honor Him.
Genesis 39:21 "But the LORD was with Joseph, and showed him mercy, and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison."
You see, God ultimately is in control of everyone. God made tender the heart of the prince of the eunuchs, so that he loves Daniel.
Daniel 1:10 "And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which [are] of your sort? then shall ye make [me] endanger my head to the king."
The prince of the eunuchs is just sure that Daniel will look terrible, if he stops eating the food and wine the king has provided. When Daniel begins to look bad, the prince of the eunuchs will be in trouble with the king, and the king might have him killed.
The Hebrews, that were not in the palace, got very little to eat, and they were not very healthy looking. The king wanted his eunuchs to be the best looking people in the land.
Daniel 1:11 "Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,"
"Melzar" means butler, or steward. We see from this, there were several ranks even among the eunuchs.
Daniel 1:12 "Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink."
"Pulse" means a vegetable. We can easily see that Daniel was trying to avoid eating an unclean animal from the king's table. These 10 days symbolizes a time dealing with worldliness, since 10 means world government. This is not a total fast, but God will bless Daniel for taking this stand for Him.
Daniel 1:13 "Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the children that eat of the portion of the king's meat: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants."
We see that Daniel gives Melzar a way out of this. He explains that, if he looks any different than the people eating and drinking the king's food and drink, the prince can punish him. Servants is plural here, so Daniel is, probably, speaking for himself and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
Daniel 1:14 "So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days."
Since this will not get him in trouble, Melzar agrees to it.
Daniel 1:15 "And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king's meat."
God intervenes and feeds Daniel and his friend's; food that the steward knows not of. This is food from God.
The success of Daniel's plan was due more to the sovereignty of God in blessing his spiritual commitment than it was to the diet. Certain kinds of meat were not prohibited to the Jews, but a vegetarian diet in this case may have been inherently superior to the king's table.
Exodus 23:25 "And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee."
Fatter indicates healthiness.
It is better to obey God, than to have a feast of unclean food. They are in great shape at the end of the 10 days. This is the first of the great manifestations of God in Daniel.
Daniel 1:16 "Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse."
When the steward saw they were no worse for their restricted diet, he allowed them to continue on that diet.
Daniel 1:17 "As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams."
Notice where their skill and knowledge had come from, God had given it to them as a gift. Their faithfulness to God was overwhelming. God gave them gifts to help them in this hostile place.
Daniel's gifts were even more. He received the gift of interpretations, along with the understanding and wisdom. God would also communicate with Daniel in dreams. The things these 4 received from God are very much like the gifts of the Spirit the Christians receive.
1 Corinthians 12:7-10 "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal." "For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;" "To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;" "To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another [divers] kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:"
Daniel 1:18 "Now at the end of the days that the king had said he should bring them in, then the prince of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar."
They were to be trained and groomed, before they were brought before the king. It appears this time has elapsed here, and it is time to bring them to the king for his approval.
Daniel 1:19 "And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before the king."
From this, we see there were many more than these 4, but the king was the most impressed with Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. He chose these 4 to serve close to him.
Daniel 1:20 "And in all matters of wisdom [and] understanding, that the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians [and] astrologers that [were] in all his realm."
Magicians and astrologers have a little power, but their power comes from another source other than God. Their wisdom and understanding does not measure up to the 4 headed up by Daniel. Daniel and his friends get their wisdom and understanding from God. We see the comparison in the Scripture above is 10 to 1.
Satan has a little power that God allows him to have. He does not have unlimited power. God's power is unlimited. God controls Satan. These men who had stood up for God were representing God to this court. God's power through them was unlimited.
Daniel 1:21 "And Daniel continued [even] unto the first year of king Cyrus."
While Babylon stands, Daniel continued. Cyrus of Persia conquered Babylon (in 539 B.C.). His third year in (10:1), is the latest historical year that Daniel mentions.
Daniel 6:28 "So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian."
(Verse 21 above), does not say Daniel stopped at the first year of Cyrus. It says he continued unto his reign. Daniel continued many years under several kings.
"Unto the first year of king Cyrus does not contradict (10:1), where a revelation was given to Daniel in the third year of Cyrus. The purpose of (1:21), is to give a chronological overview of Daniel's ministry: he served from the time of Nebuchadnezzar to the time of Cyrus.
Daniel Chapter 1 Questions
1. When Daniel was captured, where did he go?
2. Why was he made a eunuch?
3. How did his prophecies differ from Ezekiel's and Isaiah's?
4. What was Daniel's ministry involved in?
5. What other book in the Bible has much in common with Daniel?
6. The book of Daniel must be understood through the __________.
7. What time did his prophecy cover?
8. The ___________ of God is revealed in this book.
9. Who reigned before Jehoiakim?
10. How did they differ?
11. How old was Jehoiakim, when he began to reign?
12. How long did he reign?
13. Who gave Jehoiakim into the hands of the Babylonians?
14. Where were some of the temple vessels carried?
15. Where was Shinar?
16. What does "Lord" mean?
17. Who was master of the eunuchs?
18. Who were the young men who were taken for eunuchs?
19. What were some of the qualifications they must have to be a eunuch in the king's court?
20. How were they fed?
21. How long were they in training, before they were presented to the king?
22. What were they being trained in?
23. Who were three others, who were named, that were with Daniel?
24. What does "Daniel" mean?
25. "Hananiah" means ______ _____ _________.
26. "Mishael" means what?
27. What does "Azariah" mean?
28. These 4 were of what tribe?
29. What was Daniel's new name?
30. What names were given to his 3 friends?
31. What was a reason for changing their names?
32. What did Daniel refuse to do?
33. Was Daniel allowed to do what he requested?
34. What is "pulse"?
35. What does the number 10 mean?
36. What special gifts did God give Daniel and his friends?
37. What is this similar to for a Christian?
38. Who did the king choose, of all the eunuchs, to serve him?
39. How much better were they than the magicians and astrologers?
40. How long did Daniel continue?
Daniel 2:1 "And in the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadnezzar dreamed dreams, wherewith his spirit was troubled, and his sleep brake from him."
We would believe that a person, who was as successful as Nebuchadnezzar, would not dream bad dreams. Wealth and fame do not make a person happy. In this particular case, the dream is an intervention from God.
God directs men, sometimes, by dreams and visions. Not all dreams are from God, but this one is. This dream is to elevate Daniel in the kingdom, as the dreams of the king of Egypt elevated Joseph to the second in command in the land.
"Second year": Promotion of the 4 Hebrews after 3 years agrees with the year of promotion after the dream in the "second year."
In the time of revelation, God spoke through the interpretation of dreams that He induced.
Daniel 2:2 "Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the astrologers, and the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans, for to show the king his dreams. So they came and stood before the king."
The subjects of the land are at the beck and call of the king. When the king called them, they came. These astrologers were thought of as the wise men of the day. The job of these astrologers, magicians, and sorcerers was to advise the king on things of a spiritual nature. They told of future events, as well as giving advice. They do have some power, but it is limited. Their source is the devil.
Chaldeans could refer to all people native to Chaldea, or as here, to a special class of soothsayers who taught Chaldean culture.
Read, with me, what all believers are to do about things pertaining to this, in the following verse.
Acts 19:19 "Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all [men]: and they counted the price of them, and found [it] fifty thousand [pieces] of silver."
God will not share your love. You must be loyal to God and not earthly astrologers, magicians, and sorcerers.
Daniel 2:3 "And the king said unto them, I have dreamed a dream, and my spirit was troubled to know the dream."
The king was aware this bad dream was not caused by eating the wrong food for dinner, but was, in fact, a warning. He cannot continue on, without knowing the meaning of this dream.
Daniel 2:4 "Then spake the Chaldeans to the king in Syriac, O king, live for ever: tell thy servants the dream, and we will show the interpretation."
These worldly wise men were smart enough to begin by saying something nice to the king. "Syriac" means they spoke in Syrian.
This seems like a reasonable request for the king to give them the dream, so they might interpret the dream.
This language, to which Daniel suddenly switches (in verse 4b), and retains through (7:28), was written with an alphabet like Hebrew, yet had distinctive differences. Aramaic was the popular language of the Babylonian, Assyrian, and Persian areas, and was useful in governmental and trade relations.
(Daniel 1:1-2:4a and 8:1-12:13 were written in Hebrew), possibly because the focus was more directly on Hebrew matters. (Daniel 2:4b-7:28), switches to Aramaic because the subject matter is centered more on other nations and matters largely involving them.
Daniel 2:5 "The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, The thing is gone from me: if ye will not make known unto me the dream, with the interpretation thereof, ye shall be cut in pieces, and your houses shall be made a dunghill."
Even though the king has forgotten the details of the dream, he is still greatly troubled by the dream. The astrologers, sorcerers, and magicians were supposed to be able to read the minds of their people. If they had the power they claimed to have, this would be no problem for them. The truth is they do not have power.
The threat of death should cause them to use all the power available to them to try to know the dream and its meaning. It is in the power of the king to kill them, if they do not please him.
Daniel 2:6 "But if ye show the dream, and the interpretation thereof, ye shall receive of me gifts and rewards and great honor: therefore show me the dream, and the interpretation thereof."
We saw in the previous Scripture, threat of cruel death, if they did not know and bring the meaning of the dream to the king. Now, we see they will be blessed greatly, if they can bring the king his dream.
This is a time of proving for them. They must prove their powers to the king.
Daniel 2:7 "They answered again and said, Let the king tell his servants the dream, and we will show the interpretation of it."
This is the second time they have requested the king to tell the dream to them. They have not understood his previous answer. He has forgotten the details of the dream.
Their mention of the fact they are servants to the king, is to show their willingness to interpret the dream, if it is in their power to do so.
The worldly men of human skill failed. (Verses 8-13), show how impossible it is for humans to truly interpret dreams from God. But Daniel, who trusted God in prayer, received His supernatural interpretation. He gave credit to God in his prayer and his testimony before Nebuchadnezzar. Later the king, too, gave God the glory.
Daniel 2:8 "The king answered and said, I know of certainty that ye would gain the time, because ye see the thing is gone from me."
We can all relate to the king in this. At some time in our life, each of us has had a troubling dream, that we could not recall when we woke up. We are aware that the dream troubled us, but we cannot remember the dream. This is what has happened to the king.
Daniel 2:9 "But if ye will not make known unto me the dream, [there is but] one decree for you: for ye have prepared lying and corrupt words to speak before me, till the time be changed: therefore tell me the dream, and I shall know that ye can show me the interpretation thereof."
Astrology is calculated by the position of the moon and stars, and time is wasting away here. This one incident will prove to the king for all time, whether they have been lying about their powers, or whether they truly do have supernatural power.
This is much like the challenge that Elijah gave to the prophets of Baal. If they have power, prove it right now. The only thing that will save them is the dream and its interpretation.
Daniel 2:10 "The Chaldeans answered before the king, and said, There is not a man upon the earth that can show the king's matter: therefore [there is] no king, lord, nor ruler, [that] asked such things at any magician, or astrologer, or Chaldean."
They have now made a truthful statement. No man can do these things. This can only be revealed by the True God. They were used to being asked about interpretations, but never to tell what the dream was, as well.
They are almost scolding the king for even asking for such a thing. They remind him, that no previous king has asked such impossibility.
Daniel 2:11 "And [it is] a rare thing that the king requireth, and there is none other that can show it before the king, except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh."
We see in the following Scripture that even true interpretations are from God alone.
Genesis 40:8 "And they said unto him, We have dreamed a dream, and [there is] no interpreter of it. And Joseph said unto them, [Do] not interpretations [belong] to God? tell me [them], I pray you."
God is the dream giver, and God is the true interpreter. Anything that is Impossible with man is possible with God.
Matthew 19:26 "But Jesus beheld [them], and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."
Daniel 2:12 "For this cause the king was angry and very furious, and commanded to destroy all the wise [men] of Babylon."
The king's eyes were opened, and he realized these worldly men had no power at all. He had placed his faith in them, and they had failed him. He demanded that they be killed.
Daniel 2:13 "And the decree went forth that the wise [men] should be slain; and they sought Daniel and his fellows to be slain."
Now, we see the command to kill all of the wise men extends to Daniel and his companions. The king has grouped them all together as liars and deceivers.
Daniel 2:14 "Then Daniel answered with counsel and wisdom to Arioch the captain of the king's guard, which was gone forth to slay the wise [men] of Babylon:"
It seems that "Arioch" was the chief executioner. He was seeking out all the wise men to kill them, on orders from the king. The wonderful thing about God is the fact He can turn an impossibility into a miracle. What was impossible for the worldly wise will not be impossible for someone like Daniel.
Daniel speaks the Words of God that flow through him. God caused Daniel to be brave enough to speak up to Arioch, here.
Daniel 2:15 "He answered and said to Arioch the king's captain, Why [is] the decree [so] hasty from the king? Then Arioch made the thing known to Daniel."
Daniel and his friends were not even aware of what had taken place with the king and the (worldly wise men). This is a request from Daniel to give him and his friends a chance to see what they could do.
Daniel knew that his God was the real God, and could reveal these secrets. The question, "Why is the decree so hasty from the king?" is a very legitimate question. God had to intervene for Daniel to be able to ask this question.
The haste was because the king was angered.
Daniel 2:16 "Then Daniel went in, and desired of the king that he would give him time, and that he would show the king the interpretation."
Notice, Daniel speaks for himself. We know that the executioner would not speak for Daniel, fearing for his own life. Daniel has confidence that God will reveal this to him.
Daniel was obviously held in high esteem, as his ready access to the king demonstrates.
The men, who had been asked at first, did not ask for extra time. They had said it was impossible. They also said the king was in error asking for such a thing. Kings do not like to hear they are in error.
Daniel 2:17 "Then Daniel went to his house, and made the thing known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions:"
Daniel believed God would save them by revealing this dream to him. He als, knew the importance of the prayer of agreement. Daniel knew how he believed, but he also had confidence in the prayers of his friends.
Even though Daniel had special, God given abilities, he and his friends still had to pray.
These 3 are the same as Shadrach, Meshech, and Abednego.
Daniel 2:18 "That they would desire mercies of the God of heaven concerning this secret; that Daniel and his fellows should not perish with the rest of the wise [men] of Babylon."
In the book of Genesis, we see that many times the sinful are saved from death along with the righteous. God will do whatever necessary to protect His own.
Genesis 18:28 "Peradventure there shall lack five of the fifty righteous: wilt thou destroy all the city for [lack of] five? And he said, If I find there forty and five, I will not destroy [it]."
In this verse, Daniel believes that God will stay the hand of the executioner for these 4 men.
Daniel 2:19 "Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven."
God hears the prayers of the righteous.
James 5:16 "Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
The prayers of Daniel, and his 3 friends, have been answered. God reveals the dream to Daniel. Whether this night vision is like a dream, I cannot tell. Notice, Daniel praised God for the dream.
Verses 20-23: This praise to God sums up the theme of the whole book, namely that God is the One who controls all things and grants all wisdom and might.
Daniel 2:20 "Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his:"
Daniel is recognizing that the praise goes to God. Daniel is fully aware that his abilities lie in the abilities of God that flow through him. It is God's wisdom and strength.
Daniel 2:21 "And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:"
Notice with me, where the power, wisdom, and gifts come from.
Exodus 31:3 "And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,"
God sends His Spirit within us to empower us to do the task He has set before us.
1 Corinthians 1:30 "But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:"
Daniel 2:22 "He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what [is] in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him."
God reveals the secrets to His children.
Psalms 25:14 "The secret of the LORD [is] with them that fear him; and he will show them his covenant."
Those who are true believers in God are not in darkness. We dwell in the Light. Darkness symbolizes evil. Light symbolizes truth in God. Christians are filled with the Light of God, because He dwells within us. We are not in darkness, that we might stumble and fall.
Daniel 2:23 "I thank thee, and praise thee, O thou God of my fathers, who hast given me wisdom and might, and hast made known unto me now what we desired of thee: for thou hast [now] made known unto us the king's matter."
Daniel is quick to recognize where this knowledge came from. True wisdom is a gift to man from God. God has revealed the king's dream and the interpretation to Daniel. God has manifested Himself to Daniel, and He will manifest Himself to the king through Daniel.
The gods of this world are nothing compared to Almighty God. God brings the false religions of the world down, and elevates the One True God in this revelation.
Daniel 2:24 "Therefore Daniel went in unto Arioch, whom the king had ordained to destroy the wise [men] of Babylon: he went and said thus unto him; Destroy not the wise [men] of Babylon: bring me in before the king, and I will show unto the king the interpretation."
The execution of the wise men of Babylon has been stopped. God will help His children. Many times, the world around them is blessed by the overflow.
That is the case here. God's answer to Daniel's prayer not only saves him and his 3 friends, but saves the worldly wise men, as well. Daniel now desires to see the king, and tell him the dream and interpretation.
Daniel Chapter 2 Questions
1. When did Nebuchadnezzar dream dreams that troubled him?
2. What is a false concept we have of wealth and fame?
3. Are all dreams from God?
4. What is the purpose of this dream?
5. Who did the king call to interpret his dream?
6. What were the astrologers thought to be?
7. What had the king realized about this dream?
8. What were these worldly wise men smart enough to do?
9. What did they ask the king to do, before they could interpret the dream?
10. Why can the king not tell them about the dream?
11. Why did the king believe they could do this for him?
12. What would cause them to try harder than usual?
13. What will happen, if they cannot interpret the dream?
14. What do they ask the king the second time?
15. Why did they mention they were servants of the king?
16. How can we relate to the king in this?
17. If they cannot tell him of his dream, what is the decree against them?
18. How is astrology calculated?
19. What will their inability to interpret this dream prove to the king?
20. What was their answer to the king, when he wanted them to tell him what his dream was?
21. Who, among fleshly people, could do what the king asked?
22. Who did Joseph say interpretations belong to?
23. How did the king react to their answer?
24. What did the king say to do with the wise men?
25. Who was "Arioch"?
26. How did Daniel find the courage to speak to Arioch?
27. What did Daniel ask Arioch?
28. Who went to ask for extra time from the king?
29. Who did Daniel share the news of the dream with?
30. What did they all do?
31. How was the secret revealed to Daniel?
32. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man ___________ _________.
33. Name some of the things God does in verse 21?
34. Who are the secrets of God revealed to?
35. Who did Daniel go to, to get permission to see the king?
Daniel 2:25 "Then Arioch brought in Daniel before the king in haste, and said thus unto him, I have found a man of the captives of Judah, that will make known unto the king the interpretation."
In the last lesson, we saw the king have a troubling dream. He called for the so-called wise men, but they could not tell him of his dream. He pronounced death on all of the wise men in the land, including Daniel and his 3 friends, because of the dream. Now we see, God has given the dream and its interpretation to Daniel.
Arioch was in charge of the executions. He did not want to kill all of them, but had to, or lose his own life. He was happy to report to the king that one of the captives of Judah had the dream for him.
Daniel 2:26 "The king answered and said to Daniel, whose name [was] Belteshazzar, Art thou able to make known unto me the dream which I have seen, and the interpretation thereof?"
We remember, from a previous lesson, that Nebuchadnezzar had changed Daniel's name to Belteshazzar. The king had not wanted to kill the men either. He just wanted to know about his dream.
Daniel 2:27 "Daniel answered in the presence of the king, and said, The secret which the king hath demanded cannot the wise [men], the astrologers, the magicians, the soothsayers, show unto the king;"
Daniel first tells Nebuchadnezzar the impossibility of man to do what the king had asked. Only God could reveal this dream. He is, in a sense, defending the wise men.
Daniel 2:28 "But there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days. Thy dream, and the visions of thy head upon thy bed, are these;"
This was Daniel's opportunity to tell Nebuchadnezzar of his God. Daniel will give God the glory for it all. God reveals these secrets to His own. Daniel belonged to God, so he has the dream and interpretation.
This vision is for the latter days, not for the next few days. First, Daniel tells him he dreamed of his head upon the bed.
Daniel 2:29 "As for thee, O king, thy thoughts came [into thy mind] upon thy bed, what should come to pass hereafter: and he that revealeth secrets maketh known to thee what shall come to pass."
Notice, Daniel puts the emphasis on Nebuchadnezzar inquiring of God. Daniel also says, it is not he that has the answer, but God.
Daniel 2:30 "But as for me, this secret is not revealed to me for [any] wisdom that I have more than any living, but for [their] sakes that shall make known the interpretation to the king, and that thou mightest know the thoughts of thy heart."
Daniel is a humble man. He says, this was not for his own benefit this happened, but because God wanted to reveal something to Nebuchadnezzar. Perhaps, that was the main reason, but God also wanted to elevate Daniel in the eyes of Nebuchadnezzar.
Daniel is not looking for wealth or fame from this. He is not even wanting them to think of him above others. He wants to save the lives of his friends, himself, and the other men who had been condemned to die.
Daniel 2:31 "Thou, O king, sawest, and behold a great image. This great image, whose brightness [was] excellent, stood before thee; and the form thereof [was] terrible."
This great image in the dream of Nebuchadnezzar, and in the night vision of Daniel, is symbolic of 4 great world powers, which soon come on the scene. "Terrible" speaks of the great power associated with this image.
Daniel 2:32 "This image's head [was] of fine gold, his breast and his arms of silver, his belly and his thighs of brass,"
This is like a giant of a man. In the spiritual sense, we know that God is above all. God is symbolized by gold, and also, is the head of the body of Christ. Silver speaks of redemption, and is between the gold and the bronze. Redemption is always between God and judgment. "Bronze" symbolizes judgment.
In this particular case, one of the meanings that stand out the most is given later in the chapter, and explains these are different empires represented. The gold of the head is speaking of the Babylonian empire. The silver is speaking of the empire of Media and Persia. The bronze speaks of the Greek empire.
Daniel 2:33 "His legs of iron, his feet part of iron and part of clay."
The "iron" symbolizes hardness, and "clay" speaks of the earthy. The feet of clay and iron speak of the Roman Empire.
The first thing we must notice in the legs (2 legs), is that they are divided. There were two sides to the old Roman Empire. The clay speaks of the worldliness of this empire. We do know there were very poor morals of the people during this time. This empire was strong enough to stand against Persia, but their foundation was of clay.
Daniel 2:34 "Thou sawest till that a stone was cut out without hands, which smote the image upon his feet [that were] of iron and clay, and brake them to pieces."
This "Stone" is the Cornerstone, Jesus Christ. Rome was in power when Jesus came to the earth as the Savior of the world.
Mark 12:10 "And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner:"
Jesus was rejected of His Hebrew family. He actually defeated sin and Satan on the cross, and defeated death in His resurrection. Rome, or any other government, cannot stand against God.
