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Nazarene Commentary 2000©

21^st Century Paraphrase of the Hebrew Scriptures© –
21^st Century Version of the Christian Scriptures© [NCMM]

THE PROPHET DANIEL

DANIEL 2 & 7 – WORLD RULE AND GOD’S KINGDOM

Daniel 2:31-35 and 7:2, 3 – Two Dreams Regarding World Rule

DN2:31 O king [Nebuchadnezzar] 1, you saw and beheld a great idol-Image. 2 Standing right before you, this brilliant idol-Image was incredibly huge and its appearance was fearsome. {

1

O king (Nebuchadnezzar): Opinions vary on the exact dating of matters though many would place this between 640-550 BCE. The king of Babylon has had a dream and no Babylonian priest can tell him what it is as well as the interpretation. Daniel, a young exile from Israel, is remembered and brought forth to attempt the king’s request. The prophet successfully tells the king what his dream was and then proceeds to give the inspired interpretation. Inserted with this dream is a parallel vision experienced by Daniel himself years later. It is thought by many that these two dreams/visions are very much related and much of the interpretative commentary to follow is in harmony with the general views held centuries.

2	A great idol-image: The Aramaic is TSELEM [ אמלצ - Strong’s # 6755] and is rendered image or idol. The Greek is EIKON [ εικον ] and literally means “icon” or idol/image. It occurs about 16 times in Daniel. We see the king in his bed with this great image at the foot.

DN7:2 Now, 3 look! the four winds of the Sky blew violently 4 on the Great Sea. 5

3	Now: We now insert the parallel vision of Daniel.

4

Four winds of the Sky blew violently: Daniel’s vision begins with a storm over the ocean. Note the “four winds” at Revelation 7:1 and Revelation 9:15, 16. Implied are the four directions of the compass (NEWS) over a large region. Compare 1 Chronicles 9:24; Jeremiah 49:36; Ezekiel 37:9; Daniel 8:8; Daniel 11:; Zechariah 2:6; Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Revelation 7:1.

5

The Great Sea: The Greek is THALASSAV TEN MEGALEN. The Aramaic and Hebrew are similar. Compare Numbers 34:6, 7; Joshua 1:4; 9:1; 15:12, 47; 23:4; Ezekiel 47:10, 15, 19, 20; 48:28. These all refer to the Mediterranean Sea. If this be the correct rendering there is a strong possibility that Daniel also beholds these beasts coming up out of the Mediterreanen Sea. Just so, the beastly world powers to rise all came from around that part of the world.

DN7:3 Then four gigantic beasts ascended from the Sea, 6 each beast differing from another.}

6

Four gigantic beasts ascended from the Sea: NRS: the great sea. The Aramaic for beast is CHEYVA’ [אויח = Strong’s #2423] and occurs about two dozen times in Daniel. The Greek is THERIA and is the same word used 39 times in Revelation. These four governmental beasts parallel the four metallic kingdoms. This prophecy is limited to that area around the Mediterranean Sea with its focus on Israel as an occupied nation following the Sixth Century BCE. Ray C. Stedman: “The great sea is always, in Scripture, the Mediterranean Sea. You will find many verses which establish that clearly, from many parts of the Scripture. It is the great sea that forms the western boundary of Israel. Daniel saw the four winds of heaven blowing upon and stirring up or creating a tumult, in this great sea. Thus, the locale of these visions centers upon the Mediterranean and involves an apparent struggle for the mastery of the Mediterranean area.”

DN2:32 Now this idol-Image had 7 a head of finest gold, chest and arms of silver, stomach and thighs of copper,

7

Now this idol-image had: There are four primary parts to the metallic image just as there are four beasts in Daniel’s vision. The four metals descend in value but increase in strength: gold, silver, copper, and iron. Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary: “This vision contains the same prophetic representations with Nebuchadnezzar's dream. The great sea agitated by the winds, represented the earth and the dwellers on it troubled by ambitious princes and conquerors. The four beasts signified the same four empires, as the four parts of Nebuchadnezzar's image. Mighty conquerors are but instruments of God's vengeance on a guilty world. The savage beast represents the hateful features of their characters. But the dominion given to each has a limit; their wrath shall be made to praise the Lord, and the remainder of it he will restrain.”

DN2:33 legs of iron, feet were part iron and clay. 8

8	Feet were part iron and clay: It seems the feet (likely with ten toes though this is never mentioned) are a separate and important element to the whole Image incorporate.

DN2:34 You continued to watch as a Stone was cut out [of a mountain] without human hands. 9 This Stone struck the idol-Image on the feet of iron and clay pulverizing them.

9

A Stone was cut out (of a mountain) without human hands: The Aramaic for “stone” is `EBEN [ ןבא = Strong’s #69] and occurs most often here in Daniel. The Jewish Greek Bible of the Third Century BCE adds “of the mountain.” The Greek word for stone here is LITHOS. The phrase “without human hands” infers a divine source. Compare 2 Corinthians 5:1. The Stone is not identified here but the result is the destruction of the incorporate idol-Image.

DN2:35 Then the iron, clay, copper, silver and gold were crushed all together. [The pulverized dust] became like chaff of the summer threshing-floor, and the wind blew them away so no place was found for them. Now that Stone striking the idol-Image became a great mountain and filled the earth. 10

10	Filled the earth: The Stone of a divine source destroys the Image and fills the earth. It seems reasonable to infer the result is global.

Daniel 2:36-38 and 7:4 – The Head of Gold

Kingdom Number One

DN2:36 Now this was your dream, O king, and now we will tell you the interpretation. 11

11	We will tell you the interpretation: The use of “we” is interesting. Daniel takes no unique personal credit. He may include the real source of the interpretation, the Revealer of Secrets, in the “we.” The word “interpretation” occurs 30 times in Daniel.

DN2:37 O king – the king of kings – the one to whom 12 The God of heaven has given the kingdom, the power, the strength, the dignity,

12

O king -- the king of kings -- the one to whom: Daniel lauds the king making it clear that he rules by God’s permission. (Compare Romans 13:1-7.) Nebuchadnezzar is to be taught a heavenly lesson on this matter in Daniel 4:1-34 where the inspired interpretation applies the entire dream only to Nebuchadnezzar.