Matthew 21:44 "And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder."
Jesus is King and Lord to all who believe. His kingdom is not of this world.
John 18:36 "Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence."
In a sense, all believers are His kingdom, because He dwells in us.
Daniel 2:35 "Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshing floors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth."
All of these earthly kingdoms give way to that heavenly kingdom headed by Jesus Christ. The "mountain" is speaking of the multitude of believers, who have become servants to Jesus and His kingdom. The whole earth is filled with the knowledge of God.
We will see from the following Scripture, the people that have been affected by the Lord Jesus.
Revelation 7:9 "After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;"
Daniel 2:36 "This [is] the dream; and we will tell the interpretation thereof before the king."
All that had been said before was in the dream that Nebuchadnezzar had. Now, Daniel will start his interpretation of that dream.
Daniel 2:37 "Thou, O king, [art] a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory."
This is spoken to Nebuchadnezzar. Notice, he is a king of kings, and not the King of kings. God made Nebuchadnezzar king. His power, and strength, and glory all came from God. We see from the following Scripture that a king is king, because God made him king.
Proverbs 8:15 "By me kings reign, and princes decree justice."
Daniel 2:38 "And wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the heaven hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. Thou [art] this head of gold."
Nebuchadnezzar was a powerful king. The Babylonian rule was over all the nations they conquered. The men, women, and children were subject to him.
Even the animals became his to command. It seemed, during the greatness of this empire, that even the animals and birds were his to command.
He was the head of gold. He was like a god to these people.
Daniel 2:39 "And after thee shall arise another kingdom inferior to thee, and another third kingdom of brass, which shall bear rule over all the earth."
Gold is a more precious metal than silver, and silver is more precious than bronze. The position on the body of the image, also, showed their value. The gold was higher up the body than the silver, and the bronze was below the silver.
This kingdom that the silver represents is the Persian Empire. The bronze represents the Greek empire. Alexander the great did almost conquer the known world at that time.
Daniel 2:40 "And the fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron: forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and subdueth all [things]: and as iron that breaketh all these, shall it break in pieces and bruise."
This 4th kingdom is speaking of the Roman Empire. I prefer to say both sides of the Roman Empire. They were an empire that ruled with an iron hand. It was actually officials of that Roman Empire who were involved in the crucifixion of Jesus.
This metal fittingly represents the Roman Empire which would be characterized by the description predicted. It did have armies in iron armor known as the iron Legions of Rome, and it had strength and invincibility.
Daniel 2:41 "And whereas thou sawest the feet and toes, part of potters' clay, and part of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; but there shall be in it of the strength of the iron, forasmuch as thou sawest the iron mixed with miry clay."
The iron in the 10 toes (kings), represents the Roman Empire in its revived form, prior to the second coming of Christ, as having iron like strength for conquest. But the clay mixed in depicts that the union (federation), of kings and nations would have fatal flaws of human weakness, so that it is inherently vulnerable.
We said earlier, how the clay spoke of their worldliness. They were a people of poor morals. Their armies were strong, but true strength comes from moral fiber.
Daniel 2:42 "And [as] the toes of the feet [were] part of iron, and part of clay, [so] the kingdom shall be partly strong, and partly broken."
This empire will rise again in the end times. We read a little about it in the following verse.
Daniel 7:7 "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."
We will deal with this more fully in the 7th chapter.
Daniel 2:43 "And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay."
In all the lands the Romans conquered, they really did mingle with the people of the foreign lands. They brought heavy taxes upon those they conquered.
The Jews really hated them. Even though the Jews were the ones in captivity, they still looked down at the Romans as immoral people.
Daniel 2:44 "And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, [but] it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever."
This kingdom is of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is King of kings and Lord of lords. God's kingdom ruled by Messiah is the final rule, never to be replaced. All the gates of hell cannot prevail against this kingdom. The subjects are the people of all nations, who are followers of, and believers in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Luke 1:33 "And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end."
When Jesus was on the earth as our Savior, His kingdom was spiritual. There is a time coming, when He will set up a physical kingdom, and reign upon this earth.
Revelation 20:6 "Blessed and holy [is] he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years."
He will reign even longer than the thousand years, as we see in the next verse.
Revelation 11:15 "And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become [the kingdoms] of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever."
Daniel 2:45 "Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream [is] certain, and the interpretation thereof sure."
The stone being cut out of the mountain without hands speaks of the deity of Christ. The stone is Messiah. The mountain pictures God's all transcending government that looms over weak earthly powers. Messiah is "cut out" of this sovereign realm by God, which accords with the Son of Man coming. "Without hands" denotes that the Messiah comes from God and is not of human origin or power.
Philippians 2:10 "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth;"
Nebuchadnezzar knows the dream is true. He will believe the prophecy, because the dream was true. Daniel has no hesitation. He knows the prophecy is true.
Daniel 2:46 "Then the king Nebuchadnezzar fell upon his face, and worshipped Daniel, and commanded that they should offer an oblation and sweet odors unto him."
The king believes everything Daniel has said. He also knows, that no fleshly man could have brought him this dream and interpretation. He worships Daniel, because of God in Daniel. We find the same thing happening to Peter in the following verse.
Acts 10:25 "And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped [him]."
King Nebuchadnezzar did not know God, and he worshipped Daniel, because of the supernatural ability God had given Daniel.
Daniel 2:47 "The king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth [it is], that your God [is] a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret."
This clarifies the king worshipping Daniel. He could not see God, so he worshipped the representative of God.
All the time, he was truly worshipping God for His greatness in revealing the dream to Daniel. Nebuchadnezzar is aware it was Daniel's God who revealed this secret to Daniel. Nebuchadnezzar recognized God, and said so in the Scripture above.
Daniel 2:48 "Then the king made Daniel a great man, and gave him many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief of the governors over all the wise [men] of Babylon."
God was sovereign in all of this. The glory went to God, but the benefits came to Daniel. Daniel's faithfulness to God is now rewarded. He has moved up in position in the land, as Joseph did when he interpreted Pharaoh's dream.
Daniel did not ask for rewards for himself, but they came as a blessing from God. Now, Daniel will have access to the king.
Daniel 2:49 "Then Daniel requested of the king, and he set Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, over the affairs of the province of Babylon: but Daniel [sat] in the gate of the king."
Daniel did not forget his friends, but requested they be put over the affairs of the province of Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar agreed, and also, sat Daniel in the gate of the king. He would be close to the king for advice, or counsel. The following Scripture could have had a great deal to do with why Daniel was put in the gate of the king.
Amos 5:15 "Hate the evil, and love the good, and establish judgment in the gate: it may be that the LORD God of hosts will be gracious unto the remnant of Joseph."
Judgment must be just. They must hate evil, and love good. Daniel does this very thing. God rewards those who are faithful to Him. Daniel found that out.
Daniel Chapter 2 Continued Questions
1. Who brought Daniel before the king?
2. Why did he bring him?
3. What was Daniel's name?
4. What defense did Daniel give for the astrologers, magicians, and soothsayers?
5. Who was the only One who could reveal the dream?
6. When is the dream for?
7. This was Daniel's opportunity to tell Nebuchadnezzar of his _____.
8. Who does Daniel put the emphasis on?
9. Why was this revealed to Daniel?
10. What was another reason God did this?
11. What did Nebuchadnezzar dream of?
12. What did it represent?
13. What does "terrible" speak of in verse 31?
14. Describe the image.
15. God is symbolized by what metal?
16. Bronze symbolizes ____________.
17. What empire is the gold of the head speaking of?
18. What empire does the silver represent?
19. What empire does the bronze represent?
20. What empire is represented by the iron and clay?
21. What is the first thing we must notice about the legs?
22. Who is the "Stone" in verse 34?
23. What did Jesus defeat on the cross?
24. Who are the Kingdom of Christ?
25. What did the Stone do to the other empires?
26. What is the "mountain" speaking of in verse 35?
27. What countries' people have been affected by Jesus?
28. Who is Daniel speaking to in verse 37?
29. What was Nebuchadnezzar like, to his people?
30. What empire does the silver represent?
31. The bronze represented the _________ Empire.
32. The feet of clay and iron represent what empire?
33. The clay spoke of their _____________.
34. Who sets up the kingdom that shall never be destroyed?
35. This kingdom is of the ________ ________ _________.
36. What effect did the interpretation have on Nebuchadnezzar?
37. What did he say about Daniel's God?
38. What did he do for Daniel?
39. What did Daniel get the king to do for his 3 friends?
Daniel 3:1 "Nebuchadnezzar the king made an image of gold, whose height [was] threescore cubits, [and] the breadth thereof six cubits: he set it up in the plain of Dura, in the province of Babylon."
The statue, which the king arrogantly made, represented himself as an expression of his greatness and glory and reflected the dream where he was the head of gold.
This established the worship of Nebuchadnezzar and the nation under his power, in addition to the other gods.
This image of gold is 90 feet high and 9 feet wide. This image is the size of a fairly large tree. If it was made of pure gold, it was extremely heavy. The gold could have been a covering over some other metal or material.
"Dura" means circle, or dwelling. This just means that it was within the boundary of Babylon. Gold is symbolic of God, so he made a false god.
Daniel 3:2 "Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the princes, the governors, and the captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up."
Nebuchadnezzar had recognized the God of Daniel, as being the greatest of all gods in the last chapter. He built this to a false god in the verses above. He still believes in the false gods of Babylon, even though he recognized the One True God. Now that this golden image is erected, he sends for all the dignitaries in the country to come to the dedication of the false god.
He even called for those rulers of the provinces around, as well. I would like to mention again here, that anything you can see with your physical eyes is not God. If you can see it with physical eyes, it is a false god.
These leaders are satraps, or leaders over regions; perfects, or military chiefs; governors, or civil arbiters; magistrates, or judges in our sense today; rulers, or other civil leaders.
Daniel 3:3 "Then the princes, the governors, and captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, were gathered together unto the dedication of the image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up; and they stood before the image that Nebuchadnezzar had set up."
It seems all of the surrounding world has come to worship this false god. Man, throughout all ages, seems to be eager to worship some false god that he can see. These people are no different. Look, with me, at what Paul had to say about this very thing.
Romans 1:21-23 "Because that, when they knew God, they glorified [him] not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened." "Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools," " And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things."
Daniel 3:4 "Then a herald cried aloud, To you it is commanded, O people, nations, and languages,"
This leaves no one out. It includes all people who are near enough to hear the herald. Notice, also this is not a request, but a command.
Daniel 3:5 "[That] at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of music, ye fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king hath set up:"
The children of Israel worshipped the golden calf on the way to the Promised Land. They danced, and sang and the Bible speaks of revelry going on. The music seems to accompany worship of false gods, as well as the True God.
Music prepares the heart to receive a message. We are told over and over to worship God with songs of praise. There is nothing wrong with music. There could be something wrong with the type of music we listen to. To fall down and worship a false god is the height of abomination.
Daniel 3:6 "And whoso falleth not down and worshipeth shall the same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace."
Some ancient kilns were found to have been shaped like a vertical tunnel open only at the top, with a dome supported by columns. Charcoal normally served as fuel.
We see a very similar Scripture in the following.
Revelation 13:15 "And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed."
The forced worship of this image, here or even the forced religion of any kind is no good at all. Christianity is not really a religion, but a relationship with Jesus.
God wants men's hearts, not their formality of worship. Many will fall down before this image to save their lives, not to worship.
Daniel 3:7 "Therefore at that time, when all the people heard the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and all kinds of music, all the people, the nations, and the languages, fell down [and] worshipped the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up."
Fear of death caused them to worship this false god. It bothers me, even today, for a person to worship, even the One True God to simply avoid hell.
True worship consists of loving God with everything that is within you, and Him loving you. Anything else is far from the truth.
Daniel 3:8 "Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews."
Perhaps, there was some jealousy, because Daniel and his 3 friends had been raised to such a high position in the kingdom. These Chaldeans were carefully watching to find anything they might accuse them of.
These are most likely the priests of Bel-merodach who were envious of these young Jews, and sought their death.
Daniel 3:9 "They spake and said to the king Nebuchadnezzar, O king, live for ever."
This is a statement very similar to "long live the king". They must pay honor to Nebuchadnezzar, before they went on with their real purpose for coming.
In the book of Proverbs, you find this to be addressed numerous times when scripture is speaking of flattery. Normally done when somebody wants something and not to just make you feel good.
Daniel 3:10 "Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of music, shall fall down and worship the golden image:"
The king really did not need them to remind him of his decree. This possibly, is mentioned to him, to tell him there is no way out of punishing these Jews.
Daniel 3:11 "And whoso falleth not down and worshipeth, [that] he should be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace."
The punishment had been set from the beginning for those who would not worship this false god.
Daniel 3:12 "There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up."
These accusers were trying to say that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego were not honoring Nebuchadnezzar, or his image. They were pretending to be for Babylon and the king, and they were not loyal to him.
Someone in so high a position should be leading others to carry out the wishes of the king, not rebelling against his commands. Their jealousy of these Jews is showing.
First, they called them Jews, even though they used their Babylonian names. This is slight indication they wanted the king to believe they were faithful to Jerusalem, and not to him.
They, also, point out that the king had put them in their high positions. It is as if they are saying he should not have placed them above Babylonians. There also, is a progression of accusations.
First, they did not regard Nebuchadnezzar. Second, they did not worship his gods. Third, they did not bow down to the image.
Daniel 3:13 "Then Nebuchadnezzar in [his] rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. Then they brought these men before the king."
The anger of Nebuchadnezzar was so great it was spoken of as rage and fury.
It is interesting to me, they did not accuse Daniel as being part of the refusal to worship witnessed by the Chaldeans. If Daniel had been present, he surely would have joined these others in faithfulness to God.
Perhaps they were afraid Daniel had already proven himself, and the king might punish them instead. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego are brought to the king.
Daniel 3:14 "Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, [Is it] true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?"
The king was fair in asking them personally, if they were guilty of breaking his commandment.
Daniel 3:15 "Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of music, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; [well]: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who [is] that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?"
Nebuchadnezzar is giving them one more chance here, to conform to his command. He reminds them once more, that to disobey his command meant they would be thrown into the fiery furnace.
The king's challenge would return to embarrass him. The true God was able to deliver, just as He was able to reveal a dream and its meaning. Nebuchadnezzar had earlier called him "a God of gods", but having let that fade from his attention, he soon would be shocked and humiliated when God took up his challenge.
He almost mocks God with his statement; "Who is the God that shall deliver you out of my hands. He is saying, no god is more powerful than he is.
Daniel 3:16 "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we [are] not careful to answer thee in this matter."
This is simply saying, they do not need time to think about this, they have already made up their mind. They can give him their answer immediately.
The three men meant no disrespect. They did not have any defense, nor did they need to reconsider their commitment, since they stood fast for their God as the only true and living God. Their lives were in His hands as they indicated (in verses 17-18).
Daniel 3:17 "If it be [so], our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver [us] out of thine hand, O king."
They are not afraid of the fiery furnace, or of Nebuchadnezzar. They know God is their very present help in trouble. They are not speaking in an arrogant manner to the king. They are speaking their confidence in their God. If that is the way it is, they are more willing to face the furnace than to bow to a false god.
This type of faith is what we need, as well. The world beckons. It is our choice. Will we follow our God, even into the fire? Will we become afraid, and follow false gods of the world?
Daniel 3:18 "But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up."
This is another way of saying, "We will serve God and no other". They will not worship things made with human hands. They have made their decision to follow the One True God and no other.
Joshua 24:15 "And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that [were] on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."
Each person must make this decision. We cannot serve God and the world. We, too, must choose.
Daniel 3:19 "Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego: [therefore] he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated."
"Visage" means face. This just means that he was so full of fury that his whole face changed. The normal amount of fire would have burned anyone up who was thrown into it, but his anger caused him to say, "make it seven times hotter than usual".
The king's fury at being defied to his face led him to cry for an intensification of the heat. He was not literally requiring the fire to be 7 times hotter as a gauge would indicate, or requiring seven times as long to heat, or 7 times the amount of the fuel. The king in his anger means "intensely" hot.
He did not want anything left of these he thought had betrayed him. Seven speaks of perfection, so that might have been the idea of the seven times, as well.
Daniel 3:20 "And he commanded the most mighty men that [were] in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, [and] to cast [them] into the burning fiery furnace."
The mightiest men in his army bound them, and put them into the fire. Nebuchadnezzar, perhaps, thought they might escape, if he used lesser men for the task. It would also, take a very brave man to get this close to the fire.
Daniel 3:21 "Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their [other] garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace."
This is just saying they were fully clad, even to having on their hats. They were not naked.
Daniel 3:22 "Therefore because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego."
The men who put them into the fire were slain by the fire. The flame which burned in the furnace lapped out and caught the mighty men of Nebuchadnezzar on fire, and killed them. They did what they were commanded to do, but it killed them.
In an earlier verse, we saw that some ancient kilns were found to have been shaped like a vertical tunnel open only at the top, with a dome supported by columns. In the NASE version of this scripture, this scripture states: "the flame of the fire slew those men who carried up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego".
This refers to being taken upward on some kind of a ramp to a spot near enough to the top to be thrown in. The fire was so hot that it incinerated the king's men. (heat rises)
Daniel 3:23 "And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace."
A fire this hot would ordinarily have burned them beyond recognition in a matter of seconds. Notice, they were in the middle of the fire.
I would remind you here that God saved Noah in the flood, and not from the flood. God saved Joseph in Egypt, not from Egypt. God saved Joseph in the famine, not from the famine. God saved Elijah and the widow in the famine, not from the famine (read about this in 1 Kings chapter 17).
God does not always spare us from our problems He helps us with those problems.
Daniel 3:24 "Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, [and] spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king."
Something of great magnitude has caught the eye of Nebuchadnezzar. Some early versions of this Scripture say that they were singing praises in the middle of the fire.
He ran to see, if he was remembering correctly, that there were three men in the fire. His attendants agreed with him.
Daniel 3:25 "He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God."
God is ever present with those who trust Him. This fourth person in the fire is the Son of God. Look, with me, at the beautiful promise that was fulfilled, here, for these 3 men who pleased God.
Isaiah 43:2 "When thou passest through the waters, I [will be] with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee."
God is a consuming fire, so fire is nothing to Him. They put their faith in the Lord, and He did not fail them. He was in the fire with them, protecting them from its flames. This divine presence will be with us in all of our troubles, if we will continue to trust in the Lord. God promises us supernatural protection in time of trouble, if we trust in Him.
Psalms 91:7 "A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; [but] it shall not come nigh thee."
There were several things to be gained from this. More faith for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. There was also, a world looking on, seeing how they would handle this problem. This was a witness to them. The king's heart will be changed.
Daniel 3:26 "Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, [and] spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come [hither]. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, came forth of the midst of the fire."
The king recognizes their God. He, also, recognizes they are in good standing with that God. Nebuchadnezzar will have great respect for them standing up to him in this. They are men of great faith.
It is Nebuchadnezzar, himself, who calls them from the fire.
Daniel 3:27 "And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was a hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them."
When God enacts a miracle, He supernaturally controls all details so that His power is unmistakable and there is no other explanation.
This was an eye opener for all of these people. They see the might of the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. This was a great witness to all of them. They might have been in the fire, but God had been with them and protected them. No false god could do this.
There must have been conversions that day to the One True God. They had been protected so well, there was no smell of smoke upon them. It was as if God had them in a fire-proof capsule. He did, in a sense. They were covered with His robe. The blood of the Lord Jesus Christ covers us, and protects us from the devil.
In verses 28-30, the king was convinced and eager to add the God of these men to his panoply of deities. Soon he learned that God was not one of many, but the only God.
Daniel 3:28 "[Then] Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed [be] the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God."
Again, Nebuchadnezzar recognizes God as being their help. You remember, he had mocked God at the beginning, saying their God could not protect them from his judgment. Now, he realizes their God can protect them.
There is no other god that can save like their God. Nebuchadnezzar blesses the One True God. He was right the first time. It was the Son of God that saved them.
Daniel 3:29 "Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort."
Nebuchadnezzar's recognition of the God of the three men does not mean that he converted to their religion. It was simply an acknowledgment of their God's power.
The sad thing in all of this is the fact that Nebuchadnezzar does not say this is the Only God. He does say, no other has the power of God. He does recognize Him as the most powerful God. He, also, allows the worship of God by anyone who desires, without persecution for that worship. The punishment will be great for those who speak against God.
Daniel 3:30 "Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, in the province of Babylon."
We see that they were greatly blessed by standing up for what is right. The message we can get from this is; we may be going through a tunnel of problems, but God is with us. The sun is shining at the end of that tunnel of problems. Stay faithful, and God will reward you in the end.
Daniel Chapter 3 Questions
1. What was the size of the image Nebuchadnezzar made?
2. What was it made of?
3. Dura means ________, or _____________.
4. Where was this image located?
5. Who did the king call to help dedicate this image?
6. Anything you can see with your physical eyes is not _____.
7. Who cried aloud, the command of Nebuchadnezzar, concerning this image?
8. What would happen, just before they were to bow down?
9. Music prepares the heart to receive a _________.
10. Christianity is not really a religion, but a __________ with Jesus.
11. Fear of ________ caused them to worship the false god.
12. Who accused the Jews?
13. What would happen to those, who did not fall down and worship the false god?
14. Who were the accused by name?
15. Why had these accusers done this?
16. How did Nebuchadnezzar feel about this?
17. How do we know the king tried to be fair to the three men of God?
18. What does he do in verse 15?
19. How does he almost mock God?
20. How did Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego answer the king?
21. Why are they not afraid of the king, or the fire?
22. What does "visage" mean?
23. How much hotter than normal did they make the fire?
24. Who bound them, and threw them in the fire?
25. What happened to them?
26. What happened to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego?
27. What must we remember about Noah, Joseph, and Elijah?
28. Who did Nebuchadnezzar see in the fire?
29. Who was the fourth man?
30. Who is helped, besides Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego?
31. What effect did this have on Nebuchadnezzar?
32. What decree did he make?
33. What is sad about this?
34. What happened to the three men, who had been in the fire?
Nebuchadnezzar's praise of God (in 4:1-3 and 34b-37), is the theme that brackets the experience the king reiterates in the first person (verses 4-34). He began and ended the narrative with praise, and in between told why he converted to such worship of the true God.
Daniel 4:1 "Nebuchadnezzar the king, unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you."
Nebuchadnezzar is sending a message to the entire world, and not just to his people.
Apparently, some time had elapsed between the events of chapter 3 and those of chapter 4. Nebuchadnezzar's boast (in verse 30), would not have been spoken until after many of his massive building operations had been completed.