DN2:38 and into whose hand The God has given all the dwelling of humankind, including the animals of the wild and the birds of the Sky – and whom The God has made Lord over all – you are the golden head! 13 {

13

You are the golden head: This inspired interpretation by Daniel’s God gives us the pivot from which to work. We absolutely know that the first metal gold symbolizes Nebuchadnezzar and his ruling dynasty. Many scholars agree that the head of gold represents the world power around the Mediterranean Sea, Babylon. Babylon is first mention in Genesis 10:10 (LXX). Babylon is a place name which occurs about 343 times in the Bible. Note its occurrence in Revelation. (Revelation 14:8; 16:19; 17:5;18:2, 10, 11)

DN7:4 The first beast was like a lion with eagle’s wings. 14 I continued to watch until the wings were plucked, 15 and it was raised up from the ground and made to stand up on two feet just like a human, and a human heart was given to the beast. 16}

14

The first beast was like a lion with eagle’s wings: Judging from the identity of the head of gold this Lion is the world power of Babylon. Interestingly ancient Babylonian reliefs show the winged lion. Compare Joel 1:6 and Lamentations 4:19. (Habakkuk 1:8) The lion [Aramaic: ARYEH'; Greek: LEON] is generally viewed as “the king of beasts” and often associated with royalty or government. The lion is mentioned almost 150 times in the Bible. The lion is speedy running 40 miles per hour and so with wings it is even faster. Wesleys Notes: “The first - This was the Chaldean, or Assyrian; whose seat was first at Babylon, afterwards at Nineveh, and then at Babylon again. Eagle's wings - They were swift, over - running many countries, and brought their monarchy to a prodigious height in a short time. The wings were plucked - Which was first done in stopping the career of their victories, and afterwards in casting them out of their kingdom. A man's heart - They lost their lion - like courage, and became faint and cowardly like other men.” Regarding the eagle: [Hebrew: NESHER; Aramaic: NESHAR meaning “a rushing sound”] In a dive the eagle reaches great speed.

15

I continued to watch until the wings were plucked: We note that in the interpretation of the king’s dream nothing negative is stated. However, in Daniel’s own vision he sees the great speed of the lion lessened by the removal of its eagle’s wings. What Babylon was in its youth, with lion-like speed, is reduced to that of an upright human.

16

A human heart was given to the beast: NRS: and a human mind was given to it. This gives some humanity to a ferocious beast. From the heart of a lion to the heart of a human being. It seems possible that Nebuchanezzar’s experience in Daniel 4:1-34 changes some of the Babylonian violence into more humane treatment. According to Daniel’s record he continues to have good relations with the Babylonian dynasty throughout most of his 80 years in Babylon.

Daniel 2:39, 40 and 7:5 – Three More Kingdoms

Daniel 2:39a – Kingdom Number Two

DN2:39 Now following your kingdom there will arise another inferior kingdom. 17 {

17

Following your kingdom there will arise another inferior kingdom: This is put gently to the king. The word “kingdom” may suggest that the head of gold is more than just Nebuchadnezzar and includes the Babylonian dynasty. As silver is less valuable than gold so the next world power in the Mediterranean Sea area is stronger in material but of less value. The combined power of Media and Persia will overthrow Babylon by the two kings Darius the Mede and Cyrus the Persian. This will occur around 540 BCE. That moment is recorded in Daniel 5:1-30. It is also foretold by Jeremiah and Isaiah. (Isaiah 21:2, 9; Isaiah 44:26-45:7 Research the words Babylon and Chaldean.

DN7:5 And, look! a second beast like a bear. 18 It rose up on one side 19 with three ribs between its teeth. 20 This is what they tell the bear-beast, 21 “Rise and devour much flesh!”}

18

A second beast like a bear: [Bear = Hebrew: DOHV; Greek: ARKOS] The “bear” is Medo-Persia. Though the bear and lion are about equal in strength, a lion with a human heart is easy prey to the bear, particularly the grizzly. (Compare Amos 5:19 and Lamentations 3:10; 2 Samuel 17:8; Proverbs 17:12; Proverbs 28:15; Hosea 13:8)

19

It rose up on one side: Some see the suggestion that one of the two powers Media and Persia would dominate which is actually what happen as Persia took the ascendancy. Note their association as late as Acts 2:9. Darius the Great calls himself "a Persian, son of a Persian, an Aryan, of Aryan seed." [History of the Persian Empire, by A. Olmstead, 1948, page 231] This possibly would make him a descendent of Japheth. (Genesis 10:2) See historical notes in (Herodotus, I, 107, 108; Cyropaedia, I, ii, 1. History of the Persian Empire, page 37 reports: "The close relationship between Persians and Medes was never forgotten. Plundered Ecbatana remained a favorite royal residence. Medes were honored equally with Persians; they were employed in high office and were chosen to lead Persian armies. Foreigners spoke regularly of the Medes and Persians; when they used a single term, it was the Mede.” For Persia’s relationship with Israel see the books Nehemiah and Esther.

20

Three ribs between its teeth: Some see the emphasis on Persia’s greed in devouring lands. Wesleys Notes: “Another beast - The Mede's and Persians, a fierce, ravenous creature. On one side - The north side; for the Mede first arose and sent to Cyrus the Persian to come and assist him against the Assyrian. Three ribs - Several of the Babylonian subjects revolted, and all these made the three ribs.” Possibly the three directions of conquest: north, south, and west; Babylon, Egypt, Macedonia.

21	This is what they tell the bear-beast: Who are “they”? It seems possible this may include such demon-princes like those mentioned in Daniel 10:13. (Ephesians 6:12; see notes on EP6:12)

Daniel 2:39b and 7:6 – Kingdom Number Three

DN2:39b Then a third kingdom of copper will rule the whole world. 22 {

22	A third kingdom of copper will rule the whole world: Understood by many throughout the centuries to be Greece.

DN7:6 Next as I continued to watch, look! a [third] beast like a leopard 23 but with four wings of a bird 24 on its back. This third beast had four heads 25 and it possessed great rulership.}

23

A (third) beast like a leopard: [Hebrew: NAMER; Aramaic: NEMAR; Greek: PARDALIS].Or, Greece. Some consider the leopard as the greatest of the predators for it hunts alone, unlike the lion. What it lacks in size it makes up with speed and usually only hunts at night. Wesleys Notes: “Like a leopard - This leopard was the Grecian monarchy; a leopard is less than a lion, so was this monarchy at first, but yet durst fight with a lion; so did Alexander encounter Darius with an inferior force. A leopard also for his swiftness; therefore described with four wings on his back. Four heads - He was succeeded by four of his chief commanders, who divided that empire into four parts.” The military tactics of Alexander were unique and designed to deal with larger opponents. (Jeremiah 5:6; Hosea 13:7; Habakkuk 1:8) It is important to note these three beasts and their orders: 1) lion; 2) bear; and, 3) leopard. This is the view of Daniel looking forward. Now consider John’s view in retrospect and the order in Revelation 13:2 -- 1) leopard; 2) bear; and, 3) lion.

24	Four wings of a bird: Possibly to emphasize its speed and universal direction of attack.

25

This third beast had four heads: It is well known that following the death of Alexander Greece was divided up by his four generals. Seleucus Nicator ruled Mesopotamia and Syria. Cassander had control over Macedonia and Greece. Egypt and Palestine made up the domain of Ptolemy Lagus.Lysimachus took over Thrace and Asia Minor. [For details see below.]

Daniel 8:20-22 – Details Regarding the Second and Third Beasts

{DN8:20 The ram you beheld having the two horns 26 represents the kings of Media and Persia.

26	Two horns: Indicating a dual-world power. The “horn” is a symbol for power and in this rendering often translated as “power” to make this clear to a modern reader. Deuteronomy 33:17; Daniel 7:24; 8:2-10, 20-24; Zechariah 1:18-21; Luke 1:69-71; Revelation 13:1, 11; 17:3, 12)

DN8:21 And the hairy he-goat represents the king of Greece; and as for the great horn that was between its eyes, it represents the first king. 27

27

The first king: Understood by centuries of scholars to be Alexander the Great. The detail is so exact that many skeptics wish to place to composition of Daniel after the Third Century BCE. (some 160-130 BCE) However, the book is found in the Dead Sea Scrolls which is dated about 300-250 BCE. Josephus records that when Alexander approached Jerusalem the high priest went out to meet him and showed him the prophecy in Daniel. As a consequence Jerusalem was spared and Alexander ordered the translation of the Jewish Hebrew Scriptures into the common Greek of his troops. (Jewish Antiquities, XI, 337 [viii, 5]). "When the book of Daniel was shown to him, in which he [Daniel] had declared that one of the Greeks would destroy the empire of the Persians, he believed himself to be the one indicated; and in his joy he dismissed the multitude for the time being, but on the following day he summoned them again and told them to ask for any gifts which they might desire." [Antiquities of the Jews, Book XI, chapter VIII, paragraph 5] Historian Charles Rollin writes in Ancient History: "The high-priest, afterwards, showed him those passages in the prophecy of Daniel, which are spoken of that monarch. . . . We may easily figure to ourselves the great joy and admiration with which Alexander was filled, upon hearing such clear, such circumstantial, and advantageous promises. Before he left Jerusalem, he assembled the Jews, and bid them ask any favor whatever." If this be accurate the time of writing of Daniel would have been before 332 BCE when Alexander died.

DN8:22 After that first king has been shattered, 28 there were four that rose in his place, 29 there are four kingdoms from this nation that will arise, but not with his power. 30}

28	After that first king has been shattered: Alexander died suddenly in his 30s from malaria about 332 BCE.

29

There were four that rose in his place: Alexander’s four generals. Seleucus Nicator ruled Mesopotamia and Syria. Cassander had control over Macedonia and Greece. Egypt and Palestine made up the domain of Ptolemy Lagus. Lysimachus took over Thrace and Asia Minor. “So Alexander, a small king, of a small kingdom, Macedon, attacked Darius at the head of the vast empire reaching from the Ægean Sea to the Indies. In twelve years he subjugated part of Europe, and all Asia from Illyricum and the Adriatic to the Ganges, not so much fighting as conquering [JEROME]. Hence, whereas Babylon is represented with two wings, Macedon has four, so rapid were its conquests. The various spots denote the various nations incorporated into his empire [BOCHART]; Or Alexander's own variation in character, at one time mild, at another cruel, now temperate, and now drunken and licentious.” [Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset and David Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871)]

30	Not with his power: Alexander the Great is a unique person in history, born when a comet crossed the sky, he lived just so -- a great but brief flash -- an epic life worthy of books and movies.

Daniel 2:40 – Kingdom Number Four

DN2:40 Regarding the fourth kingdom – it will be strong as iron. 31 For just as iron grinds and pulverizes everything, just so like crushing iron, this fourth kingdom will smash and subdue all these other kingdoms. {

31

Regarding the fourth kingdom -- it will be strong as iron: For centuries, indeed from the time of the early church fathers, this has been understood to be Rome. Wesley’s Notes: “A fourth beast - The Roman empire.” “Whereas the three former kingdoms were designated respectively, as a lion, bear, and leopard, no particular beast is specified as the image of the fourth; for Rome is so terrible as to be not describable by any one, but combines in itself all that we can imagine inexpressibly fierce in all beasts. Hence thrice (Daniel 7:7, 19, 23) it is repeated, that the fourth was ‘diverse from all’ the others.” [Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset and David Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871)]

DN7:7 Next as I continued to watch in my night-visions, look! a fourth beast, fierce, awe-inspiring and unusually powerful. The fourth beast had huge iron teeth. The fourth beast was devouring and pulverizing, and whatever remained it trod underfoot. This fourth beast had ten horns 32 and was completely different from the previous [three] beasts. 33

32	Ten horns: Horn is a metaphor for power of a lesser kingdom. Ten is often a symbol of “all” or a totality. However, later three of these ten are mentioned creating the possibility that these “ten” are identifiable as real individual powers. Note the ten horns in researching Revelation.

33

The previous three beasts: Babylon (gold/lion), Persia (silver/bear), and Greece (copper/leopard). The word “previous” is rendered from the Aramaic QODAM (QEDEM) and may mean either “in front of” or “from before” (or, aforetime). The LXX uses EMPROSTHEN which is also used in the same manner. LXX: that were before it; NJB: the previous beasts; JPS: the other beasts which had gone before it.

DN7:19 Then it was that I desired to make certain concerning the fourth beast, 34 which proved to be different from all the others, extraordinarily fearsome, the teeth of which were of iron and the claws of which were of copper, which was devouring and pulverizing, and which trod underfoot anything remaining.

34

Fourth beast: The Roman Empire. Pocket History of the World, H. G. Wells: "This new Roman power which arose to dominate the western world in the second and first centuries B.C. was in several respects a different thing from any of the great empires that had hitherto prevailed in the civilized world." (1943, p. 149) For details on the history of Rome see Gibbon’s Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire; Will Durant’s Caesar and Christ; National Geographic articles on Rome. (c1997) H. G. Wells, Outline of History.

DN7:23 This is what the angel said, “As for the fourth beast, there is a fourth kingdom 35 that will come to be on the earth, that will be different from all the other three kingdoms; 36 and it will swallow down all the earth, 37 trampling and pulverizing to dust.”}

35	Fourth kingdom: The Aramaic for “kingdom” is MALKUW [ וכלמ Strong’s # 4437] and may mean the royal government and the realm or territory of the king. The Greek LXX for “kingdom” is BASILEIA (BASILEIAS). See the angelic interpretation in Daniel 7:17.

36	Different from all the other three kingdoms: That is Babylon, Persia, and Greece.

37	It will swallow down all the earth: The extent of Rome’s empire included all the lands around the Mediterranean Sea into Europe, and as far north as Hadrian’s Wall in Scotland.

Daniel 7:15-17 – The Four Elements and Beasts Interpreted

DN7:15 Daniel: “Now my I was distressed very much because of the visions in my mind which frightened me. 38

38	I was distressed very much because of the visions in my mind which frightened me: Or, LXX: my spirit [pneuma] in my body trembled, and the visions of my head troubled me; NJB: deeply disturbed… alarmed; JBS: my spirit was disturbed… my kind alarmed. Compare Daniel 7:28.

DN7:16 So I approached one [the angels] standing before the Throne 39 and requested a truthful explanation for all of this. Then he began to tell me the exact interpretation of everything.”

39	I approached one the (angels) standing before the Throne: Daniel’s visionary position is in heaven and so real he can approach one of the myriads standing before God’s Throne. See Daniel 7:9. How this position bears on Daniel 7:13 will be explained.