Daniel 4:2 "I thought it good to show the signs and wonders that the high God hath wrought toward me."
Nebuchadnezzar is convinced the things that Daniel did, and the things that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego did, were signs from God to cause him to believe. He is convinced that God is the high God, and now, he will proclaim it to all who will believe.
Daniel 4:3 "How great [are] his signs! and how mighty [are] his wonders! his kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and his dominion [is] from generation to generation."
Nebuchadnezzar is elevating God the only way he knows how. His words are praising God, and all of His deeds. The statements are true.
God's kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. His dominion is of all men, and reaches from generation to generation.
Daniel 4:4 "I Nebuchadnezzar was at rest in mine house, and flourishing in my palace:"
This is going back to the beginning of the account of his dream and Daniel's interpretation of that dream. It is an understatement to say that his reign was flourishing.
He was the undisputed ruler of Babylon, and all of their captives. He was safe in his bed in his palace.
Daniel 4:5 "I saw a dream which made me afraid, and the thoughts upon my bed and the visions of my head troubled me."
These are speaking of the dream he had of the image that had the golden head. He not only was frightened by the dream, but forgot the details of the dream, as well.
Daniel 4:6 "Therefore made I a decree to bring in all the wise [men] of Babylon before me, that they might make known unto me the interpretation of the dream."
It was urgent for him to know the meaning of his dream, and he called all of those he knew that interpreted dreams to him. Surely one of them would be able to tell him of his dream.
Daniel 4:7 "Then came in the magicians, the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers: and I told the dream before them; but they did not make known unto me the interpretation thereof."
We discussed in a previous lesson that their power was from Satan, and was very limited. They were depending on flesh and Satan. Neither thing helped with the dream.
They were about to be killed, because they did not know the meaning of the dream.
Daniel 4:8 "But at the last Daniel came in before me, whose name [was] Belteshazzar, according to the name of my god, and in whom [is] the spirit of the holy gods: and before him I told the dream, [saying],"
Belteshazzar was the name Nebuchadnezzar had given Daniel to honor a false god. We see that Nebuchadnezzar still believes in many gods at this point ("according to the name of my god").
This reminds us, that it was Daniel who tells the king the meaning of his dream. It is God in Daniel who tells of the dream.
Daniel 4:9 "O Belteshazzar, master of the magicians, because I know that the spirit of the holy gods [is] in thee, and no secret troubleth thee, tell me the visions of my dream that I have seen, and the interpretation thereof."
Master of the magicians was the title the pagans gave him (meaning the name they gave Nebuchadnezzar). Spirit: The meaning here and (in verse 18; as well as in 5:11 and 14), is rightfully translated by some versions as "the Spirit of the Holy God." Wording for the true God in the Hebrew of (Joshua 24:19), is equivalent to the Aramaic here.
Some translators believe he meant "a spirit of the holy gods." This is unlikely, since no pagan worshipers claimed purity or holiness for their deities. In fact, just the opposite was believed. And since Nebuchadnezzar was rehearsing his conversion, he could genuinely identify the true Spirit of God.
This verse starts the beginning of a new dream. This has nothing to do with the last few verses, except they showed why Nebuchadnezzar had confidence in Daniel to interpret this dream.
Notice the title, master. He had given Daniel that title after he interpreted Nebuchadnezzar's dream. Nebuchadnezzar has recognized that God is with Daniel and will give him the interpretation.
It is interesting that he used the term (the spirit of the holy gods is in thee). He feels that no dream is too hard for Daniel to interpret.
(In verses 4:10-17), we see a tree. This pictures Nebuchadnezzar after 605 B.C.). The creatures (in verse 12), represent people under his rule (verse 22). The fall of the tree represents the coming time of God's judgment on him.
Daniel 4:10 "Thus [were] the visions of mine head in my bed; I saw, and behold, a tree in the midst of the earth, and the height thereof [was] great."
This is a night vision, or perhaps, a dream. In dreams, trees sometimes mean men. This, of course, is speaking of Nebuchadnezzar himself, who has found such greatness as king of Babylon.
Daniel 4:11 "The tree grew, and was strong, and the height thereof reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to the end of all the earth:"
We see in this, that Nebuchadnezzar had become great, not only in his own land, but in many other countries that he had conquered, as well.
Daniel 4:12 "The leaves thereof [were] fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it [was] meat for all: the beasts of the field had shadow under it, and the fowls of the heaven dwelt in the boughs thereof, and all flesh was fed of it."
This great land under the rule of Nebuchadnezzar had flourished. God had used them to win battles against His beloved Israel. They had brought great wealth and many people back with them as captives.
It seemed everything they did prospered. There was plenty of food for the captives, as well as for the Babylonians.
Daniel 4:13 "I saw in the visions of my head upon my bed, and, behold, a watcher and a holy one came down from heaven;"
This watcher was an angel, a servant of God, who controlled a nation's rise or fall. Angels often have roles administering God's judgment as shown also (in chapters of Genesis 18, Isaiah 37 and Rev. 16).
Daniel 4:14 "He cried aloud, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cut off his branches, shake off his leaves, and scatter his fruit: let the beasts get away from under it, and the fowls from his branches:"
This speaks of God looking down on Nebuchadnezzar, and judging him. It is God who elevates a man up to be king. It is also, God who judges him, and brings him down.
Daniel 4:15 "Nevertheless leave the stump of his roots in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and [let] his portion [be] with the beasts in the grass of the earth:"
This speaks of judgment without total destruction. "Brass" always symbolizes judgment. "Iron" is speaking of worldly strength.
The nucleus of the kingdom, still in existence (in verse 26), will later sprout as in nature (Job 14:7-9). The band is a guarantee that God will protect what remains intact and preserve the king's rule (verse 26).
This is speaking of a time, when Nebuchadnezzar will be no more than an animal. He will eat grass, and drink of the dew that falls.
Daniel 4:16 "Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him."
This is really speaking of a man who has lost his power to reason. Perhaps, it is speaking of a mental collapse. There is a form of the disease called Lycanthropy, in which a person thinks he is an animal and lives wildly, that causes him to eat grass, have thick and unkept nails, shaggy hair and behave inhumanly. (Lycanthropy is a psychosis in which the patient has delusions of being a wild animal (usually a wolf).
This illness that brings this about is a judgment from God (it drops like dew from heaven).
Daniel 4:17 "This matter [is] by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men."
This is somewhat interpreted by Nebuchadnezzar. He is aware of the judgment of God. He is also aware, that God is proving that it is He that elevates a man to be a king. It is also God who brings a man down.
God was with Nebuchadnezzar, when he attacked Judah. The attack was actually a judgment of God. He went too far in his attack. He did things God had not told him to do. Now, it is his turn to be judged.
Daniel 4:18 "This dream I king Nebuchadnezzar have seen. Now thou, O Belteshazzar, declare the interpretation thereof, forasmuch as all the wise [men] of my kingdom are not able to make known unto me the interpretation: but thou [art] able; for the spirit of the holy gods [is] in thee."
Nebuchadnezzar is confident that Daniel can interpret this dream accurately. He has seen that Daniel interpreted his other dream, when no one else could. He recognizes the fact that Daniel's power to interpret is from God.
Daniel 4:19 "Then Daniel, whose name [was] Belteshazzar, was astonished for one hour, and his thoughts troubled him. The king spake, and said, Belteshazzar, let not the dream, or the interpretation thereof, trouble thee. Belteshazzar answered and said, My lord, the dream [be] to them that hate thee, and the interpretation thereof to thine enemies."
The astonishment (meaning appalled for a time), of Daniel was at the meaning of the dream. For one hour he waited to give the interpretation, because he knew it was not a good dream for Nebuchadnezzar. His thoughts were troubled, because of the reaction Nebuchadnezzar might have to the interpretation.
Nebuchadnezzar encourages Daniel. He probably, already knows the dream is a bad one. Daniel explains to him that this dream would please his enemies, and not him.
Daniel 4:20-22 "The tree that thou sawest, which grew, and was strong, whose height reached unto the heaven, and the sight thereof to all the earth;" "Whose leaves [were] fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it [was] meat for all; under which the beasts of the field dwelt, and upon whose branches the fowls of the heaven had their habitation:" It [is] thou, O king, that art grown and become strong: for thy greatness is grown, and reacheth unto heaven, and thy dominion to the end of the earth."
This part of the dream will be pleasing to Nebuchadnezzar. He knows that the message is true. He has conquered, and become great in the known world. He was thought of as one of the most powerful kings who had reigned to that time.
There was no more beautiful city anywhere, than Babylon with their hanging gardens. There were people of many nations living in Babylon at this time. There was food enough for all.
Daniel 4:23 "And whereas the king saw a watcher and a holy one coming down from heaven, and saying, Hew the tree down, and destroy it; yet leave the stump of the roots thereof in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and [let] his portion [be] with the beasts of the field, till seven times pass over him;"
Nothing escapes God. He knows all that happens in the earth. The tree is Nebuchadnezzar. God has judged him, and found him guilty. He will not die, but will lose his mind, and go to the field as an animal, and eat grass.
The seven times probably means seven years, because the word times refers to years (in 7:25), and because seven days or months would not have been long enough for Nebuchadnezzar's hair to grow to the length of eagle feathers (as mentioned in verse 33).
Daniel 4:24 "This [is] the interpretation, O king, and this [is] the decree of the most High, which is come upon my lord the king:"
The decree in this is speaking of the judgment of God. God speaks it, and it will be. It is not the world that judged Nebuchadnezzar, or even Daniel; it is God.
Daniel 4:25 "That they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and they shall wet thee with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over thee, till thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will."
The purpose in this is that Nebuchadnezzar will recognize God for who He really is. He must learn that a man is king, because God made him king, and for no other reason.
Grass and water is to be his menu. The word "times" is sometimes used to mean a year. A very good example of that is time, times, and half a time; later on in the book of Daniel.
Daniel 4:26 "And whereas they commanded to leave the stump of the tree roots; thy kingdom shall be sure unto thee, after that thou shalt have known that the heavens do rule."
Nebuchadnezzar will not be killed. God will just humble him. He will not even lose the kingdom. He is not banished. He must learn that God rules everything on the earth, as well as in heaven. When he learns his lesson, he will be sound of mind again.
Daniel 4:27 "Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by showing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquility."
This is Daniel encouraging Nebuchadnezzar to repent and receive righteousness in his life. He must do good, and not evil. Daniel wants Nebuchadnezzar to accept this interpretation with as much eagerness as the first one.
Daniel called for a recognition of sin and repentance. He was not presenting a works salvation, but treating the issue of sin exactly as Jesus did with the rich young ruler (in Matthew 19:16-23). The king failed to repent at this point.
Daniel says, if he will quickly repent and show mercy, then God will let him live in peace.
Daniel 4:28 "All this came upon the king Nebuchadnezzar."
This is not for the nation and its people; this is for Nebuchadnezzar as an individual.
Daniel 4:29 "At the end of twelve months he walked in the palace of the kingdom of Babylon."
It appears from this that nothing happened in the next twelve months. Probably, Nebuchadnezzar thought the interpretation would not come about, since it had been this long. But God does not regard time, as you and I do.
Daniel 4:30 "The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honor of my majesty?"
Nebuchadnezzar was known for his building projects, such as a 400 foot high mountain terraced with flowing water and hanging gardens for his wife (one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world), as a place for cool refreshment. For such pride, judgment fell.
Nebuchadnezzar is almost mocking God in this statement. He says Babylon is still here, and I am still king. Where is the fulfillment of this dream you interpreted?
Notice in this verse, Nebuchadnezzar gives himself credit for building his kingdom. It is interesting too, that all of this was not done for the glory of God, but for the glory of Nebuchadnezzar.
Daniel 4:31 "While the word [was] in the king's mouth, there fell a voice from heaven, [saying], O king Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken; The kingdom is departed from thee."
He did not heed the voice of Daniel, who interpreted his dream. This voice does not speak through Daniel. This voice came from heaven itself.
This judgment is unquestionable. It does not come from the mouth of man, but the mouth of God.
Daniel 4:32 "And they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling [shall be] with the beasts of the field: they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and seven times shall pass over thee, until thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will."
These are the same Words Daniel had given him. He will eat grass and live like an animal, until he realizes it is God who makes kings.
Daniel 4:33 "The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar: and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles' [feathers], and his nails like birds' [claws]."
This is an instant fulfillment of the judgment. His nails, having not been cut for seven years, would be like bird's claws. His hair would grow extremely long and straight in a period of seven years, also.
This is the description of a man who has lost his mind. Seven speaks of spiritual completeness.
Two important questions arise from this incident:
(1) Could it happen to a man; and
(2) Could it have happened to Nebuchadnezzar?
The answer to both questions is yes. There is a mental illness known as zoanthropy in which a man thinks and acts like an animal. It is also called boanthropy, more specifically, when a man thinks of himself as an ox. In answer to the second question, this illness is not mentioned in Nebuchadnezzar's annals, but one would not expect such a humiliating experience to be chronicled. On the other hand, his long reign of 43 years is more than long enough to include the lengthy sickness.
Daniel 4:34 "And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honored him that liveth for ever, whose dominion [is] an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom [is] from generation to generation:"
When the judgment was complete, Nebuchadnezzar's mind was restored, and he worshipped God. His spiritual growth is complete. He now worships and praises the One True God.
God's grace enables a person to do this.
Daniel 4:35 "And all the inhabitants of the earth [are] reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and [among] the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?"
Now, Nebuchadnezzar knows that nothing, or no one, has any control, except God. God commands the sun to shine, and it does. Heaven and earth must bow before Him. He alone is God.
Deuteronomy 4:39 "Know therefore this day, and consider [it] in thine heart, that the LORD he [is] God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: [there is] none else."
Ephesians 4:6 "One God and Father of all, who [is] above all, and through all, and in you all."
Daniel 4:36 "At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, mine honor and brightness returned unto me; and my counsellors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me."
The root of the tree (Nebuchadnezzar), has been watered from heaven. He now springs to life. His kingdom is restored to him, as well as honor as king.
The difference is that Nebuchadnezzar, now knows God. His wisdom now, is of God. God will greatly bless him.
Daniel 4:37 "Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, all whose works [are] truth, and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase."
We, now, see a humble man who happens to be king. He is now, aware that what we are is because of God. He brings us up, or takes us down. God does whatever it takes to make us realize our need for Him. God punished him for his own good. He did it to make him seek God. He now understands the sovereignty of God.
Daniel Chapter 4 Questions
1. Who sends the message in verse 1?
2. What does Nebuchadnezzar believe were signs to him from God?
3. What understatement does Nebuchadnezzar make in verse 4?
4. Who had Nebuchadnezzar first called to interpret his dream?
5. Who interpreted the dream?
6. What was Daniel's Babylonian name?
7. What request does Nebuchadnezzar make of Daniel in verse 9?
8. In dreams, trees sometimes are speaking of _______.
9. Who is the tree speaking of?
10. Who is the Watcher of verse 13?
11. What did the Watcher say to do to the tree?
12. Who elevates kings, or brings them down?
13. What is verse 15 speaking of?
14. What does "brass" symbolize?
15. How do we know Nebuchadnezzar will be no more than an animal?
16. Having a beast's heart is saying, he has lost his power to ________.
17. Judgment comes on him like what?
18. Why is this happening to Nebuchadnezzar?
19. The attack on Judah was actually a _____________ of God.
20. Why does Nebuchadnezzar believe Daniel can interpret his dream?
21. Why was Daniel astonished at the dream?
22. How long did he wait to give the interpretation?
23. Who is the tree in the dream?
24. "Times" often means what?
25. What is the decree?
26. Why is this judgment coming against Nebuchadnezzar?
27. What is Daniel encouraging Nebuchadnezzar to do?
28. How many months passed with nothing happening?
29. How does he nearly mock God?
30. Describe how the judgment came?
31. What happened to Nebuchadnezzar's hair and nails during this long time?
32. These are descriptions of a man who has ________ his _______.
33. When was his mind restored?
34. What was restored to Nebuchadnezzar?
35. How was he restored?
36. What is different about Nebuchadnezzar, now?
37. Why did God punish him?
38. He now understands the _______________ of God.
Daniel 5:1 "Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine before the thousand."
We must quickly make note that this is not Daniel, whose name had been changed to Belteshazzar. Belshazzar, the king, was not the son of Nebuchadnezzar, but the grandson. History tells us his mother, Nitocris, was the daughter of Nebuchadnezzar.
It appears, they are having a great feast. Perhaps as many as a thousand people are in attendance, so this is a very big party. They were drinking wine at the feast, so we may assume it was a festive occasion.
These events occurred (in 539 B.C.), over two decades after Nebuchadnezzar's death. This king, whose name means "Bel, protect the king," is about to be conquered by the Medo-Persian army.
The years between Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar are filled with murder, intrigue, conspiracy, and political decline. Nebuchadnezzar was succeeded by his son Evil-merodach who had reigned for only two years when he was murdered by his brother in law, Neriglissar. After a brief reign, Neriglissar died, leaving the kingdom in the hands of his son, Labashi-marduk. The latter lasted only two months before being killed by an assassin and succeeded by Nabonidus.
Nabonidus, who was probably the son in law of Nebuchadnezzar, reigned for some 16 years. Although he left the kingdom in the hands of his son Belshazzar for much of the time, Nabonidus was able to restore a measure of glory to Babylon.
Belshazzar ruled as king during the last years of Babylon. It is not evident until the end of the chapter, but while Belshazzar was feasting in revelry, the city was surrounded by the Persian army. Belshazzar considered the city unassailable because of its massive walls, and therefore felt confident to hold a banquet in the face of military threat.
Daniel 5:2 "Belshazzar, whiles he tasted the wine, commanded to bring the golden and silver vessels which his father Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of the temple which [was] in Jerusalem; that the king, and his princes, his wives, and his concubines, might drink therein."
This calls Nebuchadnezzar his father, but he was his grandfather, as we said in the verse above.
The celebration was designed to boost morale and break the feelings of doom, because at this very time, armies of Medo-Persia (verse 30), had Babylon helplessly under siege.
Daniel 5:3 "Then they brought the golden vessels that were taken out of the temple of the house of God which [was] at Jerusalem; and the king, and his princes, his wives, and his concubines, drank in them."
These atheists had no idea what they were doing. The silver and the gold vessels were holy, and dedicated to God alone. To drink from these vessels, would be a terrible sin before God.
This is such a terrible thing to do, that judgment will be swift. Look, with me, at the following New Testament Scripture about the same thing.
1 Thessalonians 5:3 "For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape."
God will not overlook this act of disrespect for His holy things. They have sealed their own fate, by this terrible thing they have done.
Daniel 5:4 "They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold, and of silver, of brass, of iron, of wood, and of stone."
As if defiling His holy things is not enough, they worship false gods using God's vessels. All of these idols made of earthly things do not bring life. They have no power to help anyone. They can only destroy.
This exercise was a call for their deities to deliver them.
Even the destruction does not come directly from them. God brings the destruction, as judgment against them.
Daniel 5:5 "In the same hour came forth fingers of a man's hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaster of the wall of the king's palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote."
These fingers and hand came out of the total darkness, and came to a lighted area of the wall near the lamp to write. This is where the statement (handwriting on the wall), came from. This is the hand of God. The finger of God had written the Ten Commandments.
This is the same finger, but with an entirely different purpose. This judgment is for the eyes of the king.
Babylonian hands had taken God's vessels (mentioned twice), and held them in contempt to dishonor and challenge Him. Now the hand that controls all men, and which none can restrain, challenged them. God's answer to their challenge was clear (as we'll see in verses 23-28).
Archaeologists have unearthed a room on the site of ancient Babylon, located in Iraq, that is plastered and measures 165 feet by 55 feet. It may very well have been Belshazzar's banquet hall.
Daniel 5:6 "Then the king's countenance was changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees smote one against another."
The fear of the king is so great, when this happens, that horror came upon his face, and his knees began to quake. He was quaking so badly that the joints of his hips come loose.
The Scripture is similar to the following from the New Testament.
Luke 21:26 "Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken."
Daniel 5:7 "The king cried aloud to bring in the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers. [And] the king spake, and said to the wise [men] of Babylon, Whosoever shall read this writing, and show me the interpretation thereof, shall be clothed with scarlet, and [have] a chain of gold about his neck, and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom."
This king is unfamiliar with Daniel. He calls for all the wise men, to see if anyone can tell him what this means.
"Scarlet" here, is speaking of purple. Purple symbolizes royalty. This robe would be showing the wearer to be of very high rank. The third ruler of the kingdom is saying he would rule over one-third of the kingdom.
This "chain of Gold" shows the power of authority he would have. We must realize that Daniel had been in the court of the kings for nearly 70 years at this point. Daniel had been one of the first captives, and this happens near the end of the captivity which was for 70 years.
Without God's help, the experts again failed as we see in the next couple of verses. But God's man Daniel would not.
Daniel 5:8 "Then came in all the king's wise [men]: but they could not read the writing, nor make known to the king the interpretation thereof."
These wise men were speaking of the sorcerers, and the astrologers, and the soothsayers. They had no real power, so certainly they could not tell of this message from God.
Daniel 5:9 "Then was king Belshazzar greatly troubled, and his countenance was changed in him, and his lords were astonished."
Their astonishment was at the hand that wrote.
Daniel 5:10 "[Now] the queen by reason of the words of the king and his lords came into the banquet house: [and] the queen spake and said, O king, live for ever: let not thy thoughts trouble thee, nor let thy countenance be changed:"
This is speaking of the queen mother, who remembers the interpretations of the king's dreams by Daniel. Perhaps, this king was unfamiliar with Daniel, since it was Nebuchadnezzar who had benefited from the interpretations of Daniel. She, at least, brings hope.
Daniel 5:11 "There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom [is] the spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of thy father light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, was found in him; whom the king Nebuchadnezzar thy father, the king, [I say], thy father, made master of the magicians, astrologers, Chaldeans, [and] soothsayers;"
Again Belshazzar the king, is called the son of Nebuchadnezzar, when, in fact, he is his grandson.
It appears from this, Daniel had not been prominent in this king's court. This is also, different from interpreting dreams. Perhaps, this is why he did not call for Daniel before. This queen recognizes the fact that Daniel is a man of God.
Daniel 5:12 "Forasmuch as an excellent spirit, and knowledge, and understanding, interpreting of dreams, and showing of hard sentences, and dissolving of doubts, were found in the same Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar: now let Daniel be called, and he will show the interpretation."
We see from this, that Daniel had done much more than interpret two dreams for the king. He was in charge of the eunuchs, after he had interpreted the first dream for Nebuchadnezzar. Nebuchadnezzar had renamed him Belteshazzar.
She has no doubt that Daniel can tell them what this handwriting is. He has made a good reputation, as being a man of God.
Daniel 5:13 "Then was Daniel brought in before the king. [And] the king spake and said unto Daniel, [Art] thou that Daniel, which [art] of the children of the captivity of Judah, whom the king my father brought out of Jewry?"
We see that this king was not acquainted with Daniel at all. Daniel had, probably, been demoted after the reign of Nebuchadnezzar. The king wants to make sure he is the right Daniel.
The word "father" is used in the same sense of grandfather which was probably a custom in those days to the Babylonians.
Daniel 5:14 "I have even heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods [is] in thee, and [that] light and understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee."
Even the unsaved world recognizes a person who is in good relationship with God. We can see from the verse above, that this king's information is hear-say. He has heard of Daniel.
Notice, light is mentioned in connection with wisdom and understanding.
Isaiah 9:2 "The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined."
2 Corinthians 4:6 "For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to [give] the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."
This is all saying, that Daniel is inhabited of his God. His power is God's power in him.
Daniel 5:15 "And now the wise [men], the astrologers, have been brought in before me, that they should read this writing, and make known unto me the interpretation thereof: but they could not show the interpretation of the thing:"
The wise men, spoken of in this verse, are the worldly wise. They have no power of God working within them. They would be of no help.
Daniel 5:16 "And I have heard of thee, that thou canst make interpretations, and dissolve doubts: now if thou canst read the writing, and make known to me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with scarlet, and [have] a chain of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third ruler in the kingdom."
Again, this is back to Daniel. He will be greatly rewarded of the king, when he tells what this writing is. All of the things mentioned, like the scarlet robe and the gold chain, show his authority to rule.
"The third ruler": This trio included Daniel, along with Belshazzar (553 - 539 B.C.), and Nabonidus, (ruled 555 - 539 B.C.). The prizes turned out to be non existent in light of the city's conquest that very night (verses 29-30).
Daniel 5:17 "Then Daniel answered and said before the king, Let thy gifts be to thyself, and give thy rewards to another; yet I will read the writing unto the king, and make known to him the interpretation."
Daniel is saying to him, forget the gifts. He will interpret the writing on the wall. Not only will Daniel read the writing, but he will explain the interpretation of it as well, to the king.
Daniel 5:18 "O thou king, the most high God gave Nebuchadnezzar thy father a kingdom, and majesty, and glory, and honor:"
This first statement, is probably a shock to the king. He had not given the Most High God credit for anything. In fact, they had many false gods in Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar's power to conquer was because God used him to fulfill His purpose.
Daniel 5:19 "And for the majesty that he gave him, all people, nations, and languages, trembled and feared before him: whom he would he slew; and whom he would he kept alive; and whom he would he set up; and whom he would he put down."
This power had seemed to be unlimited. He was a very powerful king, as long as he was doing the will of God.
Daniel 5:20 "But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him:"
When he went further than God had wanted him to, he was removed as king. Pride comes before a fall. This is what Jesus had to say about those who exalt themselves.
Luke 18:14 "I tell you, this man went down to his house justified [rather] than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
Daniel 5:21 "And he was driven from the sons of men; and his heart was made like the beasts, and his dwelling [was] with the wild asses: they fed him with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven; till he knew that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and [that] he appointeth over it whomsoever he will."
This experience happened to him, to make him realize that it was not by his own might he had become so powerful. He was left to eat grass as an animal, until he recognized God. It is God who makes a man king. It is also, God who brings them down.
John 19:11 "Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power [at all] against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin."
Daniel 5:22 "And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knewest all this;"
Now, we see Daniel explaining to Belshazzar that it will be no different with him. He is so proud, he has not given God credit for making him king. He is not a humble man. God will bring him down.
Daniel 5:23 "But hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven; and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee, and thou, and thy lords, thy wives, and thy concubines, have drunk wine in them; and thou hast praised the gods of silver, and gold, of brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know: and the God in whose hand thy breath [is], and whose [are] all thy ways, hast thou not glorified:"
The things of God are to be holy. They are not to be used by common man. This was blasphemy to use his holy vessels in such a manner.
Belshazzar and all these people worshipped things of this world. They did not worship the One True God. God breathed the breath of life into man, before man could even live. The man's very life depends upon God.
Things you can see with your eyes are part of God's creation and are not to be worshipped. They have worshipped God's creation and not the Creator God.
Daniel 5:24 "Then was the part of the hand sent from him; and this writing was written."
Daniel explains first, that this hand is God's hand. This writing is a judgment of God. God has weighed Belshazzar in the balance, and found him guilty.
Daniel 5:25 And this [is] the writing that was written, "MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN."
This was a miracle of God that Daniel could read the words. The more wonderful miracle is that Daniel knew this language, even in the natural. God can write in any language. He wanted Daniel to interpret the message, so he wrote it in a language Daniel knew.
The word Mene means "counted," or "appointed," and is doubled for stronger emphasis. Tekel means "weighed" or "assessed," by the God who weighs actions. Upharsin is the plural of Peres, possibly emphasizing the parts in the division. (Peres denotes divided, as to the Medes and Persians. The "U" prefix on Pharsin has the idea of the English word "and."
Jesus spoke a very similar message to this.
Luke 12:20 "But God said unto him, [Thou] fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?"
Daniel 5:26 "This [is] the interpretation of the thing: MENE; God hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it."
The fact that this judgment was pronounced twice showed it was soon to happen.
Daniel 5:27 "TEKEL; Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting."
God is a just God. He does not judge, before He carefully considers. He has considered, and now the judgment has come.
Daniel 5:28 "PERES; Thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians."
We have studied in previous lessons, the great fortification of Babylon. This must seem impossible to the king, because of that. UPHARSIN means divided. (and given to the Medes and Persians)
We must remember that Daniel was not only reading the words on the wall, but interpreting them as well. God told Daniel the Medes and the Persians would take Babylon.
Daniel 5:29 "Then commanded Belshazzar, and they clothed Daniel with scarlet, and [put] a chain of gold about his neck, and made a proclamation concerning him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom."
Daniel had not asked for these gifts, but Belshazzar gave them anyway. One thing we must realize here, Belshazzar did not reject the interpretation of Daniel. He knew what Daniel said was true.
Daniel 5:30 "In that night was Belshazzar the king of the Chaldeans slain."
That very night the fulfillment came, and Belshazzar was killed. Babylon fell to Darius.
Jeremiah 50:24 "I have laid a snare for thee, and thou art also taken, O Babylon, and thou wast not aware: thou art found, and also caught, because thou hast striven against the LORD."
An ancient account alleged that Persia's General Ugbaru had troops dig a trench to divert and thus lower the waters of the Euphrates River
. Since the river flowed through the city of Babylon, the lowered water enabled besiegers to unexpectedly invade via the waterway under the thick walls and reach the palace before the city was aware. The end then came quickly, as guards, Belshazzar and others were slain (on Oct. 16, 539 B.C.).
Daniel 5:31 "And Darius the Median took the kingdom, [being] bout threescore and two years old."
Babylon has fallen into the hands of the Medes. Darius is 62 years old, when he took the kingdom of Babylon.
Possibly Darius is not a name, but an honored title for Cyrus, who with his army entered Babylon. It is used in inscriptions for at least 5 Persian rulers. History mentions no specific man named Darius the Mede.
As far as his name goes, historians believe that the name Darius was not a proper name at all, but a title of honor meaning "Holder of the Scepter." In other words, "The Scepter Holder (King), of the Medes."
Daniel Chapter 5 Questions
1. What was the new king's name?
2. What must we quickly take note of about this name?
3. Who was his mother?
4. Who was her father?
5. What had the thousand people gathered for?
6. What did the king command to be brought to drink from?
7. Why should they not drink from these vessels?
8. Who drank from the vessels?
9. What did they do, besides drink wine from the holy vessels?
10. What power do false gods have?
11. What unusual thing happens in verse 5?
12. Who saw it?
13. What are these fingers?
14. What effect did this have on the king?
15. What will the king do, for the person who can tell him what this means?
16. Who did the king call for, to interpret the meaning of this for him?
17. What is "scarlet" speaking of?
18. What does the chain of Gold show?
19. Could the men Belshazzar called give him the interpretation?
20. Who came to the king, and told him of Daniel?
21. How did she describe Daniel?
22. Belshazzar is Nebuchadnezzar's _______________.
23. Did Belshazzar take her advice?
24. What power does Daniel have?
25. What was Daniel promised by Belshazzar?
26. What was Daniel's answer to Belshazzar?
27. Who had made Nebuchadnezzar king?
28. Why did God bring him down?
29. Why is God against Belshazzar?
30. Who gives man life?
31. What did the hand write on the wall?
32. What does MENE mean?
33. What does TEKEL mean?
34. What does UPHARSIN mean?
35. When was the judgment fulfilled?
36. Who became ruler?
Daniel 6:1 "It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom a hundred and twenty princes, which should be over the whole kingdom;"
This was a very large kingdom, and these men were set up to keep order in the land.
These princes are the "satraps" we had studied about previously. Each is a provincial administrator under the king. Daniel's eminent appointment was to a post as "commissioner", assisting the king as his vice-regent.
Daniel 6:2 "And over these three presidents; of whom Daniel [was] first: that the princes might give accounts unto them, and the king should have no damage."
These three men were of higher rank than the 120, and were closer to the king. It is unusual for a Hebrew to be over these Medes.
These "princes" were responsible to prevent loss from military revolts, tax evasion or fraud.
Perhaps, the word had come to them of Daniel's reading the handwriting on the wall and interpreting it. These three presidents were next in command under the king. It appears that each of them was over 1/3 of the kingdom.
Daniel 6:3 "Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit [was] in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm."
Daniel found favor with the king, and the king was about to make Daniel the only one over all the kingdoms. This was sure to cause jealousy.
We must remember that the spirit in Daniel was of God. All of his answers to problems were right, because they came from God. It is no wonder the king wanted to set him above all the rest.
At this point in his life, Daniel was over 80. He had enjoyed God's blessing throughout his life.
Daniel was a favorite of the king. He had experience, wisdom, a sense of history, leadership, a good reputation, ability, attitude and revelation from the God of heaven. Apparently, God wanted him in the place of influence to encourage and assist in the Jews' return to Judah, since the return was made in Cyrus' first year, right before the lions den incident.
From the record (of Ezra 1 and 6), all the basic elements of the return appear:
(1) The temple was to be rebuilt with the cost paid from Cyrus' treasury;
(2) All Jews who visited could return, and those who stayed were urged to assist financially; and
(3) The gold and silver vessels stolen from the temple by Nebuchadnezzar were to be taken back.
To account for such favor toward the Jews, it is easy to think of Daniel not only influencing Cyrus to write such a decree, but even formulating it for him.
Daniel 6:4 "Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he [was] faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him."
It appears, the jealousy of the others set them against Daniel. They tried every way they could to find fault with Daniel, that they might report it to Darius. Daniel had been a faithful servant of king Darius. They could find no fault with his work, or his loyalty to the king. They plotted together to try to get Daniel in trouble.
This plot was not unlike the effort against Daniels's 3 friends (in 3:8), and was also similar to that by Joseph's brothers (in Gen 37:18-24).
Daniel 6:5 "Then said these men, We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find [it] against him concerning the law of his God."
Everyone who knew Daniel knew that he was more loyal to his God than to anyone, or anything else. They decided to trap him, by finding fault with his worship of God.
Daniel 6:6 "Then these presidents and princes assembled together to the king, and said thus unto him, King Darius, live for ever."
Notice, they began by flattering the king. They really did not care whether he lived or not, unless it would help them get their way.
Daniel 6:7 "All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions."
The king was proud of his accomplishments, and he thought it nothing but right for his subjects to consult him first. He loved Daniel, and had no idea these presidents and princes were conspiring against Daniel. Notice, in this petition to the king, they appealed to the vanity of the king.
A deceptive stroke of the king's ego secured his injunction, which was designed to benefit Daniels peers. Ancient kings were frequently worshiped as gods. Pagans had such inferior views of their gods that such homage was no problem.
The customs of heathen people, many times, will not be the same as Godly men. These presidents and princes were aware of Daniel's loyalty to his God. They knew this was the only way to trap him. Notice also, these evil men set the punishment. They thought they would be rid of Daniel.
Daniel 6:8 "Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not."
Once enacted, Medo-Persian law could not be changed, even by the king.
Advice from worldly people can cause much harm. A king should be more careful who he takes council from. Their flattery is what caused the king to listen to them. They remind him that once he has signed this paper, there will be no turning back. The law of the Medes and Persians was carried out when it was signed.
Daniel 6:9 "Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the decree."
Their persuasion was so great, he just signed the paper.
Daniel 6:10 "Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime."
One thing we must quickly see here, the law of God is above the laws of any land. If the law of the land puts you in a position of sinning against God, you disobey the law of the land and keep God's law. That is the only reason to disobey the law of the land.
Daniel's uncompromising pattern of prayer toward God's temple conformed to Solomon's prayer that the Lord's people would do so. Three times a day was also the pattern established by David (in Psalm 55:16-17).
We must be like Daniel, and do right at all cost. He was willing to suffer whatever consequence came. He must worship God. Daniel did not hide.
He prayed 3 times a day. How many times have you prayed today? Look, also, at the humbleness of Daniel. He bowed on his knees, before his God. By opening the window toward Jerusalem, he was saying, his loyalty was to the God of Israel.
Daniel 6:11 "Then these men assembled, and found Daniel praying and making supplication before his God."
They knew he would, so they just waited to catch him praying.
Supplication is another way of asking for favor, or asking God to have mercy.
Daniel 6:12 "Then they came near, and spake before the king concerning the king's decree; Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall ask [a petition] of any God or man within thirty days, save of thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions? The king answered and said, The thing [is] true, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not."
This had been the purpose of the decree in the first place. They wanted to get rid of Daniel. They are the same thing as a tale-bearer. Children would call them a tattle-tale.
Daniel 6:13 "Then answered they and said before the king, That Daniel, which [is] of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day."
The king would not have accepted this accusation, if it had been from one person. Several came as witness to this thing Daniel had done. They cleverly put in the fact that Daniel was with the captives of Judah, as if that made him a lesser person.
Probably, they used that to say his loyalty lay elsewhere. They are accusing Daniel of ignoring the decree of the king. Not once, but three times a day when he prayed.
At this point, Daniel had lived over 60 years in Babylon. His loyalty to the rulers was well known; in spite of that loyalty, his consistent faithfulness to God brought this threat.
Daniel 6:14 "Then the king, when he heard [these] words, was sore displeased with himself, and set [his] heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he labored till the going down of the sun to deliver him."
King Darius loved Daniel. He tried to find some way that he could get out of throwing Daniel into the lion's den. Now, the king knew he had been trapped into signing this decree. He had gone from a self styled god to a fool in one day.
He was angry with himself for signing this into law. He did not immediately do this terrible thing. His hope was there would be some way out of this. Quick decisions get us all in trouble from time to time.
Daniel 6:15 "Then these men assembled unto the king, and said unto the king, Know, O king, that the law of the Medes and Persians [is], That no decree nor statute which the king establisheth may be changed."
These evil, jealous men come to the king again, and tell him he has to carry out the law he has signed. He has no choice. He needed no reminding, but they did anyhow.
Daniel 6:16 "Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast [him] into the den of lions. [Now] the king spake and said unto Daniel, Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee."
It is interesting that Darius, the Mede, would tell Daniel that Daniel's God would save him. I believe this was almost like a prayer the king prayed. He did not want to harm Daniel. He was trapped. The king threw Daniel into the lion's den.
The word "den" is related to the Hebrew term meaning "to dig," so it refers to an underground pit which likely had:
(1) a hole at the top from which to drop food into the pit, and
(2) a door at the foot of a ramp or on a hillside through which the lions could enter.
Daniel 6:17 "And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords; that the purpose might not be changed concerning Daniel."
The king's signet was pressed into wax to show his seal. This signet was usually on a ring. We can see a type of the Lord Jesus, when they put the stone on the tomb, here. Daniel is in the den of lions. There is seemingly no way out.
Daniel 6:18 "Then the king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting: neither were instruments of music brought before him: and his sleep went from him."
We see a very troubled king. His thoughtless act of signing this decree has brought this terrible thing about.
He was so troubled, he fasted. Kings usually had fine food and drink at their disposal. This night, Darius wanted none of this. He did not listen to the soft music to put him to sleep, as he usually did. He did not sleep, in fact. He wanted Daniel's God to save Daniel.
Daniel 6:19 "Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions."
We see again, an example of very early in the morning. The women went to the tomb of Jesus very early in the morning. Darius must go and see for himself.
Daniel 6:20 "And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: [and] the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?"
Darius believed that Daniel's God could save him, but in the physical he knew it would be impossible. He reminds me of the man who came to Jesus to heal his boy. He said, I believe, but help thou mine unbelief.
This is the way Darius is here. He wants to believe, but it is hard to believe under these circumstances. He cries out to Daniel, hoping Daniel will answer. Darius reaffirms his belief in Daniel's God.
Daniel 6:21 "Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever."
This had to be the sweetest sound Darius had ever heard. Daniel was not angry with Darius.
Daniel 6:22 "My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt."
Daniel was not guilty of sin against God, or against Darius. God sent His angel to help Daniel. As a side note, this may have been the same angel as the fourth person in the fiery finance.
Think about this scripture carefully. How many of us would not have been angry at this king for what he did. For us, it could be someone who had done something to hurt us or to cause us pain by what they said.
But Daniel was not guilty of either. He did not sin against God nor did he sin against the person who had done this to him. How many of us can say that as we through every day's problems?
I have said this so many times before, but we must take note here again. God did not save Daniel from the lion's den. He saved him in the lion's den. God will not remove all trouble from you either, but He will be there to help you through those problems.
Daniel 6:23 "Then was the king exceeding glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God."
The most important statement in the verse above is why Daniel was not hurt. He believed in his God. Faith in God saved Daniel from the mouth of the lion. The greatest trials of life require the greatest faith in God.
The king's joy was overwhelming. His faith was helped on this day, as well. He has them release Daniel from the den. God protected Daniel in the lion's den.
God openly honored Daniel's faith for the purpose of showing His glory. That is not always the case, as God may choose to be glorified by permitting a trusted servant to be martyred with others, as were the faithful servants (in Hebrews 11:33-38).
Daniel 6:24 "And the king commanded, and they brought those men which had accused Daniel, and they cast [them] into the den of lions, them, their children, and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and brake all their bones in pieces or ever they came at the bottom of the den."
This is a sad scene for those who accused Daniel. They were eaten of the lions, even before their bodies hit the ground in the den. Their families were destroyed also. This seems cruel, but perhaps it was so this would never happen in their families again.
They had spoken their own punishment on Daniel. The king just gave them the same opportunity as Daniel. They had no God to call on, and they were eaten. Those who accused Daniel unjustly have brought about their own ruin.
Like the sin of Achan (in Joshua 7:20-26), this sin against God, Darius, and Daniel and had cost the men and their families their lives. This judgment of God was also an important detail in the miracle, lest some critic suggest the lions were tame or toothless or not hungry.
Daniel 6:25 "Then king Darius wrote unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you."
This had a tremendous effect on Darius. Now, we see that he wants peace with all the people of the earth.
Daniel 6:26 "I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: for he [is] the living God, and steadfast for ever, and his kingdom [that] which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion [shall be even] unto the end."
This is the statement of peace that Darius sent to all the people. This is a statement that Daniel's God is God. Belief in God cannot be legislated, but that is what Darius wants here. He believes, and he wants all of his subjects to believe in the one true God.
He probably, does not know Him personally, so he speaks of Him as Daniel's God. Darius has fulfilled the Scripture (in Romans chapter 10).
Romans 10:9. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."
Impacted by Daniel and by the Lord, he expressed himself as if he had come to a point of personal trust in God for his salvation such as Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel illustrated the evangelistic potency of a godly, uncompromising life.
He has believed in his heart, and confessed with his mouth the God of Daniel. He is aware that this is the Eternal God.
Daniel 6:27 "He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions."
Darius is very impressed with Daniel's God, because He did the seemingly impossible, by saving Daniel from the lions.
Psalms 46:1 "God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
Daniel 6:28 "So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian."
Something intended for bad had turned into something really great. Darius elevated Daniel to the very highest position next to himself. Daniel prospered greatly under his rule.
It appears that Cyrus saw great potential in Daniel as well. Daniel prospered in his reign too. You remember the Medes and the Persians were the conquerors here.
Daniel 6 Chapter Questions
1. How many princes did Darius set over the kingdom?
2. How many presidents did he set up?
3. Which of these categories did Daniel fit into?
4. What was unusual about Daniel receiving this honor?
5. Why was Daniel preferred above them all?
6. What set the others against Daniel?
7. What did they try to do, to no avail?
8. They decided the only way to find anything against Daniel was how?
9. How did these evil men approach the king?
10. What decree did they ask the king for?
11. They appealed to the _________ of the king to get him to listen.
12. The law of the _________ and _________ would be carried out once it was signed.
13. The law of _______ is above the _______ of the land.
14. How often did Daniel pray?
15. Did he hide to pray?
16. What showed Daniel's humbleness before God?
17. What is "supplication" in verse 11?
18. What was the punishment to be for one who broke the decree?
19. Who was Darius displeased with, when he heard what Daniel did?
20. What did Darius do to Daniel?
21. What statement of faith did Darius give in front of Daniel?
22. Why could the king just not punish Daniel?
23. How did they make sure Daniel could not get out of the lion's den?
24. What did the king do the night of Daniel's imprisonment in the lion's den?
25. What did the king do very early the next morning?
26. How did Daniel answer Darius?
27. Why was Daniel safe?
28. What happened to Daniel's accusers?
29. What was the decree that Darius made to all people under his rule?
30. What happened to Daniel?
31. Who was the other ruler, besides Darius, that accepted Daniel?
Daniel 7:1 "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."
We see this is dated at the beginning of the reign of Belshazzar, but it is not the dream of Belshazzar. This is Daniel's own dream and visions. This is written down of Daniel.
This first year represents a flashback (to 533 B.C.), 14 years before the feast (of 5:1-3).
(Chapters 7 and 8 occur after chapter 4, but before chapter 5). The dream of Daniel 7 moves far beyond Daniel's day to the coming of Israel's king to end all Gentile kingdoms and to establish His eternal kingdom.
Daniel 7:2 "Daniel spake and said, I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove upon the great sea."