DN7:17 [The Angel said:] “Regarding these four gigantic beasts – because there are four there are four kingdoms which will arise in the earth. 40

40

Four kingdoms which will arise in the earth: Just as there were four metallic elements and four beasts the angelic interpretation is that the time of Daniel to the establishment of God’s Kingdom there would be four kingdoms or world empires around the Mediterranean Sea. The Aramaic text for “kingdoms” is MELEK and is literally “kings.” [ אכלמ Strong’s # 4430] Some versions render this “kings.” (IB, KJV) The Greek LXX is BASILEIAI and is rendered “kingdoms” in Bagster’s Septuagint. In Revelation “kings” are BASILEIS, BASILEON. In the Christian Bible “kingdoms” is from the Greek BASILEIAS (Matthew 4:8). Some versions render the word here in Daniel 7:18 as “kingdoms.”. (JPS, footnote “kings”; LXX) Are these limited to “four kings” or “four kingdoms”? Judging from Daniel 7:23 (BASILEIAS) these are “kingdoms” or dynasties which, unlike God’s Kingdom, have been passed along to others. Compare BASILEIAS at Daniel 2:44. [The language does not necessarily rule out another “kingdom.”]

Daniel 7:9-12 – Time of Judgment on the Four Kingdoms

DN7:9 I continued to watch 41 until a [majestic] throne 42 was placed and the Ancient of Days 43 sat down. 44 His garment was snow-white, and His hair as bright clean wool. 45 His throne was a blaze of flames 46 and its wheels 47 were a burning fire.

41	I continued to watch: The prophetic moment is during the world empire of Rome, the fourth kingdom.

42

A Throne: Though it is plural in both Aramaic and Greek some believe this is a plural of majesty and refers to the single Throne of the Most High. It is suggested by the following phrase, “and the Ancient of Days sat down.” (Daniel 7:9, His throne) The Aramaic is KORCE’ (Strong’s # 3764 -- Used like the Hebrew KISSE’ with an inserted liquid consonant.) and is used of a single throne at Daniel 5:20. However, it is possible these include two thrones. There are Biblical reasons for this understanding which will follow.

43	The Ancient of Days: A unique designation applied to the Most High. (Daniel 7:22) Compare Psalm 90:2 and Habakkuk 1:12. NJB: one most venerable

44

Sat down: Taking up the judgment-seat. Compare Revelation 3:21. With Daniel 7:13, 15 we have an indication that someone else will share in thus judgment upon Rome and the other three world-governments. At some moment during the world-government of Rome a judgment will take place involving the four kingdoms: Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome. These must still be functioning rulerships at this time. (Daniel 2:44)

45

His garment was snow-white, and His hair as bright clean wool: Psalm 104:2, “(Yehowah) clothes himself with Light as a robe.” Note that the Son of Man following his ascension to heaven is similarly described at Revelation 1:13, 14. The Son is the image of His Father. (Colossians 1:15; Hebrews 1:2, 3; compare also Matthew 17:2; Mark 9:3) It should be noted the celestial Saints are also so clothed. (Revelation 19:8) All the imagery assures a pure and just judgment.

46

His throne was a blaze of flames: Compare the images in Revelation 4:3, 6 and Revelation 15:2. We feel it fair to draw a parallel between the same prophetic moment of Daniel and John’s visions of the Throne-room of the Almighty. (Revelation chapters 4 and 5) Our eyes of imagination are overcome with yellows, oranges, and reds reflecting off the interior of the Throne-room. John reports Light with mixed colors of diamond, blood-red, and emerald. (Revelation 4:3)

47	Wheels: God’s throne is not fixed and stationary as though limited in movement. His lofty Throne may move as He wills. None can hide from His judgment. Compare Ezekiel 1:16, 19, 20, 21; 10”9, 12, 13, 16, 19; 11:22.

DN7:10 A stream of fire poured forth from His presence. 48 There were hundreds of thousands who continued to serve Him 49 and millions remained standing in His presence before the judgment-seat. 50 Now books were opened. 51

48	A stream of fire poured forth from His presence: Compare Deuteronomy 4:24; 9:3; Psalm 50:3; Psalm 97:3; Hebrews 10:27; Hebrews 12:29. His judgment purifies and consumes those opposed. Note Malachi 3:2; 4:2.

49	Who continued to serve Him: The Bible portrays hundreds of thousands and millions of celestial creatures serving before the Throne of the Almighty. (Deuteronomy 33:2; 1 Kings 22:19; Psalms 68:17; Jude 14; Revelation 5:11) Daniel is among them in his vision. (Daniel 7:15)

50

Before the judgment-seat: The Aramaic is DINA’ and the Greek CRITERION. Or, NJB: the court was in session; JPS: the court sat; LXX: the judgment sat. (Note 2 Corinthians 5:10.) At this moment in the reign of the fourth beastly kingdom of iron the Great Judge of all the earth renders His decision regarding Rome. (Genesis 18:25)

51

Now books were opened: Theses are the heavenly logs of the four kingdoms: Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome. The phrase in Greek is KAI BIBLOI ENEOCHTHESAN which is echoed in Revelation 20:12, KAI BIBLIA ENOICHTHESAN. Like governments and nations, individuals also must be judged on their life record. (Matthew 12:36; Romans 2:6, 15, 16; Revelation 20:12) These beasts are something of abstractions like IBM or the Ford Motor Company. These world-powers, though dominated by certain key individuals throughout their histories, are composed of many persons who affected the nation for good or bad. Rome’s history is damning in itself. However, a particular crime of enormous proportions is enough to curse Rome’s future. Rome becomes responsible for the execution of Messiah. Some prophetic details on this are given in Daniel 9:24-27: “Seventy weeks (of years) [490 years] have been determined upon your people and upon your Holy City (Jerusalem) -- for putting an end to sin, to seal up transgression, and to blot out iniquities, and to make atonement for transgressions, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal the vision and the Prophet, and to anoint the holiest of all. And you should know and understand that from the issue of the command to rebuild Jerusalem until the royal Messiah will be [483 years: 455 BCE to 29 CE]. …Now after the 483 years the Messiah will be destroyed [JPS: disappear and vanish]. …And during [seven years] He will establish the [Abrahamic] covenant with many [Jews]. Now in the middle of these [seven years] My sacrifice and drink-offering will be taken away.” In brief this prophecy foretells the arrival of Messiah in the year 29 CE (compare Luke 3:1) with a brief ministry of three and a half years. Jesus the Nazarene was executed in the fourth year of his ministry in the spring of 33 CE. The Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles place the blame at the feet of the Jews and the Romans. “The seventy weeks extend to A.D. 33. Israel was not actually destroyed till A.D. 79, but it was so virtually, A.D. 33, about three or four years after Christ's death, during which the Gospel was preached exclusively to the Jews.” [Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset and David Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871)] “The seventy weeks mean a day for a year, or 490 years. About the end of this period a sacrifice would be offered, making full atonement for sin, and bringing in everlasting righteousness for the complete justification of every believer. Then the Jews, in the crucifixion of Jesus, would commit that crime by which the measure of their guilt would be filled up, and troubles would come upon their nation. All blessings bestowed on sinful man come through Christ's atoning sacrifice, who suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God. Here is our way of access to the throne of grace, and of our entrance to heaven. This seals the sum of prophecy, and confirms the covenant with many; and while we rejoice in the blessings of salvation, we should remember what they cost the Redeemer. How can those escape who neglect so great salvation!” [Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary] Psalm 2 (quoted by Peter and Paul) points to a period of judgment at this time. Psalm 2:10-12, “So now, you kings [including Rome], come to your senses, you earthly rulers [including Caesar], learn your lesson! In fear be submissive to Yahweh; with trembling kiss his feet, lest he be angry and your [Roman] way come to nothing, for his fury flares up in a moment.” (NJB) See Peter’s application of this psalm at Acts 4:24-27 and Paul’s at Acts 13:33. If Jesus had told Pilate that within three hundred years Christianity would be the official religion of the Roman Empire and that Caesar would claim to follow Christ, that Roman governor would not have believed it. Nor would be believe that the Christian Church was a the root of the ultimate collapse of the Empire.

DN7:11 I continued to watch at that moment because of the boasting sound as the Small Power spoke. 52 I continued to watch until the [fourth] beast was put to death and its body destroyed. 53 The [fourth beast] was committed to be burned up in flames of fire. 54

52

Because of the boasting sound as the Small Power spoke: Daniel is observing future human history over a long time in bursts of prophetic moment. He has beheld the rise of the fourth world-government and then a Small Power which is partly identified by the manner or content of certain words. We are not told exactly what these are though if we accept that Revelation 13:6 is an allusion to this verse, then the braggadocio is blasphemous and directed at God, His Name, and everyone residing in heaven. (Daniel 7:25)

53

I continued to watch until the (fourth) beast was put to death and its body destroyed: There is the tendency to think this puts the Small Power before Rome, however, it becomes clear that the Small Power arises after the Fourth Beast is slain. See following verses and notes. It is what the Small Power spoke that caught Daniel’s attention in this historical epitome. This predicts that the judgment does not go well for Rome and as a consequence the world-government will come to an end though social, cultural, political, military, architectual influences may continue.

54	Burned up in flames of fire: Rome is exterminated in time. From its height during the Pax Romana something will happen to bring down one of the mightiest powers in human history. What will cause this is inferred in the prophecy and how it will happen is reduced to the simplest of factors.

DN7:12 However, the remaining three beasts had their world-government removed 55 but their lives were lengthened for appointed times. 56

55

Three beasts had their world-government removed: During this grand sweep of history Daniel sees that Babylon, Persia, and Greece come to the end of their rulerships around the Mediterranean Sea. Each was conquered by a succeeding power. This does not prove true in the same historical sense in the case of Rome.

56

Their lives were lengthened for appointed times: Unlike Rome which is predicted to disappear as an empire. The other three kingdoms -- Babylon, Persia, and Greece -- are to continue as contemporary nations throughout the period that follows the demise of Rome. Today, around the year 2,000, all three are functioning powers on the world scene: Iraq, Iran, and Greece.

Daniel 2:44a and 7:13, 14 – The Kingdom of God Set Up

DN2:44 And during the time of those [four] kings 57 The Heavenly God will raise up a Kingdom 58 that will never be destroyed. {

57

During the time of those (four) kings: While these four kingdoms were contemporary and functioning entities. Therefore, during the period of the Roman rule before its demise. These are not individual “kings” but “kingdoms” (dynasties or empires) as Daniel 2:44’s final phrase shows. The Greek for “kings” is BASILEON and they have all been called “kingdoms” in Daniel 2:39, 40. It is during this period when all four kingdoms exist, the fourth being the dominate world government, that something of great historical moment will occur by the hand of The God. (HO THEOS)

58

The Heavenly God will raise up a Kingdom: Perhaps one of the most monumental announcements in the entire Bible: the time when God establishes or sets up a Kingdom of His own choosing. It is by His own universal sovereignty that He judges one human being as worthy to rule from heaven. Note how the timing for this occurs in Daniel’s vision at the same moment: during the reign and judgment of the fourth beastly kingdom, Rome.

DN7:13 I continued to observe in my night visions, 59 and, look! with the clouds of the Sky someone like a Son of Humankind was arriving. 60 He was brought to the Ancient of Days. 61 The angels brought him into the Presence of the One. 62

59

I continued to observe in my night visions: In Daniel’s own vision the prophetic moment is during the history of Rome before it is slain. The context of Daniel’s vision places this moment while all four kingdoms exist contemporaneously. Remember his location in the vision is heavenly. Daniel 7:13 is a verse often referenced or alluded to in the Christian Bible.

60

With the clouds of the Sky someone like a Son of huhumankind was arriving: Daniel views from his heaven-high vantage point. (Daniel 7:15) The Greek word OURANOU (Uranus) is generally translated “heaven” in English though it is also rendered “Sky” by some. The word “heaven” may be limited to the Sky or atmosphere as it is in Genesis 1:7, 8. It is in this “heaven” that clouds form in the water envelope which surrounds the earth. Thus, Daniel sees someone approaching his view-point, leaving the earth and rising through the cloudy atmosphere toward his position there among the heavenly throngs. Many have now seen images taken of the earth from high satellite positions and with our imagination we see someone rising from the earth, passing through the cloud layer and approaching us. Who is this? Daniel describes the person as “a Son of huhumankind.” The Greek is HUIOS ANTHROPON or “son of an anthropod” (anthropic child). The designation is usually rendered “son of man.” Both Daniel and Ezekiel are called “son of man.” (Daniel 8:17; Ezekiel, 95 times) The phrase is used of Jesus Christ and occurs 83 times in the Gospels. (Matthew 31; Mark 14; Luke 25; John 13) Judging from Hebrew versions (Aramaic: KEVAR' ENASH; Hebrew: UVEN´ADHAM) at Job 16:21 and Job 25:6 the phrase means essentially “human being.” The Fourth Century CE Latin Vulgate by Jerome used hominid. So, Daniel says, “I watched as someone like a human-being approached heaven.” Jesus himself refers to this moment at John 6:62, “What if you beheld the Son of Huhumankind ascending to where he was formerly?” Stephen has his own near-death vision when he reports, “Behold, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Huhumankind standing at the right hand of The God.” (Acts 7:57) The Nazarene also borrows from Daniel 7:13 on several interesting occasions: a) Early in his ministry when he sends out his apostles to preach, Jesus tells them, “I tell you all, you will never complete all the cities of Israel before the Son of Huhumankind arrives.” (Matthew 10:23) Clearly he seems to mean they will not finish this preaching assignment before Daniel 7:13 is fulfilled. b) Before the Transfiguration he tells his apostles, “I tell you this truth: some of those standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Huhumankind arriving in his kingdom.” Since this event would occur within a year Jesus infers Daniel 7:13 will be fulfilled within their life-time. And, c) Jesus tells the Jewish clergy including the high priests, “I tell you this: in the future you will see the Son of Huhumankind sitting at the right hand of The Power and arriving upon the clouds of the Sky.” (Matthew 26:64) In what maybe some Hebrew syntax or idiom Jesus tells these priests they will live to see the fulfillment of Daniel 7:13 and Psalm 110:1. This was fulfilled in a most interesting way because these priests were present when Stephen revealed his vision as mentioned above. (Note who was likely present at Acts 4:6; 6:12; 7:1, 54.) Paul borrows the phrase “son of man” from another source at Psalm 8:4 (HUIOS ANTHROPOU) in Hebrews 2:6 and applies it to the crowned Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 2:9) The designation “son of man” is also used in Psalm 80:15 (79:15 LXX), “…the son of man (huion anthropou) whom You strengthened for Yourself.” A Jewish Targum notes here, “king (Messiah) anointed (Christ).” The Book of Revelation also points to Jesus as the “Son of Huhumankind” in contextual language borrowed from Daniel 7:9, 10, 13. Revelation 1:13, “…and in the middle of the seven lampstands someone like a Son of Huhumankind.” Revelation 14:14 echoes Daniel 7:13 completely: “And I saw and look! a white cloud and sitting upon the cloud someone like a Son of Huhumankind having upon his head a crown of gold.” The essential phrase in Greek is the same as that at Daniel 7:13 with the “crown” inferred by Daniel 7:14. Daniel states this human-like person was “coming” or “arriving.” The Aramaic word is METAW’ [ אטמ Strong’s # 4291; the Greek is ERCHOMENOS ( ερχομενος ) in the LXX and ELTHEN (ηλθεν) in Theodotion]. The word METAW’ is in the intransitive sense of being found present. (See parousia) The Greek forms may be rendered: leaving, arriving, coming, came. In other words, Daniel sees a human-like being arriving to become present in heaven after an absence on earth. (John 6:62; John 17:5; Ephesians 4:9) METAW’ is used for “reached” at Daniel 4:11, 20, 22; “came” (arrived) at Daniel 4:24, 28; 6:24. The use of METAW’ in Daniel 7:22 will be discussed in that verse.