In this dream, or vision, of Daniel's, he saw the wind coming from 4 directions at once. This would create a tornado, or something very similar to that.
Here the great sea is speaking nations and the people of the earth.
The number 4 is speaking of universal. This is has to do with the entire human race. This just means there was a great turmoil going on upon the earth.
Daniel 7:3 "And four great beasts came up from the sea, diverse one from another."
These 4 beasts are possibly, the kingdoms of the image (in chapter 2 of Daniel). Those were the kingdoms of Babylon, Medes-Persia, Greeks and Romans. Notice, these 4 beasts came up out of the people (sea). Each one of them was very different.
As four has to do with the universe, this is universal then. These beasts are nations, or kingdoms. My personal belief of this writer is that these are speaking of these same nations that were in the image, but at a much later time, perhaps nearer our own time.
Daniel 7:4 "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."
This first beast like a lion with eagle wings is speaking of Babylon and its most famous king, Nebuchadnezzar. The eagle's wings, many times, symbolize aggressiveness. (the swiftness of its victories). The Babylonians had been very fierce in their conquests.
They had settled down, and become a more civilized nation. This could be the meaning of the wings being plucked.
"Stand upon the feet as a man": represents the humanitarian character of Nebuchadnezzar in his later years. They became more like a man, when their viciousness was gone.
Some of the kings even recognized God for His mighty feats. I would believe the heart of a man would mean that it was possible to reach it. Daniel's own protection from the lions could have helped change their heart to the heart of a man.
I would tend to set these 4 beast's operation at the end of the Gentile age. Babylon then is Iraq now, the same country.
Daniel 7:5 "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."
In the image, this would be the Media Persian Empire with the greater side being Persia. Persia then is Iran now, is the very same place. The bear symbolizes Russia. The ribs are referring to vanquished nations.
We read in Ezekiel:
Ezekiel 38:5 "Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya with them; all of them with shield and helmet:"
We know that there is to be a great battle, when these 4 forces (Russia, Persia (Iran), Ethiopia, and Libya), shall come against Israel. There will be the destruction of much flesh. Could Iran, Ethiopia, and Libya be the three spoken of above?
Daniel 7:6 "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."
The leopard depicts Greece. Though naturally a swift animal, this leopard had four wings in addition to its native agility. Most people believe this is Alexander the Great spoken of here. This speaks of the lighting speed with which Alexander the Great (336-323 B.C.), conquered the ancient world. The number four represents the four generals who divided up Alexander's kingdom after his death at the age of 33. They ruled Macedonia, Asia Minor, Syria, and Egypt.
Daniel 7:7 "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."
The fourth beast is not given a name and therefore must have had the character of an unknown hideous monster. It foreshadows the Roman Empire. The ten horns are 10 kings (verse 24), and the little horn (verse 8), is another king who will arise after the 10 and be coexistent with them. The 10 kingdoms represented by the 10 horns may be the nation that will grow out of the old Roman Empire, or they may be 10 future kings who will rule over some form of a revived Roman Empire.
The Roman Empire has been reconstructed in our day with the common market nations. I believe the ten horns could be the nations which make up the common market. The horn speaks of power. This is a powerful organization headquartered in Rome.
Daniel 7:8 "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."
The membership in this common market is changing daily. This speaks of a spokesman, who speaks for the entire group. Eyes speak of wisdom. This wisdom is of a man. His mouth speaking great things indicate he is in control, and speaks for the whole group.
The identification of the 10 horns and little horn has generated much discussion. The little horn represents the Antichrist. The parallels between this fourth beast and the beast (in Revelation 13), are unavoidable. The description of the beast (i.e. the Antichrist), in that passage gives a fore view of the work of the Antichrist in the Tribulation period and states that he will emerge from the remnants or revival, of the Roman Empire.
This beast is human ("eyes like the eyes of man" and a "mouth uttering"), and is proud (read Revelation 13:5-6).
Daniel 7:9 "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."
This is dating this vision. There is a time coming, when the thrones will be thrown down. Daniel's vision flashes forward to the divine throne from which judgment will come on the fourth kingdom.
"Ancient of days" is speaking of Eternal God. The "white as snow" speaks of the righteousness of God and is a picture of His holiness. Our God is a consuming Fire.
This fire is speaking of the presence of God. We read of the wheel (in Ezekiel chapter 1). This wheel and the fire in it, both are the presence of God. This throne of fire is God's throne.
Daniel 7:10 "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."
The numbers multiplied out here are a million, or one hundred million. This could be the angels who minister unto God.
This, however, is speaking of a number so great it is impossible to count. God keeps a record in heaven and that is what is spoken of by the books were opened.
Daniel 7:11 "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."
"The beast was slain" is a reference to the fourth beast (i.e. the Roman sphere), headed up by the "little horn" or Antichrist. He will be destroyed at Christ's second coming.
The above is a companion Scripture to the following.
Revelation 19:20 "And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone."
Daniel 7:12 "As concerning the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away: yet their lives were prolonged for a season and time."
These beasts were speaking of Babylon (Iraq), Persia (Iran), and Greece. They were no longer ruling powers as they had been represented in their place in the image. The kingdoms of this world have fallen. They were not totally destroyed, but lost all power.
These earlier beasts each successively lost its chief dominance when it was conquered in history. Yet each was amalgamated into the empire that gained ascendance, and survived in its descendants. As the Second Advent draws near, all 3 empires in their descendants will be a part of the Roman phase in its final form.
Survival will not be possible for the final and revived phase of the fourth empire after Christ's second coming, for catastrophic devastation will utterly destroy it, and Christ's kingdom will replace it.
Daniel 7:13 "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."
This Son of man is the One we call Jesus "the Messiah". This is the same that we read about as the Stone which destroyed the image. The "clouds of heaven" are seen again (in Revelation 1:7). Here He is distinct from the Ancient of Days, or Eternal One, the Father, who will coronate Him for the kingdom (2:44). The picture of old age is not that of being feeble, rather it highlights eternality and divine wisdom to judge.
Matthew 24:30 "And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory."
Daniel 7:14 "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."
These distinctions are earthly and speak of the promise of an earthly kingdom, ruled by Christ that merges into the eternal kingdom.
Isaiah 9:7 "Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this."
Philippians 2:9-11 "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:" "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth;" "And [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
There is no question at all, that this is the One we call Jesus who will be King of kings and Lord of lords. He is Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End.
1 Timothy 1:17 "Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, [be] honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen."
The commencement of Christ's everlasting dominion will take place at His second coming.
Daniel 7:15 "I Daniel was grieved in my spirit in the midst of [my] body, and the visions of my head troubled me."
We could surely understand this, because his vision had jumped over 2000 years. Visions and dreams are seldom dated. Possibly, Daniel was concerned that he might be losing touch with reality.
Coming judgment made him sad, because it meant that history all the way to its end would be a story of sin and judgment.
Daniel 7:16 "I came near unto one of them that stood by, and asked him the truth of all this. So he told me, and made me know the interpretation of the things."
This is still part of the vision, or dream. One that stood by was an angel. Angels helped Daniel understand God's revelation.
The interpretation was given to Daniel.
Daniel 7:17 "These great beasts, which are four, [are] four kings, [which] shall arise out of the earth."
These empires depicted by the lion, bear, leopard, and bizarre animal are Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece and Rome. The kings are the most notable leaders over these empires, such as Nebuchadnezzar, Cyrus, Alexander the Great and finally the "little horn" (Antichrist).
Daniel 7:18 "But the saints of the most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever."
The "Most High": God is referred to in this book as above all gods, as He was for Melchizedek and Abraham as well as Naaman.
The "saints" are those who trusted God and possess the kingdom headed up by the Son of Man, the Messiah. All serve Him (in verses 14 and 27); verse 27 clarifying that the one served is actually God the most High. Just as the 4 Gentile empires have individuals as kings, so the final kingdom has Christ as King.
The following is a companion Scripture.
Revelation 2:26 "And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:"
It is the spoken and the written Word of God which overcomes the world. The saint's weapon is the two-edged Sword.
Revelation 11:15 "And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become [the kingdoms] of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever."
You can see from the following Scripture, just how long we reign with Him.
Revelation 22:5 "And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever."
Daniel 7:19 "Then I would know the truth of the fourth beast, which was diverse from all the others, exceeding dreadful, whose teeth [were of] iron, and his nails [of] brass; [which] devoured, brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet;"
"Fourth beast ... diverse": This may refer to the Empire's far greater diversity than previous empires, and its breath of conquest. It branches out into two great divisions (legs), then near the end into 10 horns (a confederacy of 10 nations), and even an 11th horn (Antichrist's kingdom), lasting until Christ's second coming.
"Iron" speaks of strength, and "brass" speaks of judgment. They had even judged the Son of God. The Romans were in power, when Jesus was crucified. They were strong in their rule of all the people.
Daniel 7:20 "And of the ten horns that [were] in his head, and [of] the other which came up, and before whom three fell; even [of] that horn that had eyes, and a mouth that spake very great things, whose look [was] more stout than his fellows."
This one who had eyes (worldly wisdom), and a mouth that he spoke for all the horns, is speaking of the antichrist.
He is the other horn or the 11th horn (ruler and his realm), and is small and less powerful before its big rise. Early in the future tribulation period, it (he), grows to be "larger" or more powerful than any of the horns (rulers), in the group.
Daniel 7:21 "I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them;"
The Antichrist will lead a great persecution of believers, especially in Israel.
Revelation 13:5 "And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty [and] two months."
The saints are the believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. The antichrist will be in power for 3 and 1/2 years, and he is opposed to everything they do.
Revelation 13:7 "And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations."
Daniel 7:22 "Until the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom."
"Ancient of days" refers to God the Eternal One, who confers the messianic kingdom on the Son to rule at His second coming and following. Judgment is against the Antichrist and Satan who empower him, plus the unsaved who are not allowed into the kingdom at its outset, but are destroyed and await the final, Great White Throne resurrection and judgment.
1 Corinthians 6:2-3 "Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters?" "Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?"
Luke 17:21 "Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you."
Daniel 7:23 "Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces."
Again, this is speaking of the Old Roman Empire, which has been revived. This power is really control and it will take over control of the entire world.
Daniel 7:24 "And the ten horns out of this kingdom [are] ten kings [that] shall arise: and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings."
Daniel makes it plain that these ten kings will "arise" before the Antichrist makes his own rise to power. Three of them will not like his rapid ascent and will try to resist him, but they will quickly be defeated; Daniel says they will be "plucked out by the roots", (Dan. 7:8), "fall", and be "subdued" by the Antichrist.
I believe the ten horns are actually ten nations, which have made an alliance. They altogether make up the Roman Empire. The one is separate from the ten. The one is representing the antichrist that will rise to the zenith of world rule.
It is interesting to note at this time, that the antichrist system is made up of the antichrist, the false prophet, and the beast.
Daniel 7:25 "And he shall speak [great] words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time."
The antichrist has great power over all the peoples of the earth. The people of the earth will not recognize him as the antichrist, until he begins to blaspheme the Most High God. He will seem to have the answer for all the problems of life.
Notice, in this, the saints are under his jurisdiction for 3 and 1/2 years. That's what the "time, times, and dividing or half a time means.
During the first part of his reign, the antichrist will pretend to be a great peacemaker. He will control the people through his power to purchase goods. It is interesting that a new international currency has now been made, and these common market nations will all use it. There will come a time when no currency will be necessary.
Revelation 13:16-17 "And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:" "And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name."
Read our study on the 13th chapter of Revelation to get more insight into this. This changing of time shows he wants to be as God. There have been men throughout ages that have wanted to be as God. Julius Caesar would have been one, Hitler would have been another. This is not speaking of a type of antichrist, but the antichrist. He is a personification of Satan himself.
Daniel 7:26 "But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy [it] unto the end."
The judgment is taken away from him by our King Jesus, and by His saints. He has been judged, and found guilty. God will remove the Antichrist's rule and destroy him and his empire in eternal, conscious hell.
Daniel 7:27 "And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him."
"The kingdom", "given to", "the saints": God's kingdom in both earthly (Rev. 20:4), and heavenly phases (Rev. 21:27; 22:3-4 and 14).
Hebrews 12:28 "Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:"
Revelation 20:6 "Blessed and holy [is] he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years."
Daniel 7:28 "Hitherto [is] the end of the matter. As for me Daniel, my cogitations much troubled me, and my countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart."
The details of this vision, or dream, of Daniel's would trouble anyone. He saw the rise and fall of the antichrist. Cogitations means thoughts. Deep thought does change our facial expression. He remembered it in his heart. More dreams and visions will make even these more understandable.
Daniel Chapter 7 Questions
1. When did Daniel have this dream, or vision?
2. What were these 4 winds like?
3. What does the number 4 mean?
4. What does this mean?
5. Who are these 4 beasts very similar to?
6. Where did they come from?
7. Who does the first beast symbolize?
8. What was the meaning of the wings being plucked?
9. What had helped change the hearts of the Babylonians?
10. Babylon and ________ is the same.
11. This second beast was like unto a ________.
12. Persia, and modern _______ is the same.
13. Who is the leopard representing?
14. Who do many scholars believe this is speaking of?
15. Who is the fourth beast speaking of?
16. Who are the ten horns?
17. Who is verse 8 speaking of?
18. Who is the "Ancient of days"?
19. What does "white as snow" tell us?
20. The wheel, and the fire in it, are both speaking of the presence of _______.
21. What is a companion Scripture of Daniel 7:11?
22. Who came in the clouds of heaven?
23. At the name of _________ every knee will bow.
24. Why was Daniel troubled?
25. Who did Daniel ask of the vision?
26. What two things overcome the world?
27. "Iron" speaks of ________.
28. "Brass" speaks of __________.
29. Who is the one who spoke, and had worldly wisdom?
30. How long did the antichrist rule over the saints?
31. Where is the kingdom of God?
32. Who are the ten horns?
33. Who will the antichrist speak against?
34. The antichrist is a personification of __________ himself.
Daniel 8:1 "In the third year of the reign of king Belshazzar a vision appeared unto me, [even unto] me Daniel, after that which appeared unto me at the first."
This is another vision (it is not the same as the vision in chapter 7). The last vision was of the end times. This vision deals with Media, Persia, and Greece leading up to the end times.
With chapter 8, the text begins again in Hebrew. This is appropriate since the rest of the book is concerned with God's program for Israel. The vision of chapter 8 came two years after that of chapter 7.
Daniel 8:2 "And I saw in a vision; and it came to pass, when I saw, that I [was] at Shushan [in] the palace, which [is] in the province of Elam; and I saw in a vision, and I was by the river of Ulai."
Shushan was a chief city of the Medo-Persian Empire. It was the capitol of the land of Elam. Shushan or Susa was a Persian royal city about two hundred miles east of Babylon where Daniel was at the time.
Elam was named for the first son of Shem. There is very little known about the river Ulai.
Verses 3-9: The imagery of (verses 3-9), is unfolded historically. The ram pictures the Medo-Persian Empire, as a whole, its two horns standing for the two entities (the Medes and the Persians), that merged into one. The history of this empire is briefly noted (in verse 4), as it is seen conquering for the East to the West, South and North under Cyrus, as predicted also by Isaiah 150 years earlier (Isa. 45:1-7).
The longer horn, which appeared last, represents Persia. The goat (verse 5), represents Greece with its great horn Alexander, who with his army of 35,000, moved with such speed that he is pictured as not even touching the ground. The broken horn is Alexander in his death. The 4 horns are generals who became kings over 4 sectors of the Grecian empire after Alexander.
The small horn is Antiochus Epiphanes, who rose from the third empire to rule the Syrian division (in 175-164 B.C.), and is the same king dominant (in 11:21-35; 8:24-26), where a similar "little horn" clearly represents the final Antichrist.
The reason both are described as "little horns" is because one prefigures the other. A far more detailed summary will come later (in 11:2-35).
Daniel 8:3 "Then I lifted up mine eyes, and saw, and, behold, there stood before the river a ram which had [two] horns: and the [two] horns [were] high; but one [was] higher than the other, and the higher came up last."
Verse 20 of this chapter tells us the two horns are the kings of Media and Persia. It appears that Persia was the more prominent of the two. The higher horn portrays the dominance of Persia over Media (as did the raised bear in 7:5).
The fact there was just one animal, shows the unity of Media, and Persia. The two horns show they were of two peoples.
Daniel 8:4 "I saw the ram pushing westward, and northward, and southward; so that no beasts might stand before him, neither [was there any] that could deliver out of his hand; but he did according to his will, and became great."
We do know from history, there was a great conquest of nations who surrounded them. They were so powerful they had conquered even the Babylonians.
Daniel 8:5 "And as I was considering, behold, a he goat came from the west on the face of the whole earth, and touched not the ground: and the goat [had] a notable horn between his eyes."
This is speaking of Greece, and the horn (symbolizing power) is speaking of Alexander the great.
The fact that the goat's feet did not touch the ground symbolizes the swiftness of Alexander's conquest, as did the wings on the leopard in the previous chapter.
Daniel 8:6 "And he came to the ram that had [two] horns, which I had seen standing before the river, and ran unto him in the fury of his power."
This is just explaining that Alexander the great fought against the Medes and the Persians.
Daniel 8:7 "And I saw him come close unto the ram, and he was moved with choler against him, and smote the ram, and brake his two horns: and there was no power in the ram to stand before him, but he cast him down to the ground, and stamped upon him: and there was none that could deliver the ram out of his hand."
This powerful ruler (Alexander the Great), fought with the Medes and Persians, and defeated them in battle. "Choler" means bitter. The Medes and the Persians were no match for Alexander.
In a series of battles over the period (of 334-330 B.C.), Alexander the Great decisively destroyed Persian power and became the master of the ancient Near Eastern World.
Daniel 8:8 "Therefore the he goat waxed very great: and when he was strong, the great horn was broken; and for it came up four notable ones toward the four winds of heaven."
Alexander was thought of as great. When he died, 4 of his generals took over in his place.
Four notable ones (or horns), refer to the four generals who by (301 B.C.), ruled Alexander's empire (verse 22). Macedonia and most of Greece were under the rule of Cassander; Asia Minor and parts of Thrace were under the rule of Lysimachus; Syria, Israel and Mesopotamia were ruled by Seleucus; and Egypt and parts of southern Syria were under Ptolemy.
Daniel 8:9 "And out of one of them came forth a little horn, which waxed exceeding great, toward the south, and toward the east, and toward the pleasant [land]."
A little horn came out of one of the four horns. Most agree that this little horn can only refer to Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid ruler over Syria and Israel (175-163 B.C.), and for a short time over Egypt.
(In 167 B.C.), Antiochus outlawed the Jewish religion, burned Jerusalem, killed multitudes of Jews, and forbade circumcision and other Jewish observances. (On December 16, 167 B.C.), he offered a sow on the altar outside the temple, the ultimate sacrilege to a Jew. This began the period known as the Maccabean revolt.
After three years of fighting, the Jews were able to restore temple worship (in late 164 B.C.). This rededication of the temple is still commemorated today in the eight day Jewish holiday known as Hanukkah. Antiochus's atrocities are accurately predicted (in verses 10-14 and 23-25).
The "pleasant land" was probably Palestine.
Daniel 8:10 "And it waxed great, [even] to the host of heaven; and it cast down [some] of the host and of the stars to the ground, and stamped upon them."
This picturesque language portrays Antiochus' persecution against Jewish people using the figure of stars. When defeated, the "stars" (Jewish people), will fall under the tyrant's domination.
Revelation 6:13 "And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind."
The fig tree symbolizes the house of Israel. The "host of heaven" could be speaking of Israel.
This particular Scripture could have two messages. One would be to the time very near to when Daniel lived, and the other could reach to the end of time.
Daniel 8:11 "Yea, he magnified [himself] even to the prince of the host, and by him the daily [sacrifice] was taken away, and the place of his sanctuary was cast down."
The "Prince of the host" would have been the Lord. (In 70 A.D.), the temple was destroyed and the sacrifice stopped.
In addition to the desecration of the temple, Antiochus blasphemed Christ; to who ultimately the host of Jewish people sacrifice, and to whom the sanctuary belongs. He is later the "Prince of princes (verse 25).
I believe this has to do with the similar Scriptures following.
Daniel 11:31 "And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily [sacrifice], and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate."
Daniel 12:11 "And from the time [that] the daily [sacrifice] shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, [there shall be] a thousand two hundred and ninety days."
These last two Scriptures have to do with the time of the end (Tribulation), and the antichrist.
Daniel 8:12 "And a host was given [him] against the daily [sacrifice] by reason of transgression, and it cast down the truth to the ground; and it practiced, and prospered."
The transgressions would have made the sacrifice unacceptable to God. There was no truth prevailing. They seemed to prosper, even though they were evil.
Daniel 8:13-14 "Then I heard one saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain [saint] which spake, How long [shall be] the vision [concerning] the daily [sacrifice], and the transgression of desolation, to give both the sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot?" "And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed."
Holy ones or angels are in view here.
This is referring to evenings and mornings which the period runs to about 6-1/2 years of sacrificing a lamb twice a day, morning and evening. The prophecy was precise in identifying the time as that of Antiochus' persecution (Sept 6, 171 B.C. to Dec 25 th, 165/164 B.C.).
It is interesting to note that Judas Maccabeus cleansed the temple on December 25th 165 B.C.
After his death, Jews celebrated the cleansing of their holy place in the Feast of Lights, or Hanukkah, in celebration of the restoration led by Judas Maccabeus.
Daniel 8:15 "And it came to pass, when I, [even] I Daniel, had seen the vision, and sought for the meaning, then, behold, there stood before me as the appearance of a man."
Notice, this was not a man. He appeared to be a man. Daniel was seeking an interpretation of this dream, or vision, from God.
The word for man meaning "a mighty man" is the linguistic framework for "Gabriel," which means "mighty one of God." This is the first mention of an angel by name in the Bible.
Daniel 8:16 "And I heard a man's voice between [the banks of] Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this [man] to understand the vision."
The word "Ulai" is speaking of a river in Persia, possibly the Eulaeus. The man's voice was the voice of God who spoke with a human voice. Gabriel is under direct orders of the Father.
Gabriel is an archangel. He is to explain the vision to Daniel.
Daniel 8:17 "So he came near where I stood: and when he came, I was afraid, and fell upon my face: but he said unto me, Understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end [shall be] the vision."
"Time of the end" is a term likely having a double sense of fulfillment. First the "end" (as verse 19), "final" or "latter period" (verses 19 and 23), and "appointed time" (verse 19), refer to time late in the specific span that the historical prophecy has in view. That time is the period defined by the empires in these verses, Persia (Ram), and Greece (Goat), when the Grecian sector will be divided into 4 parts (verse 8).