61

He was brought to the Ancient of Days: Or, IB: he came; JPS: he reached; KJV (NJB): he came to. The word ‘athah [ התא Strong’s #858] is translated “came” or “brought (bring)” in Daniel (KJV). Note Daniel 3:13; 5:2, 3, 13, 23; 6:16, 17, 24. Who “brought” the Son of Huhumankind? It would include at least those angels of the ascension in Acts 1:9-11. (John 1:51) There is a three part process here: a) arriving to become present in heaven; b) brought by angels toward the Most High; and, c) present before the Ancient of Days. John gives the same vision in John chapter 4 and 5 where it is a newly slaughtered Lamb who is presented before the Throne of God Almighty.

62

The angels brought him into the Presence of the One: The angels are implied. The Aramaic is יהוברקה (QODAM = Strong’s # 6925, 6923-4 = in front of; come to meet; to come in front) [and they brought him near יהומדקו ( Q’REB, QARAB = Strong’s #7127, 7126 = to approach, come near, to be summoned ) [before Him]. Note that Q’REB (QARAB) is used of a sin offering at Ezra 6:10, 17; 7:17; and “came near” in Daniel 3:8, 26; 6:12, 20; compare Daniel 7:16. This subtlety cannot escape notice when compared to Revelation 5:6 and Hebrews 9:24. The Greek LXX has it KAI PROSENEKHTHE AUTO’; compare the PROSELTHON of Daniel 7:16. This is something of a PAROUSIA: the Son of Huhumankind arrives, approaches, and becomes present with the Almighty.

DN7:14 And to this Son of Humankind there were given government and dignity and a realm, 63 so that peoples, nations and languages should all serve him. 64 His government is an everlasting government 65 that will never pass away, 66 and his realm one that will never be brought to ruin. 67} That Kingdom will never be transferred to another people. 68

63

And to this Son of Huhumankind there were given government and dignity and a realm: Here is Daniel 2:44’s, “God will establish a kingdom.” The prophetic psalms foretell this momentous event. Psalm 2:2, 6, 7, “Earthly kings oppose and government officials gather against Yehowah and His Messiah (Anointed; Christ). … (I will tell them) ‘I have enthroned upon my holy Mount Zion the king of my choice.’ … Yehowah has said to me (the Messiah): ‘You are my Son. Today I have become your Father.’” Regarding the fulfillment of these verses compare the inspired applications by Peter and Paul. (Acts 4:24-27; Acts 13:33) Jesus Christ the Nazarene becomes King upon his ascension to the heavenly Throne-room of God. The other psalm is Psalm 110:1, “Yehowah said to my Lord (Messiah), ‘Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies as your footstool. … Go subdue all your enemies!” This verse is applied by Paul under inspiration to that moment when Christ ascends to heaven to rule as king waiting for all his enemies to be subjugated. 1 Corinthians 15:24, “For (Messiah) must rule as king until (The God) places all enemies under (Messiah’s) feet.” (Hebrews 1:5; 5:5; 10:12, 13) Daniel sees the Son of Huhumankind receiving a dignified celestial rulership along with the territory or domain of his rule. Paul describes the extent of this kingly power: “I also wanted you to realize the supreme magnitude of His power operating through we who believe. This power results from the highly controlled energy exercised when The God raised the Christ from the dead, enthroning him at His own right hand in the celestial realms [Psalm 110:1]. Christ reigns over every government, authority, dynasty and lordship. His entitlement ascends above every title ever given. This is so, not only now in this period of time but also in that New Age in the future. The God of our Lord subordinated the entire universe beneath Christ’s feet. [Psalm 110:3] The Father gave him complete control and leadership over his Body the Church in everything.” The primary “realm” or “dominion” of the King Messiah is over his own Church, those who have confessed him as Lord. (Romans 10:9, 10; Colossians 1:13) In time sin and death as the last enemies will be destroyed. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28) Wesley’s Notes: “A son of man - That is, the Messiah, he came with the clouds of heaven, gloriously, swiftly and terribly. And came - This relates to his ascension, at which time, he received his royal investiture, for the protection of his church, and curbing of their enemies.”

64

So that peoples, nations and languages should all serve him: Note the primary body of persons who first submit to Messiah’s reign at Revelation 5:9, “…with your blood you purchased people for The God out of every tribe, tongue, people, and nations.” Note that this later phrase is nearly identical in Greek to Daniel 7:14. So those people there described include the international body of Christian Saints throughout history. (Compare Revelation 7:9.)

65	His government is an everlasting government: This a real government or rulership not the mere domain in the believer’s heart. (Isaiah 9:6, 7; Psalm 72:8) The LXX uses, exousia, or authority.

66	That will never pass away: Unlike the four great world powers: Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome.

67

His realm one that will never be brought to ruin: The territory of the King, his realm, will include the earth and all the righteous subjects on it. (Psalm 72:8) That domain will never end or be ruined. (Psalm 37:9, 10, 27; Ecclesiastes 1:4) It will one day be peopled by the righteous from all peoples, nations, and languages. (Daniel 7:27; 1 Corinthians 6:2; Acts 17:31) The final goal: 1 Corinthians 15:29 -- “God is everything to everyone.”

68	That Kingdom will never be transferred to another people: Unlike the other dynasties and empires.

Summary

Daniel’s prophecy has taken us from the Babylonian dynasty through Persia and Greece and into the world empire of Rome. During the reign of this fourth world-government Daniel observes some one like a human being ascending to heaven. He watches as this “son of man” is led by angels into the Presence of the Most High there to receive his enthronement as God’s chosen king. This establishment of God’s kingdom by His Messiah occurred in the year 33 CE. Now the process of subjugation of all the Messiah’s enemies begins. The kingdom of God, that is the realm or dominion with its citizens on earth in the realm of profession, starts out like a tiny seed and grows to become a great tree. (Matthew 13:31, 32) Despite this miraculous growth an enemy infiltrates this domain and like a field with both wheat and weeds growing together, the whole of the realm becomes fermented with lawlessness. (Matthew 13:36-43; Matthew 13:33) However, what will happen to this fourth beastly kingdom of iron? What is the future for the earth’s nations and kingdoms? What will the finale be?

Daniel 2:41-43 – The Fragmentation of the Fourth Kingdom

DN2:41 Now just as you saw the [two] feet 69 and [ten] toes of potter’s clay and iron, 70 the kingdom will be divided though something of the iron hardness will remain just as you saw iron mixed with clay. 71

69	The (two) feet: Rome was first divided into East and West ruled over by two Caesars.

70

Ten toes of potter’s clay and iron: “(Isaac) NEWTON, who understands the Roman empire to be parted into the ten kingdoms already explains the "clay" mixture as the blending of barbarous nations with Rome by intermarriages and alliances, in which there was no stable amalgamation, though the ten kingdoms retained much of Rome's strength.” [Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset and David Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871)]

71

Iron mixed with clay: The iron hardness of Roman emperial rule and the softness or brittleness of lesser provinces or human weaknesses that limit the Roman rule. Wesley’s Notes: “Divided - Partly strong, and partly weak; the Roman kingdom was divided, partly by their civil wars, partly when conquered provinces and kingdoms cast off the Roman yoke, and set up king's of their own, and so the empire was divided into ten kingdoms or toes.” There is another view: the clay is the influence of Christianity on the Roman empire.

DN2:42 So just as the toes of the feet will be part iron and part clay, this kingdom will be both strong and breakable. DN2:43 Now just as you saw iron mixed with clay, just so they will also be mixed with human sperm. 72 And just as iron does not mix with clay they will not stick together. {

72

Iron mixed with clay, just so they will also be mixed with human sperm: (The Greek is SPERMA.)The iron is the hardness of Roman emperial rule and the clay the mixing of human seed, possibly in intermarriage within the widespread provinces of Rome. The influence of Christianity cannot be overlooked. Wesley’s Notes: “Mingle themselves - By marriage, but they shall never knit well together, because ambition is stronger than affinity. ”Matthew Henry: “The legs and feet of iron signified the Roman empire. The Roman empire branched into ten kingdoms, as the toes of these feet. Some were weak as clay, others strong as iron. Endeavours have often been used to unite them, for strengthening the empire, but in vain.” “(Isaac) NEWTON, who understands the Roman empire to be parted into the ten kingdoms already, explains the "clay" mixture as the blending of barbarous nations with Rome by intermarriages and alliances, in which there was no stable amalgamation, though the ten kingdoms retained much of Rome's strength. The "mingling with the seed of men" seems to refer to Genesis 6:2, where the marriages of the seed of godly Seth with the daughters of ungodly Cain are described in similar words. The reference, therefore, seems to be to the blending of the Christianized Roman empire with the pagan nations, a deterioration being the result. Efforts have been often made to reunite the parts into one great empire, as by Charlemagne and Napoleon, but in vain. [editor: and Russia’s Czar, Germany’s Kaiser, as well as Hitler’s attempt to restore the Third Reich] Christ alone shall effect that.” [Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset and David Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871)]

DN7:24 And as for the ten horns, 73 out of that [fourth] kingdom there are ten kings that will rise up; 74 and still another [eleventh] one will rise up after them, 75 and he himself will be different from the first [ten], 76 and three kings he will humiliate. 77

73

Ten horns: Judging from the fact that three of these ten can be felled or humiliated (leaving seven) it seems reasonable to understand this to be literal, while allowing for the symbolism of ten (all, complete). The word “horn” is a symbol for rule or power. (Deuteronomy 33:17; Daniel 7:24; 8:2-10, 20-24; Zechariah 1:18-21; Luke 1:69-71; Revelation 13:1, 11; 17:3, 12) Where Nebuchadnezzar dreamed of ten toes of iron and clay, Daniel sees ten kingdoms resulting from the fragmentation of the Roman Empire.

74

Out of that (fourth) kingdom there are ten kingdoms that will rise up: These ten kings (or, kingdoms) are featured in Revelation 12:3; 13:1; 17:3, 7, 12, 16. History reports on the fragmentation of Rome followed the Fourth Century into the Papal States of Europe: Britain, France, Germany, Russia, Spain, Holland, Austro-Hungarian, Slavs, Rumania, Italy -- one suggestion though others would work. Between the clay affect of Christianity and the “barbarians at the gate,” Rome dissolved in its death throes, slain as it were, and its body burned in the fire.

75

Still another (eleventh) one will rise up after them: After the Ten European Papal States rise following the Fifth Century at some future point another Power, an eleventh, will arise. We are not told how many centuries pass before the rise of this Small Power. We should note a point here in the teachings of the Nazarene. Near the end of Messiah’s ministry as the middle of the prophetic week drew near, some in his audience wondered if the Kingdom of God was imminent and would soon display itself. Jesus gave them a parable he would repeat shortly later to four of his apostles. When we combine these two parables they read like this: "A man of royal birth journeyed to a country far away in order to receive a kingdom for himself, and then after a long time, to return.” (Luke 19:12; Matthew 25:19) Jesus says the time between receiving the kingdom (Daniel 7:13) and returning would be “a long time.” Judging from the fragmentation of Rome into the Ten European Powers it would be many centuries.

76

He himself will be different from the first ten: In what way would this Small Power be “different” from the other ten fragments of the old Roman empire. We note with great interest that this Small Power is no where called a “king” or “kingdom” as the earlier Ten Powers are. This may be a clue that the Small Power is different in that it is not a monarchy and has no king. This suggests a different form of government, somewhat unique in human history. There was a former colony of Great Britain, apparently insignificant and incapable of defending itself, thousands of miles across the Atlantic (and no threat to the Ten European Powers) which proved to be very “different” -- America. It was to become a democratic republic with a “government of the people and for the people … all created equal … and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights.”

77

Three kings he will humiliate: This is described as “plucked up” or “fell” in parallel verses to be discussed below. Though wars and conflicts plagued the Ten European Powers, many related by blood, throughout the centuries, none actually replaced another. According to Daniel’s prophecy this Small Power with a different form of government will humiliate, pluck, and fell three of the Ten European Powers. Did this historical experience occur? In the mid to late 18th Century the east coast of America was dominated by Great Britain. Southern and middle portions of this great land were under the control and ownership of France. The western portion of the country facing the Pacific Ocean were the territories of Spain for centuries. Within the space of one century by revolution, naval battles, astute purchases and war all three European Powers -- England, France, and Spain -- were driven from America until the United States stretched from “sea to shining sea.”