One of these, the Syrian under Seleucus will eventually lead to Antiochus Epiphanes (175 to 164 B.C.), as the "little horn" meant (in verse 9, which persecutes the people of Israel (verse 10), and defies God (verse 11).
Secondly, the "little horn" (in verse 9, the Antichrist in the last days at the time of the eschatological fulfillment, sees Antiochus as a pattern of the Antichrist, who in many ways will be like him, though far greater in power, and will exercise his career in the end of the age just before Christ's return.
This would be a frightening experience, to be this close to Gabriel. The worst fear would be the fact that God sent him, and told him what to say. He opens Daniel's understanding to the vision.
Daniel 8:18 Now as he was speaking with me, I was in a deep sleep on my face toward the ground: but he touched me, and set me upright.
This is very similar to being overcome by the Spirit. Being in the presence of heavenly beings brings this type of reaction.
At the mount of transfiguration, Peter, James, and John went into a deep sleep. This is a special privilege to be in the presence of heavenly beings.
Daniel 8:19 "And he said, Behold, I will make thee know what shall be in the last end of the indignation: for at the time appointed the end [shall be]."
The time for the end of the world has been set since the foundation of the earth. This is speaking, however, of a nearer time, as well. The end of the indignation could be speaking of the end of the indignation for those specific people.
The near meaning speaks of the Jews struggle against Epiphanes.
Daniel 8:20-21 "The ram which thou sawest having [two] horns [are] the kings of Media and Persia." "And the rough goat [is] the king of Grecia: and the great horn that [is] between his eyes [is] the first king."
These are both discussed earlier in the lesson. The two horns are because Media and Persia are two. The rough goat is Alexander the great of Greece who is the third world power.
Daniel 8:22 "Now that being broken, whereas four stood up for it, four kingdoms shall stand up out of the nation, but not in his power."
"Broken ... four": Alexander died at age 33 (in 323 B.C.), leaving no heir ready to reign. So four men, after 22 years of fighting, assumed rule over 4 Grecian sectors:
(1) Cassander, Macedonia;
(2) Lysimachus, Thrace and Asia Minor;
(3) Seleucus, Syria and Babylonia;
(4) Ptolemy, Egypt and Arabia. These are the four referred to in "toward the four winds" (verse 8).
The phrase "not in his power" indicates they did not have Alexander's power or direct family lineage.
Verses 23-25: "A king ... stand up": The near fulfillment views Antiochus as the historical persecutor (as in verses 9-14). His career down to 164 B.C. was "in the latter period of their rule," that of the male goat in the Syrian territory.
Rome conquered Greece by 146 B.C., only a few years later, and became the next dominant empire. Antiochus died, "broken without human agency," due to insanity and disease of the bowels.
The far fulfillment sees Antiochus (in verses 23-25), as prophetically illustrating the final tribulation period and the Antichrist. In such a view, the king here is also the "little horn" (as in 7:7, 8:9), and the willful king (in 11:36-45).
Daniel 8:23 "And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors are come to the full, a king of fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, shall stand up."
This has jumped to an entirely different time element. Notice, it does not say in their later time, it says in the latter day of their kingdom. It is the kingdom's latter day. This king is evil. He is using things of Satan to make him understand. Dark sentences have no light of God in them.
Daniel 8:24 "And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practice, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people."
His strength is not his own. He is operating under the influence of Satan. He is totally opposed to God's people. God has allowed this, because of the unfaithfulness of His people.
Daniel 8:25 "And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify [himself] in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand."
"He shall also stand up against the Prince of princes": Many believe that the description here transcends that of Antiochus alone, and uses him as a type of the Antichrist who will oppose 'Christ during the Great Tribulation. Certainly, the devious work of Antiochus and of the Antichrist is of the same heinous character.
The Prince of princes is speaking of Jesus. Destroying by peace is a trick of the antichrist. If this is not speaking of him, it is certainly speaking of a type of antichrist. This is speaking of a spiritual battle.
"Broken without hand": Jesus does defeat Satan and all of his fellows.
Daniel 8:26 "And the vision of the evening and the morning which was told [is] true: wherefore shut thou up the vision; for it [shall be] for many days."
Since he told it here, this did not mean to shut it up to secrecy but to preserve it as truth even if not to be fulfilled for a long time.
In upcoming chapters of Daniel, we see where God has told him to shut up the words until the time of the end.
Daniel 12:4 "But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, [even] to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased."
Daniel 12:9 "And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words [are] closed up and sealed till the time of the end."
Daniel 8:27 "And I Daniel fainted, and was sick [certain] days; afterward I rose up, and did the king's business; and I was astonished at the vision, but none understood [it]."
The vision has caused Daniel to be very grieved.
I believe God does not reveal this to man, because it is His secret. There are some things not intended to be understood.
Daniel Chapter 8 Questions
1. Where was Daniel in this vision?
2. Who was Elam named for?
3. How many horns did the ram have?
4. What did they symbolize?
5. Which was the most prominent?
6. The horn symbolizes __________.
7. Who is this horn speaking of?
8. What does "choler" mean?
9. Macedonia and Greece were under which of the 4 Generals?
10. Asia Minor was under whose rule?
11. Who ruled Syria?
12. Cyrene was ruled by __________.
13. What was the "pleasant land" speaking of?
14. Who does the "fig tree" symbolize?
15. Who is the "host of heaven", possibly?
16. Who is the Prince of the host?
17. In _____ A.D., the temple was destroyed and the sacrifice stopped.
18. Daniel 11:31 and Daniel 12:11 have to do with the time of the ____________.
19. What would have made the sacrifices unacceptable to God?
20. How long will the city be trodden down of the Gentiles?
21. What is interesting to note about Judas Maccabaeus?
22. The man's voice in verse 16, was whose?
23. Who had God sent with the message to Daniel?
24. When is this vision for?
25. What does the name "Gabriel" mean?
26. The sleep (in verse 18), is very similar to what?
27. How long has the time for the end of the world been set?
28. Dark sentences have no _______ of ______ in them.
29. Why has God allowed this evil one to destroy?
30. This evil one is operating under the influence of _________.
31. The Prince of princes is speaking of ___________.
32. Destroying by peace is a trick of _____________.
33. What are some of the things the vision of evening and morning could be?
34. Who understood Daniel's vision?
Daniel 9:1 "In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the seed of the Medes, which was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans;"
Darius, the Mede, had been a friend of Daniel, and elevated him to high office in his kingdom. He ruled over Babylon, after Babylon fell to the Medes and Persians.
This may mean that Darius (a title and not a proper name), refers to Cyrus who was made king by God's allowance. Since Cyrus was the first monarch of the Medo-Persian empire, this tie note was also the first year after the death of Belshazzar, when Babylon fell.
Daniel 9:2 "In the first year of his reign I Daniel understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem."
We remember from the study on Jeremiah, that God had revealed to him the Hebrew children would be in captivity about 70 years. Jeremiah had written this down, and it appears that Daniel had read of this. You remember, Daniel was an educated man.
Daniel's study of "the books" focused on the years prophesied for the captivity by Jeremiah in Jerusalem. Since the end of the span was near, he prayed for God's next move on behalf of Israel, where it is indicated that the 70 years of exile were intended to restore the Sabbath rests that Israel had ignored for so many years.
The chronological notice in this verse is important. The event in the chapter occurred (in 539 B.C.), the year that Darius the Mede assumed the rulership of Babylon. This momentous change of power provoked Daniel to search the Scriptures to determine the prophetic significance, if any, of the capture of Babylon by the Persians. By searching the prophet Jeremiah, Daniel realized that Jeremiah had prophesied that the captivity of the Jews would last 70 years. That period was almost over. (Verses 4-19) are, in essence, a prayer of confession and petition: confession of the nation's sin and petition for God to fulfill His Word.
Daniel 9:3 "And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes:"
Daniel was a very humble man, who knew his true wisdom came as a gift from God. The fasting, sackcloth, and ashes, tell us of the seriousness of Daniel's prayer. He was reaching out to God with a humble spirit, knowing that all truth comes from God.
Verses 4-19: "I prayed": Various aspects of the passage give rich instruction regarding prayer. True prayer is: in response to the Word (verse 2), characterized by fervency and self denial (verse 3); identified unselfishly with God's people (verse 5), strengthened by confession (verses 5-15); dependent on God's character (verses 4, 7, 9, and 15); and has as its goal, God's glory (verses 16-19).
Daniel 9:4 "And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments;"
Daniel began his prayer by telling God he was aware of His greatness. This is very similar to the way Jesus taught the disciples to pray. "Our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name". In both instances, recognition of God and His power came first. He knows God does not break covenant with man. Man breaks covenant with God. Jesus said, "If ye love me, keep my commandments". Daniel has kept God's commandments.
Daniel 9:5 "We have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments:"
Four times in the chapter (verses 5, 8, 11, 15), Daniel acknowledges the people's sin. Daniel includes himself in the confession of his fellow Hebrews. He admits guilt for their sins first. He knows that sins of omission are sin, as well as sins of commission. As with all great leaders he identifies himself with his people.
Recognizing the fact that we have sinned, comes even before repenting of that sin to God. This is what Daniel is doing for all of the Hebrews.
Daniel 9:6 "Neither have we hearkened unto thy servants the prophets, which spake in thy name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land."
God had sent prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah to warn them, but they had not heeded the warning. They had actually chosen to believe the false prophets over the prophets of God. They could have repented before all of the problems arose, but they did not.
Daniel 9:7 "O Lord, righteousness [belongeth] unto thee, but unto us confusion of faces, as at this day; to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and unto all Israel, [that are] near, and [that are] far off, through all the countries whither thou hast driven them, because of their trespass that they have trespassed against thee."
Israel had committed spiritual adultery, by worshipping the false gods of the heathen people around them. God is holy. Israel was driven out of their homeland, because they trespassed greatly against their God. Their "confusion of face" meant they did not know what to believe anymore.
Daniel 9:8 "O Lord, to us [belongeth] confusion of face, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against thee."
Their loyalty was to no god. They wanted to worship God, but all at the same time they worshipped false gods. Their confusion was obvious to everyone, but themselves.
Romans 6:21 "What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things [is] death."
Daniel 9:9 "To the Lord our God [belong] mercies and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against him;"
God's people rebelled and rebelled, but God is merciful. He never let them all be destroyed. He forgave them, and started them all over again.
Psalms 130:7 "Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD [there is] mercy, and with him [is] plenteous redemption."
Micah 7:18 "Who [is] a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth [in] mercy."
Daniel 9:10 "Neither have we obeyed the voice of the LORD our God, to walk in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets."
One thing that set the Hebrews aside as being different is they had the law of God. God had promised to bless them mightily, if they kept His law. If they did not keep His law, there would be curses. God had sent prophet after prophet to warn them, they were not keeping His law. Daniel is admitting to God, they had not kept the law.
Daniel 9:11 "Yea, all Israel have transgressed thy law, even by departing, that they might not obey thy voice; therefore the curse is poured upon us, and the oath that [is] written in the law of Moses the servant of God, because we have sinned against him."
This refers to the judgment that God brought, as promised, for Israel's disobedience in the Land (Lev. 26:21-42); dependent on God's character (verses 4, 7, 9, and 15), and has as its goal, God's glory (verses 16-19).
They transgressed the law and followed false gods. Daniel is aware the captivity came to cause them to repent of their sins, and turn back to God. God had given His Word. He had sworn by Himself that He would bless them, if they kept the law, and curse them, if they did not keep the law.
Daniel 9:12 "And he hath confirmed his words, which he spake against us, and against our judges that judged us, by bringing upon us a great evil: for under the whole heaven hath not been done as hath been done upon Jerusalem."
To whom much is given, much is required.
Zechariah 7:12 "Yea, they made their hearts [as] an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law, and the words which the LORD of hosts hath sent in his spirit by the former prophets: therefore came a great wrath from the LORD of hosts."
God does exactly what He says He will do. He gave them ample time and warning to repent, and they did not. They sinned in full knowledge of the law, and God greatly punished them for it.
Daniel 9:13 "As [it is] written in the law of Moses, all this evil is come upon us: yet made we not our prayer before the LORD our God, that we might turn from our iniquities, and understand thy truth."
They brought all the trouble upon themselves. The law was plainly written down, that they might know God's will. They disregarded God's law, and did what was pleasing in their own sight. Daniel is speaking of Israel as a whole, and not individually of himself. He knew that if they had repented in sackcloth and ashes and returned to God, He would have forgiven them.
Daniel 9:14 "Therefore hath the LORD watched upon the evil, and brought it upon us: for the LORD our God [is] righteous in all his works which he doeth: for we obeyed not his voice."
God is loving, kind, forgiving, and merciful; but He is also the Righteous Judge. He cannot, and will not, overlook their unfaithfulness to Him. They were not obedient to God, and their punishment is justified.
Verses 9:15-19: After praying his confession (in verses 4-14), Daniel offers a petition. He prayed, negatively for God's wrath against His people to be assuaged and positively, for God's grace, mercy and forgiveness to be displayed in the people's restoration to their land (verses 17-19).
Daniel 9:15 "And now, O Lord our God, that hast brought thy people forth out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and hast gotten thee renown, as at this day; we have sinned, we have done wickedly."
We must remember from the lessons in some of the other prophetic books that even the heathen, who were fighting them, knew their problems were a judgment of God upon them. When God delivered almost 3 million of them from Pharaoh of Egypt, all the countries around knew it was God. They were God's chosen people. Their sins have gotten them in this situation they are now in.
Daniel 9:16 "O Lord, according to all thy righteousness, I beseech thee, let thine anger and thy fury be turned away from thy city Jerusalem, thy holy mountain: because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and thy people [are become] a reproach to all [that are] about us."
Daniel is pleading for Jerusalem and all of God's people. Where they had been highly respected, because of their God before, now they are ridiculed. Daniel says that even Jerusalem is falling to some ridicule. Notice, Daniel asks forgiveness according to God's righteousness, not the people's righteousness. Daniel knows when God stops being angry with them, He will turn and bless them.
Daniel prayed for restoration in 3 aspects. In effect, he asked God to bring back "(Thy city" (verses 16 and 18), "Thy sanctuary that is desolate (verse 17), and "our people" (verse 19). God's answer embraced all three (verse 24).
Daniel 9:17 "Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord's sake."
The sanctuary in Jerusalem had been a place where all the believers in the world had looked to. Daniel himself, opened his window toward Jerusalem, when he prayed. Notice, Daniel calls himself, servant of God. The beautiful part of this prayer is the reason: "for the Lord's sake".
Daniel 9:18 "O my God, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which is called by thy name: for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousnesses, but for thy great mercies."
No one, then or now, wants to be judged by his own righteousness. We do not want justice, we want mercy. Daniel appeals to the mercy of God towards His people and His city. Daniel cries out, "O my God". Whatever the answer, God is still Daniel's God.
Daniel 9:19 "O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for thine own sake, O my God: for thy city and thy people are called by thy name."
Daniel intercedes in prayer to God with all the strength he has. Look at the progression of the prayer. Hear, forgive, hearken and do, don't put it off, is his request. He knows God still loves them, so Daniel says, for thine own sake. All the people of the world associate the Hebrews and Jerusalem with God.
Daniel 9:20-21 "And while I [was] speaking, and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the LORD my God for the holy mountain of my God;" "Yea, while I [was] speaking in prayer, even the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, being caused to fly swiftly, touched me about the time of the evening oblation."
What a wonderful way to know that God has heard your prayer. We do not know how long Daniel prayed, but we do know this prayer was accompanied by fasting and wearing of sackcloth. God heard his prayer, while it was still coming from his mouth. Gabriel is an archangel, who seems to be associated with Father God. He is like the Father's top General. The Father sends messages to the earth by Gabriel.
This angel, called a "man" because he appeared in the form of a man, appeared also (in 8:16).
Daniel 9:22 "And he informed [me], and talked with me, and said, O Daniel, I am now come forth to give thee skill and understanding."
This will be a gift of understanding. His understanding will be far above the natural man's. God will equip Daniel to do the job He has sent him to do.
The answer of God to Daniel's prayer came immediately through the angel Gabriel. Although Daniels's prayer was primarily for God's forgiveness and the restoration of the Jews to their land, his initial concern for God's program for Israel (verse 2) caused the Lord to reveal to him an outline of Israel's future from that point on.
Daniel 9:23 "At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth, and I am come to show [thee]; for thou [art] greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision."
God heard his prayer immediately, and sent Gabriel to him. The commandment that came forth was God commanding Gabriel to bring the message to Daniel. One of the most wonderful things any of us could hear is that we are greatly beloved of God. I am sure this was the greatest thing Daniel could ever hope to hear. Daniel is to carefully consider the vision, and then understand.
Verses 24-26: "Seventy weeks": These are weeks of year, whereas week of days are described in a different way (10:2-3). The time spans from the Persian Artaxerxes' decree to rebuild Jerusalem (ca. 445 B.C.; Neh. 2:1-8), to the Messiah's kingdom. This panorama includes:
(1) 7 weeks or 49 years, possibly closing Nehemiah's career in the rebuilding of Jerusalem as well as the end of the ministry of Malachi and the close of the Old Testament.
(2) Then add 62 weeks or 434 more years for a total of 483 years to the first advent of Messiah. This was fulfilled at the triumphal entry (on 9 Nisan, A.D. 30).
So this particular dispensation, which was among God's secret things in the Old Testament but is a mystery revealed in the New Testament, falls within this gap. The 70 weeks began from the only biblical decree authorizing the rebuilding of Jerusalem and it was. It is dated in the Jewish month of Nissan (445 B.C.). Using a 360 day year (twelve 30 day months; Sir Robert Anderson calculated the end of the 69 th week to fall on Palm Sunday, just before the Lord's crucifixion.
The Messiah will be "cut off", a common reference to death. Then:
(3) The final 7 years (is Tribulation), or 70 th week of the time of Antichrist.
Roman people from whom the Antichrist will come, will "destroy the city" of Jerusalem and its temple (in 70 A.D.).
Just as the events of the first 69 weeks have been literally fulfilled, so will be the events of the final week. The Christian should realize that God is not yet through with Israel. There is still one more week to come.
Daniel 9:24 "Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy."
These seventy weeks is actually four hundred and ninety years. The most Holy who will come is the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus reconciles the Father to fallen man. Jesus fulfills the law, and brings in grace. God not only forgives the sinner, but makes provision for his forgiveness to be lawful. Jesus became the substitute for all of mankind. He reconciles us to the Father with His precious shed blood.
The prophecy of the seventy weeks is crucial for understanding biblical prophecy. Every statement (in verses 24-27), is important and deserves special attention. The first interpretive problem is the meaning of the expression seventy weeks. The word "weeks" is a Hebrew word shabua that can refer to any period of seven: seven days, seven months, seven years, and so on. Only the context indicates what period of seven is intended. There are four good reasons for believing that the "seven" intended here is a period of seven years:
(1) Daniel has just been concerned about years.
(2) It is impossible to fit the events (of verses 24-27), into 490 days or weeks.
(3) In the only other place where Daniel uses the word week, he qualifies it by adding the word days.
(4) Finally, the fact that (verse 27), speaks of a covenant being broken at the half way point of the seventieth seven agrees well with (Daniel 7:25, 12:7 and Revelation 12:14), which speak of three and one half years as one half of a week. In sum (verse 24) declares that God had determined a period of 490 years to accomplish six key activities on behalf of Israel. Each divine act is marked out by an infinitive: to finish the transgression, to make an end of sins, and so on. The first three are negative and the last three are positive.
Daniel 9:25 "Know therefore and understand, [that] from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince [shall be] seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times."
The temple was 49 years in the building (7 weeks). From Nehemiah building the temple till the coming of Messiah is 434 years (62 weeks). These were very troublesome times. Nehemiah and Ezra both, were involved in the reconstruction of the temple.
The commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem is said to be the point of commencement for the 490 year period. At least four decrees mentioned in Scripture have been set forth by various scholars as the fulfillment of this prophecy: the decree of Cyrus (in 539 B.C.; 2 Chr. 36:22-23; Ezra 1:1-4); the decree of Darius I (in 519/518 B.C.; Ezra 6:1, 6-12); the decree of Artaxerxes I to Ezra (in 457 B.C.; Ezra 7:11-26); and the decree of Artaxerxes to Nehemiah (in 444 B.C.; Neh. 2:1-8).
Only the last decree however, could have fulfilled this statement, since it was the only one of the four that specifically concerned the rebuilding of the city. Cyrus's decree was for the purpose of rebuilding the temple. Darius's decree simply confirmed the intent of Cyrus's earlier decree.
Artaxerxes' decree to Ezra was concerned only with the return of additional exiles and with the beautification of the temple. Only Artaxerxes' decree to Nehemiah refers directly to the restoration of the city.
According to (Nehemiah 2:1-8); this decree was given in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes (in the month Nisan, or March-April, 444 B.C.). From this date to the Messiah will transpire a period of seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks, or 483 years (see the note on verse 24 for the explanation of the week as seven years).
The reason the first 69 "weeks" are subdivided into two periods of seven and 62 is uncertain, but clearly these 69 weeks run consecutively with no gap between them.
Daniel 9:26 "And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof [shall be] with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined."
"And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off": This phrase assumes that the first seven weeks have already transpired and thus serves to summarize the passing of 69 weeks of years or 483 years.
This does not mean that Jesus was cut off immediately after the 434 years. It just means that after that time He was cut off. Notice, He was cut off not for Himself. He did it for all who would believe and receive the gift of salvation.
There is a gap of time between the sixty-ninth and seventieth weeks. This is indicated by the statement that the Messiah will be cut off after the 69 weeks. Daniel used a calculation of time based upon prophetical years (360 days), rather than solar years of 365 days. The same calculation is used in the Book of Revelation where "a time, and times, and half a time" (Rev 12:14), equals 1260 days or 42 months. In each case the calculation is based upon 30 day months.
The Messiah's being cut off refers to the crucifixion of Christ (which probably occurred on April 3, 33 A.D.). The sixty-ninth week ended just prior to His crucifixion, probably at His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The time span from Artaxerxes' decree to rebuild the city (in March 444 B.C.), until Christ's crucifixion (in April 33 A.D.), covered 483 prophetical years (173,880 days)
This calculation agrees perfectly with our own solar calendar. Thus, Daniel predicted that 483 prophetic years would lapse from Artaxerxes' decree until the death of the Messiah. The final week of years (Daniel's seventieth week), is left unexplained and is best taken to be the equivalent to the seven years of tribulation that are yet determined for Israel.
The prince that shall come is the little horn (of 7:8), who will emerge from the fourth, or Roman Empire. He is known elsewhere in Scripture as the Antichrist. However, the present verse states that the people of the prince, and not the prince himself, will destroy the city.
This prophecy was fulfilled (in 70 A.D.), when Titus the Roman general, destroyed the city of Jerusalem, killing thousands.
Daniel 9:27 "And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make [it] desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate."
And now we come to the Antichrist. "And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week": The pronoun he here refers to its nearest antecedent, "the prince that shall come," or Antichrist (in verse 26).
The commencement of the future seventieth "week" then occurs when the Antichrist makes a covenant with the Jews for a seven year period. It will evidently be a covenant intended to provide peace for Israel. However, in the middle of this period, the Antichrist will break this covenant and cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, that is, put an end to Jewish worship and set himself up as an object of worship (2 Thess. 2:4; Rev. 13:8).
The statement that "for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate" refers to what Jesus called " the abomination of desolation " (also see Matt. 24:15). It foreshadows the act of sacrilege when the Antichrist ends organized religion and demands that he be worshiped.
This final seventieth week is also known in Scripture as the Tribulation (Matt. 24:21). Revelation (chapters 4-19), is an exposition of what will take place during this period. The seventieth week will end when Christ returns to the earth to establish His kingdom (Rev. 19:11-21).
The Antichrist stops all worship of the one true God at the middle of the 7 years of tribulation (one week). He will appear to bring peace, but he will cause true Christianity to stop. He will set himself up in the temple in Jerusalem to be worshipped the last 3-1/2 years of the tribulation period. The wrath of God will come upon the earth during this period.
Daniel Chapter 9 Questions
1. Where did Darius reign?
2. What kind of relationship did he have with Daniel?
3. What other prophet is mentioned in verse 2?
4. What had Daniel read, that made him know of the 70 years of Babylonian captivity?
5. Daniel was an ___________ man?
6. Where did Daniel's wisdom come from?
7. What do the fasting, sackcloth, and ashes tell us of Daniel's prayer?
8. What is the first thing to do in prayer?
9. Jesus said, "If ye love me, keep my _____________".
10. Who was Daniel confessing for?
11. What two types of sin does he specifically mention in 5?
12. Who had the people chosen to believe, instead of the prophets of God?
13. What sin had Israel committed?
14. Why does God not retain His anger forever?
15. What made the Hebrews different from the countries around them?
16. Why was God's curse poured out on them?
17. God is loving, kind, forgiving, and merciful; but He is the _________ _________.
18. When God delivered them from Egypt, who noticed?
19. Daniel asks forgiveness according to what?
20. No one, then or now, want to be judged by his own ___________.
21. We do not want ___________, we want ________.
22. Explain the progression of Daniel's prayer.
23. What happened, while Daniel was speaking his prayer?
24. How long had Daniel prayed?
25. When had God heard the prayer?
26. What association does Gabriel appear to have with God?
27. What is different about Daniel's understanding?
28. What wonderful thing did Gabriel tell Daniel?
29. How many years do the 70 weeks symbolize?
30. Who is the perfect High Priest?
31. God not only forgives the sinner, but makes provision for that forgiveness to be __________.
32. How did Jesus reconcile us to the Father?
33. How many years did it take to build the temple?
34. From the building of the temple to Messiah, there were _____ years.
35. Who was Messiah cut off for?
36. Who destroyed the temple?
37. What is meant by the sacrifice and oblation stopping in the middle of the week?
Daniel 10:1 "In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a thing was revealed unto Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar; and the thing [was] true, but the time appointed [was] long: and he understood the thing, and had understanding of the vision."
"Third year" (536 B.C.). Two years had passed since the first decree to let Israel return.
Cyrus was the leader of the Persians which overthrew the Babylonian Empire.
Belteshazzar was the name Daniel had been given, while he was captive in Babylon. It is explained that by a vision God revealed to Daniel, things which would take place far in the future.
Daniel 10:2 "In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks."
Mourning was accompanied by wearing sackcloth and throwing ashes upon your head. These weeks were not speaking of a long period of time, like the weeks in the previous chapter.
These weeks were made up of seven, twenty-four-hour days. Even at that, this is a long time to mourn.
The entirety (of chapter 10), is concerned with Daniel's preparation to receive the vision. The emphasis of the chapter is the strengthening of Daniel and the satanic opposition that he and God's angels encountered.
Daniel 10:3 "I ate no, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled."
We see this mourning was accompanied by self-sacrifice upon Daniel's part. This was not a total fast, but was indeed a fast. He was totally devoted to prayer at this time.
Daniel 10:4 "And in the four and twentieth day of the first month, as I was by the side of the great river, which [is] Hiddekel;"
The Hiddekel River is the same as the Tigris River. Their first month is Nisan or Abib, which is about the same as our April. So this is in early spring.
Daniel 10:5 "Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins [were] girded with fine gold of Uphaz:"
"Linen" speaks of righteousness. "Gold" symbolizes the nearness of God. The only thing known of this Uphaz is that it was a region of gold.
This appearance is as a man. Daniel sees the figure of a "certain man." This is probably not the pre-incarnate Christ, because this angel was hindered by "the prince of Persia" (a demon), and because he needed the help of Michael the archangel (verse 13). Neither of these statements could have been said of Christ. This is probably the angel Gabriel.
Daniel 10:6 "His body also [was] like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in color to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude."
The messenger, whom Daniel sees in a vision (verses 1, and 7), was distinct from the angel Michael, from whom he needed assistance (verse 13). The description of such glory has led some to see him as Christ in a pre-incarnate appearance (such as Joshua 5:13; 6:2 and Judges 6:11-23). He is described almost identically to Christ (in Rev. 1:13-16).
Look with me at Revelation:
Revelation 1:13-16 "And in the midst of the seven candlesticks [one] like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle." "His head and [his] hairs [were] white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes [were] as a flame of fire;" "And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters." "And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance [was] as the sun shineth in his strength."
Daniel's reaction is similar to John's (in Revelation chapter 1).
Rev. 1:17 "And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:"
Daniel 10:7 "And I Daniel alone saw the vision: for the men that were with me saw not the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them, so that they fled to hide themselves."
The vision was not for the other men with Daniel. Even though they did not see the vision, the nearness of the heavenly being caused them to shake uncontrollably. They fled.
This reminds me of those who heard God's voice from the mountain, and then were so afraid they asked Moses to represent them to God. They could not stand the presence.
Possibly, the men with Daniel were not believers in God, but men who accompanied high officials wherever they went. Visions are generally for just one person to see.
Daniel 10:8 "Therefore I was left alone, and saw this great vision, and there remained no strength in me: for my comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength."
We see that even though Daniel was a godly man, the contact with this heavenly being, representing God, was almost more than mortal man could endure. All of his strength left him.
"Comeliness" means beauty. I believe Daniel was so overwhelmed, that he became very pale.
Daniel 10:9 "Yet heard I the voice of his words: and when I heard the voice of his words, then was I in a deep sleep on my face, and my face toward the ground."
Daniel was lying prostrate before Him. His face was toward the ground, so as not to see the face of the Lord. He was not exactly asleep, because he heard the Words of God, through this heavenly being.
Daniel 10:10 "And, behold, a hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and [upon] the palms of my hands."
This would have put Daniel in a crawling position. This does not mean that Daniel was to look up. It means that God strengthened Daniel by touching Him, possibly, through this being.
Most likely this was Gabriel who touched him who had interpreted other revelations to Daniel (8:16), and spoke similarly of Daniel's being beloved (in 9:20-23). Gabriel is only mentioned by name 4 times in the entire bible, twice here in Daniel and twice in the book of Luke (verses 1:19 and 26).
Daniel 10:11 "And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling."
The power of God flowing through Daniel gave him strength to stand. He was trembling, but standing. How beautiful to hear that he was greatly beloved of God.
We know, because this being was sent to Daniel, he is not God. He is revealing Himself as God, because of the message he brings. God can speak from a burning bush, or anything, or anyone else He desires to.
Daniel 10:12 "Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words."
This being, which looks like a man, was sent of God with a message to encourage Daniel. His appearance reveals to Daniel that he is sent of God.
"Thy words were heard": This was a great encouragement from God who was attentive to prayer and acted to answer it.
Daniel 10:13 "But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia."
Whoever this is representing God to Daniel, was not powerful enough to break through the Satanic forces to Daniel. There is a great spiritual warfare going on. The forces of God are fighting against the forces of the devil constantly.
The 3 week delay was due to an evil angel opposing Gabriel in heavenly warfare. This angel was specially anointed with Persian power in an effort to thwart the work of God. This tells us that Satan engages in heavenly warfare to influence generations and nations against God and His people.
Angels are ministering spirits to help the saints. Perhaps, Michael (an archangel), had more authority and broke through for him. Today the authority to fight these evil forces lies in the name of Jesus.
Michael is a chief angel of heaven (10:21; 12:1; Jude 9, Rev. 12:7). Michael remained to assure that the Jews would be free to return to their land.
Daniel 10:14 "Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the vision [is] for [many] days."
Gabriel had brought a similar message earlier to Daniel.
"In the latter days" is referring to the future plan of God for His people, extending from Daniel's time to that of the antichrist.
Daniel 10:15 "And when he had spoken such words unto me, I set my face toward the ground, and I became dumb."
"Dumb" means unable to speak. Again, Daniel was humbled by this presence and the Words of God he brought.
Daniel 10:16 "And, behold, [one] like the similitude of the sons of men touched my lips: then I opened my mouth, and spake, and said unto him that stood before me, O my lord, by the vision my sorrows are turned upon me, and I have retained no strength."
Angels are spirits, but can appear as men.
Hebrews 13:2 "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
This touch on the lips of Daniel came from God, but was through this being appearing as sons of men. In other words, he looked like a man.
Daniel 10:17 "For how can the servant of this my lord talk with this my lord? for as for me, straightway there remained no strength in me, neither is there breath left in me."
Whoever this appearance is of, Daniel associates him with the Lord. He truly is representing the Lord to Daniel. Daniel's strength and breath have left him, because of the nearness of this presence.
Daniel 10:18 "Then there came again and touched me [one] like the appearance of a man, and he strengthened me,"
This again, is like a touch of the Lord. It is the Lord's strength that comes into Daniel. The being, appearing as the Lord, is the one bringing the strength. Of course, the strength comes from the Lord.
Daniel 10:19 "And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace [be] unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me."
"I was strengthened": This is the third time showing the overwhelming trauma of divine presence and revelation.
This is telling Daniel to be strong mentally and physically to do the work of the Lord. This is almost as if this being is saying, receive the strength the Lord has given you, and apply it to your actions.
In the beginning of this lesson, we knew that Daniel was fasting. Fasting, in the natural, makes you very weak. In the spirit, the Lord strengthens us when we fast. He receives the strengthening, because he said I was strengthened.
Daniel 10:20 "Then said he, Knowest thou wherefore I come unto thee? and now will I return to fight with the prince of Persia: and when I am gone forth, lo, the prince of Grecia shall come."
It is God who fights the battles for all of His children. The Persians were in control, when Daniel had this vision.
"The prince of Persia" is an evil angel contesting for the kingdom of Greece and soon after the Grecians had control.
God sets kingdoms up, and pulls them down. Both the Persians and the Greeks will be fallen, when God gets ready for their fall. There is a warfare in the Spirit world, as well.
Ephesians 6:12 "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places]."
The prince of Persia and the prince of Grecia were speaking of warfare with Satan's army.
Daniel 10:21 "But I will show thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and [there is] none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince."
Michael is the Archangel associated with the one we call Jesus. The one speaking here to Daniel is Gabriel. The visions (of the 11th and 12th chapters), are revealed to the mind and spirit of Daniel.
"Scripture of truth": God's plan of certain and true designs for men and nations, which He can reveal according to His discretion. The angel with Michael intended to handle the demons of Persia and Greece. This actually forms the heavenly basis for the earthly unfolding of history (in 11:2-35).
Daniel Chapter 10 Questions
1. What was Daniel's Babylonian name?
2. When did Daniel have this vision?
3. How long was Daniel mourning?
4. What type of food did Daniel give up in this fast?
5. What is another name for the Hiddekel River?
6. What is the Jewish first month?
7. Which of our months is it similar to?
8. Who did Daniel see?
9. What does "linen" speak of?
10. What does the "gold" symbolize?
11. Who does the author believe this to be?
12. Describe this being that looked like a man.
13. Where do we read a similar description?
14. Who are these both descriptions of?
15. Since the Lord Jesus does not need assistance from anyone, who is this figure?
16. Who besides Daniel, saw the vision?
17. What happened to the men with Daniel?
18. What happened to Daniel, when he had this vision?
19. What does "comeliness" mean?
20. What did Daniel hear?
21. A ______ touched Daniel, and brought him upon his knees.
22. What gave Daniel the power to stand?
23. When was help sent to Daniel?
24. Who withstood the help God sent?
25. Who came to help break through to Daniel?
26. How does a Christian fight these evil forces?
27. When is this vision for?
28. What does dumb mean?
29. Whose strength comes into Daniel?
30. What does he call Daniel in verse 19?
31. Who would he return to fight with?
32. The vision is revealed to the _______ and ______ of Daniel.
Daniel 11:1 "Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, [even] I, stood to confirm and to strengthen him."
This is the beginning of the things that Daniel was told to understand in the vision. Some believe this was actually Cyrus, instead of Darius. For our study here, it makes no difference who was the king. We are looking at the spiritual side of these lessons, not the technical.
The messenger of 10:10 continues to speak of assisting Michael, even as Michael had strengthened him (in the battle with demons in 10:21), confirming Darius in his purpose of kindness to Israel in decreeing their return.
Verses 2-45: (As in 8:3-26), this prophecy sweeps all the way from the history of spiritual conflict in Israel (11:2-35), to the tribulation (verses 36-42), when Michael aids in fully delivering Israel (12:1). The detail of this history is so minute and accurate so confirmed by history, that unbelieving critics have, without evidence, insisted that it was actually written 400 years later than Daniel, after it had happened which would have made the prophet a deceiver. The prophecy actually looks ahead from Daniel to the final Antichrist.
The section (of 2-35), unfolds the near fulfillment of the Persian kingdom and the reign of Greece through Antiochus Epiphanes.
Daniel 11:2 "And now will I show thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet three kings in Persia; and the fourth shall be far richer than [they] all: and by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against the realm of Grecia."
These Persian kings are speaking of those who reigned after Babylon was taken by Cyrus. Those were Cambyses (530-522 B.C.); Pseudo-Smerdis (522 B.C.); and Darius I Hystaspes (522-486 B.C.).
The fourth is Xerxes I, called Ahasuerus in Esther (486-465 B.C.). Kings after Xerxes are not included, probably because Xerxes' failed military campaign against the Greeks (481-479 B.C.). sounded the beginning of the end for Persia, which finally fell (331 B.C.), to Alexander the Great.
Daniel 11:3 "And a mighty king shall stand up, that shall rule with great dominion, and do according to his will."
This is speaking of Alexander the Great of Greece. Alexander the Great destroyed the armies of Persia. He was powerful in his rule. Many thought he might rule the world.
Daniel 11:4 And when he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken, and shall be divided toward the four winds of heaven; and not to his posterity, nor according to his dominion which he ruled: for his kingdom shall be plucked up, even for others beside those.
After the death of Alexander (in 323 B.C.), four generals who were not of his posterity took sectors of his wide empire.
Even this great kingdom, falls to the Roman Empire.
The king of the South is Egypt. One of the princes under the king rises to overthrow the king. The king of the North (Aram or Syria), receive emphasis (in verse 5 and after). As time moved on other leaders ruled, crossing and re-crossing Palestine.
Daniel 11:5 "And the king of the south shall be strong, and [one] of his princes; and he shall be strong above him, and have dominion; his dominion [shall be] a great dominion."
King of the South represents the Ptolemies, the leaders of Egypt, contrasted often (in verse 5), with the king of the North, the Seleucids leaders of Syria (verse 6). South and North are in relation to Palestine, for which the angel Gabriel, speaking in the passage, is so concerned. (Verses 5 - 20), cover almost 200 years of wars between these bordering powers.
Daniel 11:6 "And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the king's daughter of the south shall come to the king of the north to make an agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm; neither shall he stand, nor his arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her, and he that begat her, and he that strengthened her in [these] times."
The king of Egypt shall enter into the kingdom of the north to make an agreement. It appears, a daughter tries to marry, to help the agreement to be signed. She is not accepted, and neither is the agreement signed. The expedition is a failure.
Berenice, daughter of Egypt's Ptolemy II Philadelphus (285-246 B.C.), married Syria's King Antiochus II Theos (261-246 B.C.). The latter part of the verse refers to the political advantage they hoped the alliance would produce. Antiochus divorced his wife to marry Berenice. Later that divorced wife murdered Berenice, her baby son, and even Antiochus by poisoning him. Thus she brought her own son, Seleucus II Callinicus, to the throne.
Daniel 11:7 "But out of a branch of her roots shall [one] stand up in his estate, which shall come with an army, and shall enter into the fortress of the king of the north, and shall deal against them, and shall prevail:"
The murdered Berenice's brother stood in his father's place. His name was Ptolemy III Euergetes of Egypt (246-222 B.C.), and in reverse he conquered Syria, sacking their great treasure (verse 8).
Daniel 11:8 "And shall also carry captives into Egypt their gods, with their princes, [and] with their precious vessels of silver and of gold; and he shall continue [more] years than the king of the north."
This is speaking of Egypt prevailing over Syria. The precious things shall be carried as bounty back to Egypt.
Daniel 11:9 "So the king of the south shall come into [his] kingdom, and shall return into his own land."
Syria's Callinicus attacked Egypt (in 240 B.C.), but retreated, soundly beaten.
Daniel 11:10 "But his sons shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of great forces: and [one] shall certainly come, and overflow, and pass through: then shall he return, and be stirred up, [even] to his fortress."
Seleucus' sons (successors), kept up war against Egypt, as described (in verses 11-35).
Daniel 11:11″ And the king of the south shall be moved with choler, and shall come forth and fight with him, [even] with the king of the north: and he shall set forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his hand."
The word "choler" means bitter. His bitterness caused the king of Egypt to come against the king of Syria.
The army, spoken of as a multitude, was about 75,000. The multitude falls into enemy hands. They were defeated here. Ptolemy IV Philopator (222-203 B.C.), devastated the Syrian army under Antiochus III the Great (223-187 B.C.). Egypt's advantage would be brief (verse 12).
Daniel 11:12 "[And] when he hath taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted up; and he shall cast down [many] ten thousands: but he shall not be strengthened [by it]."
Even though the multitude was captured, their captor is not strengthened. Great numbers do not make a great army. Great leadership and great causes, make a great army.
Gideon's army of 300 caused the multitude (so many they were like grasshoppers), of Amalekites and Midianites to flee.
The size of an army is not important. God's blessing on that army is what is important.
Daniel 11:13 "For the king of the north shall return, and shall set forth a multitude greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain years with a great army and with much riches."
A king of Syria shall rise up and attack Egypt. This king will be very rich.
Thirteen years later Antiochus returned with a great army, and in a series of strikes against Egypt brought Palestine (the Beautiful Land), into his control as far South as Gaza.
Daniel 11:14 And in those times there shall many stand up against the king of the south: also the robbers of thy people shall exalt themselves to establish the vision; but they shall fall.
Violent Jews wanted Judean independence from Egypt, but failed in their revolt.
This happens almost as if it were to fulfill the prophecy.
Daniel 11:15 "So the king of the north shall come, and cast up a mount, and take the most fenced cities: and the arms of the south shall not withstand, neither his chosen people, neither [shall there be any] strength to withstand."
The king of the north is Syria. It appears from this they come against Israel, as well as against Egypt. Egypt or Israel will not be able to withstand.
As we read in Ezekiel, a mount is a mountain of dirt. Which is built up and pushed up against the walls, thus allowing soldiers to breach the top by simply walking up the mount and onto the top.
Daniel 11:16 "But he that cometh against him shall do according to his own will, and none shall stand before him: and he shall stand in the glorious land, which by his hand shall be consumed."
The glorious land is speaking of the land of Israel. The land of Israel is consumed, as well as Egypt being attacked.
This speaks of Antiochus III the Great who took lasting dominion over Israel.
The land of Israel is consumed, as well as Egypt being attacked.
Daniel 11:17 "He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of his whole kingdom, and upright ones with him; thus shall he do: and he shall give him the daughter of women, corrupting her: but she shall not stand [on his side], neither be for him."
Antiochus gathered all his forces together for the conquest of Egypt. When he realized the power of Rome, he tried to make a treaty with Ptolemy. He gave Cleopatra to him to wife, to help in the treaty. He thought she would act as a spy for him in the kingdom, but this did not happen.
Cleopatra was true to her husband, instead of spying for her father. She, along with her husband, even sent congratulations to Rome, when they overthrew her father's army.
Daniel 11:18 "After this shall he turn his face unto the isles, and shall take many: but a prince for his own behalf shall cause the reproach offered by him to cease; without his own reproach he shall cause [it] to turn upon him."
Antiochus took advantage of the defeat of Phillip of Macedon by the Romans, and he took the islands of the archipelago. He had set his sights to conquer Greece, along the Mediterranean coastlands. But this brought him into conflict with Rome, so that a Roman, Lucius Scipio Asiaticus, repaid the Syrian aggression against Roman rights in the area with a resounding defeat.
Daniel 11:19 "Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own land: but he shall stumble and fall, and not be found."
Antiochus returned from defeat to his own land compelled by Rome to relinquish all his territory west of the Taurus and to repay the costs of war. He was likely killed by defenders of a Persian temple he tried to plunder at night in Elymais (to get money to pay reparations required by Rome).
Daniel 11:20 "Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes [in] the glory of the kingdom: but within few days he shall be destroyed, neither in anger, nor in battle."
Rome required Seleucus IV Philopator to render tribute. The Romans put heavy payment requirements on all those they controlled. The Syrian set out to tax his subjects heavily to raise the tribute. Soon, he died after being poisoned.
Daniel 11:21 "And in his estate shall stand up a vile person, to whom they shall not give the honor of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries."
(In verses 21-35), the cruelest king of the North was Seleucid, the Syrian persecutor of Israel named Antiochus IV Epiphanes. He came to the throne when his brother Seleucus was murdered and a son of the dead king who might succeed him, Demetrius I Soter, was held hostage in Rome. In the vacuum, Antiochus seized power in Syria.
Daniel 11:22 "And with the arms of a flood shall they be overflown from before him, and shall be broken; yea, also the prince of the covenant."
The prince that had made covenant was on the side of this one, who took over without a fight. Egypt's armies were swept away by Antiochus' invading forces as by a flood.
Daniel 11:23 "And after the league [made] with him he shall work deceitfully: for he shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people."
This has to do with Epiphanes receiving the throne. This has nothing to do with power, but is trickery in action. It appears he made an agreement and then did not keep his bargain.
Antiochus developed an alliance with Ptolemy VI Euergetes II (distinct from the leader in verse 7). By this alliance, Antiochus deceitfully plotted to gain greater power in Egypt. With a "small force," he conquered Memphis and the rest of Egypt all the way to Alexandria.
Daniel 11:24 "He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do [that] which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers' fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: [yea], and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a time."
Antiochus, under the guise of friendship, plundered the richest Egyptian places he could strike. To gain support, he gave lavish gifts, possibly battle spoils.
"His devices against the strong hold": He formed a scheme to take over Egypt.
Daniel Chapter 11 Questions
1. What is verse 1 the beginning of?
2. Who is this 4th king of Persia that verse 2 is speaking of?
3. Which of the kings attacked Greece?
4. Who is the mighty king, that rises up in Greece?
5. What happens, to his kingdom?
6. This great kingdom of Greece falls to ________.
7. The king of the south is king of what country?
8. What happens when the daughter tries to help get an agreement for Egypt?
9. They land of the north is ___________.
10. Egypt prevails over __________.
11. What does "choler" mean?
12. What happens to the multitude mentioned in verse 11?
13. What makes a great army?
14. _________ army of 300 caused the armies of the Amalekites and Midianites to flee?
15. How many were in the army of the Amalekites and Midianites in the battle against Gideon?
16. The king of Syria comes against ________, as well as against Egypt.
17. What country is the glorious land?
18. Antiochus brought his army against whom?
19. What did he do, when he began to fear Rome?
20. Who was the woman given in marriage to Ptolemy?
21. Did she spy for her father, as he wanted?
22. What did Antiochus take, because of the defeat of Phillip of Macedon by Rome?
23. What happened to Antiochus?
24. When he fails in his conquest, what does he do?
25. They raised taxes for what purpose?
26. Verse 24 is speaking of ____________ entering into Palestine, or Egypt.
Daniel 11:25 "And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the south with a great army; and the king of the south shall be stirred up to battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand: for they shall forecast devices against him."
The king of the south is speaking of the king of Egypt. The leader of the war against Egypt, here, is Epiphanes (Antiochus). In this battle, they advance as far as Memphis.
Antiochus attacked Philometer, who had become an enemy. The latter fell due to treachery by trusted supporters (verse 26a), and became Antiochus' captive.
Daniel 11:26 "Yea, they that feed of the portion of his meat shall destroy him, and his army shall overflow: and many shall fall down slain."
Betraying counselors whom Philometer fed, led him to attack Syria to secure his defeat and death for him and his men.
It seemed that treachery within their own ranks caused their great defeat. Ptolemy Philometer was taken prisoner by his uncle, and his brother took over the reign.
Daniel 11:27 "And both these kings' hearts [shall be] to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper: for yet the end [shall be] at the time appointed."
It appears the two kings mentioned here dine at the same table. They both lie to each other. They, both, will soon face the Romans. They were unsuccessful with all their lies.
Daniel 11:28 "Then shall he return into his land with great riches; and his heart [shall be] against the holy covenant; and he shall do [exploits], and return to his own land."
It was Epiphanes that plundered the temple, and carried the treasures home.
Daniel 11:29 "At the time appointed he shall return, and come toward the south; but it shall not be as the former, or as the latter."
It appears as if Ptolemy and his brother have settled their differences this time, and the Syrians find a different situation than they expected.
Daniel 11:30 "For the ships of Chittim shall come against him: therefore he shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant: so shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant."
This has suddenly mentioned the Romans. They are opposed to Epiphanes going any further into Egypt. Rome has, at this time, become very powerful, and the Syrians listen to them and go no further into Egypt.
About this time, there was a systematic attempt to destroy the Jews and Judaism. They all believed if they could destroy the religion of the Jews, they could completely take them over.
Daniel 11:31 "And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily [sacrifice], and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate."
This was an attempt to stop the worship of God. They would immediately stop the daily sacrificing and worshipping of the One True God. Antiochus had forbidden daily sacrifices.
They probably erected an altar of Jupiter, in the place where the daily sacrifices had previously been made.
Daniel 11:32 "And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do [exploits]."
The people of God shall become even stronger, because of this persecution. Some of the priests had been influenced wrongly by the flatteries.
Daniel 11:33 "And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, [many] days."
Those who truly knew God instructed others one on one. Even their great faith did not save them from being killed by the sword. Those the sword did not get, the fire did.
Daniel 11:34 "Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries."
Even those who had been influenced by the flattery helped those who were fallen. The things that happened immediately, prior to the coming of Messiah, are actually a shadow of things in the end time.
We might say that Epiphanes was a type of the little horn (antichrist).
Daniel 11:35 "And [some] of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make [them] white, [even] to the time of the end: because [it is] yet for a time appointed."
This has jumped to the time of the end. Those who are tried here, are speaking of the Christians. "White" indicates righteousness.
1 Peter 1:7 "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:"
In this life, we have tribulation, as we read in the next verse.
Acts 14:22 "Confirming the souls of the disciples, [and] exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God."
The word "purge" means examine, select, or cleanse. It, also, means to make pure. Jesus is coming back for a bride (church), that is without spot or wrinkle. Our prayer should be, "Oh Lord, purge me and make me white as snow".
Daniel 11:36 "And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvelous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done."
This is speaking of that evil ruler, we call the antichrist. He will obtain power for a very short 7 years. He will proclaim himself god, and demand all to bow down and worship him. He is in rebellion against God and all of God's followers.
God determines all things. God allows him to do all of this for a short period. It is part of God's plan. The great tribulation is divided into two 3-1/2 year periods. The first 3-1/2 years are tribulation, and the last 3-1/2 years are the great tribulation, and are spoken of as the wrath of God.
Christians are saved from the wrath.
Daniel 11:37 "Neither shall he regard the God of his fathers, nor the desire of women, nor regard any god: for he shall magnify himself above all."
The fact that the God of his fathers is mentioned, leads me to believe he is of Hebrew descent. He is either a eunuch, or a homosexual, or just a woman hater. The woman symbolizes the church throughout the Bible. This could, also, mean he does not regard Christianity. He is centered on self. He has no regard for any god.
He proclaims himself god.
2 Thessalonians 2:4 "Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God."
He is not God. He just wants to be God. He is antichrist. He is opposed to Christ.
1 John 2:22 "Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son."
Daniel 11:38 "But in his estate shall he honor the God of forces: and a god whom his fathers knew not shall he honor with gold, and silver, and with precious stones, and pleasant things."
He places his trust in force and power. He is not a man of faith. Material things mean a great deal to him. The antichrist system is a counterfeit of God. Just as God the Father, God the Word, and God the Holy Spirit make up the One in God; the antichrist, false prophet, and the beast make up the antichrist system.
His power comes from great wealth and power to cause people to take the mark of the beast. The antichrist will be a man of great financial connections. The false prophet will be someone pretending to be representing the church. The beast is something that gives the antichrist power to number the people.
There is a master computer, today, that has the power to keep track of all worldly transactions. Strangely enough, it is named the beast.
Daniel 11:39 "Thus shall he do in the most strongholds with a strange god, whom he shall acknowledge [and] increase with glory: and he shall cause them to rule over many, and shall divide the land for gain."
There will be great alliances with this antichrist. In fact, the first 3-1/2 years, it will seem as if he is the answer to the world's problems. Most people believe the world's problems are financial. If he were to release great wealth into the land, he could momentarily cause prosperity. It would seem to be the answer to the problems.
This man will have to be someone who controls the greatest part of the money in the world. There will come a time, when it will not be necessary to have paper money. Everyone will have a number, and can transact with that number.
Revelation 13:16-17 "And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:" "And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name."
The transfer of value could be handled electronically by the computer.
Daniel 11:40 "And at the time of the end shall the king of the south push at him: and the king of the north shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter into the countries, and shall overflow and pass over."
The king of the south could be Egypt, Libya, Ethiopia, or any other country south of Israel. The king of the north here, could be the area we used to call Russia, or any other country north of Israel.
Notice, it appears the king of the north and the king of the south are both against the same man. This reminds me very much of the army (in Ezekiel chapter 38).
Daniel 11:41 "He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many [countries] shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, [even] Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon."
Notice, this centers in the holy land (Israel).
Daniel 11:42 "He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries: and the land of Egypt shall not escape."
This powerful ruler that has set himself up as god in the temple in Jerusalem, has control over many armies and many countries. At one point, they will all be subject to him.
Daniel 11:43 "But he shall have power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt: and the Libyans and the Ethiopians [shall be] at his steps."
We had mentioned earlier, that this was a man of great wealth and power. Nothing will be withheld from him. This ruler is against Christ, and all the believers in Christ. Many nations feel the same way he does about the Christians and Christ.
Daniel 11:44 "But tidings out of the east and out of the north shall trouble him: therefore he shall go forth with great fury to destroy, and utterly to make away many."
Any hint of any country being opposed to him, would bring their sudden destruction. He will set himself up to be ruler of the whole earth.
Daniel 11:45 "And he shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and none shall help him."
The palace of the antichrist will be in Israel. Specifically here, it speaks of it being just away from the Mediterranean. The holy mountain is in Jerusalem. God will fight this antichrist. He will be overthrown by God.
Daniel Chapter 11 Continued Questions
1. The king of the south in verse 1, is speaking of the king of __________.
2. Who was the leader against Egypt?
3. How far into Egypt did they advance?
4. What does verse 26 indicate was going on?
5. What happened to Ptolemy?
6. What do the two evil kings' lies accomplish?
7. Who plundered the temple, and took the treasures home?
8. What caused the Syrians to have a more difficult time against Ptolemy?
9. Who is verse 30 speaking of?
10. Why did the Syrians turn back and not go deeper into Egypt?
11. About this time, there was a systematic attempt to destroy the _____ and _________.
12. ____________ had forbidden daily sacrifices.
13. What false god did they erect an altar to?
14. What made the people of God even stronger than they had been?
15. Their great faith did not keep them protected from what?
16. Verse 35 jumps to what time?
17. Who are the tried in verse 35?
18. White indicates _____________.
19. What does "purge" mean?
20. What should be the prayer of Christians?
21. Who is this speaking of?
22. How long will he be in power?
23. The great tribulation is divided how?
24. What does the statement "God of his fathers" indicate?
25. This antichrist is either a _________, _________, or a woman hater.
26. Who could be the woman he hates?
27. He is centered on _______.
28. What does he place his trust in?
29. What or who, make up the antichrist system?
30. Who will the antichrist be?
31. Who will the false prophet be?
32. What will the beast be?
33. What will the first 3-1/2 years of the tribulation be like?
34. Where will the palace of the antichrist be?
35. Who will overthrow the antichrist?
Daniel 12:1 "And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation [even] to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book."
In chapter 11, we were brought to the "time of the end". Notice the word "and" which connects this with the end of the last chapter which was speaking of the willful king, the Antichrist.
During the Great Tribulation, there will be an unprecedented attack to exterminate the Jews, but they will be delivered by Michael the archangel.
First of all, we must see that Michael is a ministering spirit to the believers. He is actually an archangel over the other angels. His ministry is directly under the instructions of the Lord Jesus Christ.
We know the time mentioned here, is the end of the Gentile age. This points back (to 11:36-45), the time of the ascendance of Antichrist during the final tribulation period. During that period, Michael the archangel (Jude 9; 10:13), 21 ministers with special attention to protecting Israel during that Gentile time (Isa. 26:20-21; Jer. 30:7; Matt. 24:21).
This time of trouble is speaking of the great tribulation. Notice also, that the deliverance of those, whose names are written in the Lamb's book (the book of the saved), is not before this time, but during.
To have your name written in the book means you are saved.
Daniel 12:2 "And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame [and] everlasting contempt."
You can read a great deal more of this (in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17). This happens at the rapture which happens before the tribulation starts.
"But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope." "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him." "For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive [and] remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep." "For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:" "Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord."
Two groups will arise from death constituting the "many", meaning all (as in John).
John 5:28-29 "Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice," "And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation."
Those of faith will rise to eternal life when the rapture occurs. Sometime after that (this is the pre-tribulation view), the tribulation will begin. We don't know the timing of that which could be a short time or a considerable time afterwards.
After the 7 years of tribulation there will be two resurrections, one of the righteous to everlasting life for those who refused to take the mark of the beast during the tribulation which happens at the end of tribulation, and another of the unrighteous to everlasting contempt. (This is the White Throne Judgment). These two resurrections are separated by the one-thousand-year reign of Christ.
Revelation 20:4 "And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and [I saw] the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received [his] mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years."
Jesus is the Judge of all the earth. Then Jesus separates them into those receiving everlasting life at His right hand, and those doomed for all eternity on His left.
Matthew 25:46 "And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal."
This is referring to the time of the judging of all nations which you can read about (in Matthew 25:31-34; actually read to verse 46).
Matt. 25:31-34 "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory:" "And before Him shall be gathered all nations: and He shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth [his] sheep from the goats:" "And he shall set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left." "Then shall the King say unto them on His right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:"
Daniel 12:3 "And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever."
This is speaking of being wise unto salvation. The following is a companion Scripture to this.
Matthew 13:43 "Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear."
The greatest privilege any of us have, is leading someone to the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus is the Light of the world. When He comes and dwells within us, His Light shines forth through us. It is His Light that causes us to shine.
James 5:20 "Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins."
God gives special honor in heaven to those who work at saving souls on the earth.
This is speaking of those having true knowledge by faith in God's Word. Not only leaders (as 11:33), but others (11:35; 12:10).
To "shine" in glory is a privilege of all the saved. Any who influence others for righteousness shine like stars in varying capacities of light as their reward (as in 1 Cor.):
1 Corinthians 3:8 "Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor".
Daniel 12:4 "But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, [even] to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased."
The time referred to is Daniel's 70 th week, which is the tribulation.
World knowledge is at an all time high right now. We have no problem seeing people running to and fro. The freeways are full of cars carrying people to different places. We are running to and fro at this very time.
This message was not for Daniel's time. It is for our time. His book has been sealed to full understanding from his time to now. It is easier to look back over history, and see what Daniel talked about in the first few chapters of this book.
This 12th chapter looks into the future. The book of Daniel is easier understood today than ever before, perhaps because we are living in the time of the end. This better characterizes this time than all of the rest. This is the age of the coming of the Lord.
The "back and forth" and "to and fro" contains a Hebrew verb form that always refers to the movement of a person searching for something. In the tribulation, people will search for answers to the devastation and discover increased knowledge through Daniel's preserved book.
Daniel 12:5 "Then I Daniel looked, and, behold, there stood other two, the one on this side of the bank of the river, and the other on that side of the bank of the river."
These two are probably angel beings. Had the Lord wanted us to know their names He would have given them. The message is the important thing. The message carrier is not important.
The bank of the River is unimportant, as well. It could have been the Tigris River. The fact there were two is for witness. By two, a thing is established. The two could also symbolize the spiritual house of Israel and the physical house of Israel.
Daniel 12:6 "And [one] said to the man clothed in linen, which [was] upon the waters of the river, How long [shall it be to] the end of these wonders?"
"Linen" speaks of righteousness. The man clothed in linen was of higher rank than the two. They were looking to Him for answers, as if He were the Lord. Notice also, he was on the water, not in the water.
We see in the following Scripture that the disciples asked the Lord Jesus the same question.
Matthew 24:3 "And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what [shall be] the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?"
When most people look at the Lord, they see the figure of a man. It could also be Michael, representing the Lord Jesus.
We also saw someone similar to this (in chapter 10:5).
Daniel 12:7 "And I heard the man clothed in linen, which [was] upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that [it shall be] for a time, times, and a half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these [things] shall be finished."
This answers the question (of verse 6). This is speaking of that 3-1/2 years period, we have mentioned before. Time is one year, times is two years, and half time is half a year. The following Scriptures are the same thing.
Revelation 10:5-6 "And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven," "And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer:"
He that liveth forever and ever is God. Notice also, it is the power of the holy people scattered, not the holy people. This could be speaking of the time, when the God pours out His Spirit on all flesh.
Having said all this, the question comes to mind about the words "scatter the power" used here which seems to hold a key.
Bertrand L. Comparet explains it this way: Until the last few years, these words were incomprehensible; and we did not want to believe them, because "scattering the power of the holy people" certainly prophesied nothing but trouble. Some tried to read another meaning into that word "scatter"; but it is the Hebrew word 'naw-fa' which cannot be given the meaning to expand and spread out: its meaning is to scatter, or to dash to pieces and scatter the fragments. Therefore, our power is to be scattered, in an unfavorable sense, and then the time of trouble will be ended with our rescue by the return of Jesus Christ with the armies of heaven.
When our America's power was concentrated, in World Wars I and II, it was irresistible; but scattered, a little here, a little there, it can be destroyed by the enemy because there is not enough of it at any one place. And that is exactly what our enemies were planning. One of the basic principles of warfare, centuries older than ancient Egypt, is that an army which is kept together can defeat a far larger army which has been separated into several smaller groups, by defeating each of these groups in turn. Our enemies are maneuvering us into the fatal error of scattering our forces. Many of you will remember that some far sighted patriots warned us, as much as ten years ago, that politicians in high places in our government were in the service of our enemies, and that they planned to take the United States Army out of the country, scatter it all over the world, disarm the civilians at home, and hand us over completely helpless to our enemies, and enslavement for such of us as they may permit to survive.
Now, Daniel's strange words make sense. "The power of the holy people" is already "scattered", which when completed, will make our very survival impossible, on any merely human basis: nothing but the power of God can rescue us from the consequence of our amazing folly. Yet in all this there is also a note of hope: it will not take much longer for the plot to "scatter the power of the holy people" to be completed, leaving us defenseless before our enemies. But that is exactly what brings God to the rescue, for the angel told Daniel, "when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, ALL THESE THINGS SHALL BE FINISHED".
Daniel 12:8 "And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what [shall be] the end of these [things]?"
Daniel is like so many of us. He heard the words, but he did not understand what they were saying. His only chance of understanding is in the Lord.
Daniel 12:9 "And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words [are] closed up and sealed till the time of the end."
The Words are sealed until the time of the end. These things will become more apparent to the generation this comes upon. I personally believe this is our generation. The reading of the book of Daniel was not sealed, but the understanding was sealed.
Daniel 12:10 "Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand."
Salvation will come to many Jews during the Great Tribulation (see Zech. 13:8-9)
"And it shall come to pass, [that] in all the land, saith the LORD, two parts therein shall be cut off [and] die; but the third shall be left therein." "And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It [is] my people: and they shall say, The LORD [is] my God."
The truly saved develop in godliness through trials. The unsaved pursue false values.
True wisdom comes from God. Only those who belong to God will understand. The blood of the Lord Jesus Christ purifies the Christian. We are made white, because we have been washed in His blood.
Revelation 7:14 "And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb."
We must realize that the Christians will be tried.
John 16:33 "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."
The wicked are living for this life, and the pleasures they can get now. They are not looking to eternity.
Daniel 12:11 "And from the time [that] the daily [sacrifice] shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, [there shall be] a thousand two hundred and ninety days."
This is a time when all worship, as we know it, will be stopped. This is 30 days after the middle of the 7 years of tribulation (which is a little over 3-1/2 years).
This reference is to the end of daily temple sacrifice, previously allowed under a covenant which the Antichrist formed with Israel, which he later causes to cease in the middle of the final 7 years. Then, favorable relations give way to persecution.
Even his abomination that desecrates the temple (as in 9:27; Matt. 24:1; Mark 13:14; and 2 Thess. 2:3-4), is accomplished with persecution.
Daniel 12:12 "Blessed [is] he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days."
The Christians are the blessed.
This is in the kingdom (2:35, 45; 7:13-14, and 27), that gives blessedness after the subjugation to Gentile empires (in chapters 2, 7 and 8).
"Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the one thousand three hundred five and thirty days". Which is an addition of forty five days or years more, beginning at the end of one thousand two hundred and ninety, and make up this sum; during which time the vials will be poured out upon all the antichristian states. And the Turkish empire be destroyed, and all the enemies of Christ and His church removed, and clear way made for the setting up of His kingdom in the world in a more visible and glorious manner. And therefore, happy is the man that will be found waiting for these times, and live to enjoy them.
Forty five more days, even beyond the 1290 days, allows for transition between Israel's time of being shattered (verse 7), and God's setting up of His kingdom. (7:13-14; and 27).
Daniel 12:13 "But go thou thy way till the end [be]: for thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the days."
Soon Daniel's own career would involve death and he shall rest. Daniel would not live to see the fulfillment of his own prophecies, but is here promised that he would be resurrected to receive his reward (thou shall stand in thy lot). All who trust in Daniel's God will likewise be blessed.
Luke 21:36 "Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man."
Every individual person, who ever lived, stands before Jesus to be judged. Those who did not receive Jesus as their Savior will be judged guilty, and sent to everlasting torment.
Those who are Christians will be judged to receive their rewards. They all receive everlasting life, but some receive a reward for their work on earth.
Salvation is a free gift. It does not need to be earned. Rewards are extras.
Daniel Chapter 12 Questions
1. Who is Michael?
2. What time is mentioned here?
3. What one word connects chapter 12, and the last part of chapter 11?
4. Who are delivered?
5. What does it mean to have your name written in the book.
6. What do the dead rise to?
7. Where is a Scripture that makes this very clear?
8. ________ is the Judge of all the earth.
9. What kind of wisdom is this speaking of?
10. What is our greatest privilege?
11. ________ is the Light of the world.
12. What is Daniel to do with the words and the book?
13. Many shall run ___ and _____, and knowledge shall be ___________.
14. This is the age of the ________ of the _______.
15. Who are the two on the sides of the river?
16. This river could have been the ________.
17. What are some of the things two symbolize?
18. Who held up his right hand and His left hand to heaven?
19. What does time, times, and half a time mean?
20. What is a companion Scripture to verse 7?
21. What did Daniel ask the Lord?
22. What was His answer to Daniel?
23. True wisdom comes from _____.
24. What purifies the Christian?
25. What is meant by the daily sacrifice being taken away?
26. 1290 days are approximately how many years?
27. Who are the blessed?
28. How long must they wait?
29. Who are judged at the end of the world?
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