DN7:8 I continued to examine the Powers, and, look! another Power, small and insignificant, rose among the Ten Powers, and there were three of the first Ten Powers plucked up from before the [eleventh] Small Power. And, look! there were eyes like the eyes of a man in this Small Power, 78 and there was a mouth speaking great thoughts. 79

78

There were eyes like the eyes of a man in this Small Power: “Eyes” may indicate far-sightedness or foresight. The human eye may indicate judgment (Genesis 19:14; Proverbs 12:15; Matthew 21:42), knowledge (Numbers 15:24), attention (Genesis 44:21; Luke 4:20), and even kindness. (Proverbs 28:27) Interestingly on the pyramid in the US dollar there is an all seeing eye. “Eyes express intelligence (Ezekiel 1:18); so the serpent's promise was, man's "eyes should be opened," if he would but rebel against God. (Genesis 3:5) [The Small Power] shall consummate the self-apotheosis, begun at the fall, high intellectual culture, independent of God. … Thus there is a progress in culture; but this is not a progress necessarily in man's truest dignity, namely, union and likeness to God. Nay, it has led him farther from God, to self-reliance and world-love. … The "mouth" and "eyes" are those of a man, while the symbol is otherwise brutish that is it will assume man's true dignity, namely, wear the guise of the kingdom of God (which comes as the "Son of man" from above), while it is really bestial, namely, severed from God. [The Small Power] promises the same things as Christ, but in an opposite way: a caricature of Christ, offering a regenerated world without the cross.” [Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset and David Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871)]

79

A mouth speaking great thoughts: The Small Power (America) referred to “manifest destiny” as though guided by God Almighty. America would “make the world safe for democracy” and create the League of Nations as “the kingdom of God.” This phrase here in Daniel begins to reflect something similar in Revelation 13:5, indeed, the Greek is the same, STOMA LALOUN MEGALA. (Daniel = STOMA LALOUN MEGALA) This give us a clue that the wild Sea Beast of Revelation chapter 13 is the same as the Small Power (America). Revelation 13:5, 6 explain these “great thoughts” as including “blasphemies against The God, the Name of God, His dwelling, and those who dwell in heaven.” Though some would interpret this kind of language in the American agenda already, it may also be something yet future on a level never foreseen. Note in Daniel 7:25, “he will insult the Most High.” (Revelation 13:6)

DN7:20 and concerning the Ten Powers that were on the Fourth Kingdom’s head, and the other [eleventh] Small Power that arose before which three of the Ten Powers fell, [who shall surpass all the earlier Ten Powers in evil] 80 even that Small Power that had eyes and a mouth speaking great thoughts and who was more impressive than the Ten Powers [its fellows]. 81}

80

Who shall surpass all the earlier Ten Powers in evil: Added in LXX. Some would already see this manifestation in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. No nation on earth ever vaporized thousands of persons in a second. However, this may leap forward to a much more critical time. There are reasons for thinking so.

81

Who was more impressive than the Ten Powers (its fellows): Or, LXX: its look was greater than its fellows. We note here the former Ten (European) Powers are described as “fellows” to the now so powerful Small (American) Power. This may infer a period of union and peace between former enemies. There is no question that as Christianity approaches the year 2,000 CE the American Power is unified with the main European States reflected in both the United Nations and NATO. No matter what their attitudes toward America most peoples and countries admit it is an “impressive” nation. Indeed, even Asia peoples struggle to imitate the West.

Summary

Following the execution, death, resurrection, and ascension of the Son of Humankind to heaven Rome was judged and condemned to be slain and burned. Rome fragments into its provinces that come under the power of Papal authority for a thousand years. During this period a new and different, apparently insignificant Small Power gains the ascendancy over its fellows, subduing three prominent powers of Europe. It is at this prophetic sequence that the Small Horn becomes very much identified with entities in the book of Revelation. The Small Power will figure greatly in a global oppression against the Saints of the Most High. This oppression of a numbered period of years will be followed by the Arrival (or, Parousia) of the Most High.

Daniel 7:21, 22, 25 – The Great Oppression and the Parousia

DN7:21 “I continued to watch while that Small Power made war against the Saints 82 and it was prevailing against them. 83

82

Small Power made war against the Saints: The Greek LXX has it, EPOIEI POLEMON META TON HAGION. This phrase is referenced in Revelation 11:7, “The wild (Sea) beast ascending out of the abyss will make war with them.” If we combine Revelation 13:7 we have the identical phrase in Daniel 7:21, POIESAI POLEMON META TON HAGION. We note this conflict between the beast and the Saints is also mentioned in Revelation 11:2, “The non-Jews will trample on the Holy City.” And, using the same phrase from Daniel 7:21, Revelation 12:17 has, “The Dragon … left to make war with [poiesai polemon meta ton] the remnant of the Woman’s Seed.” We will discover that this war is called a “great oppression” in Matthew 24:21 and Revelation 7:14 borrowing Greek words from Daniel 12:1. From this comparison it seems clear that the Small Power is identical to one of the Heads of the wild Sea Beast in Revelation 13 and 17. We will examine this in more detail. These “Saints” will prove to be the “remnant” of the New Israel, a large crowd of Christians alive at the moment of the Return of Christ. (1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17)

83

It was prevailing against them: It seems to Daniel that the Small Power is on the verge of victory over the Saints. Revelation 11:7 and Revelation 13:7 put it in even more desperate language: “The wild (Sea) beast that ascends out of the abyss will make war with the Saints and will conquer them and kill them.” This prophetic context makes the Small Power identical with one of the heads of the wild Sea Beast which is slain and yet revives and ascends out of the abyss. (Compare Revelation 17:8-10.) We will discuss this in detail.

DN7:25 And the Small Horn will blaspheme the Most High, 84 and he will oppress the Saints 85 of the Most High. And the Small Power will attempt to change times and law, 86 and the Saints will be turned over to him for a time, and times and half a time. 87 {DN12:1 And during that time Michael will Appear, 88 the great prince who rules the children of your people. 89 And there will certainly occur a great oppression 90 such as has not been made to occur since the nation [of Israel] came into existence. 91 DN12:2 And during that time [of great oppression] your people will be rescued, 92 every one who is found written down in the Book. 93}

84

The Small Horn will blaspheme the Most High: This language parallels that of one of the Heads of the wild Sea Beast in Revelation 13:6, “And (one of the Heads) of the wild Sea beast opened its mouth in blasphemies against The God, blaspheming His Name and His dwelling and those dwelling in heaven with Him.” This would seem to confirm that Daniel’s Small Power is identical to “one of the (seven) heads which was slain but revived.” (Revelation 11:7; 13:3; 17:8)

85

He will oppress the Saints: It seems clear this describes the “war” against the Saints. The Aramaic word BELA [אלבי = Strong’s #1080] is rendered by the KJV as “wear out” and others “harass” or “oppress.” NJB: torment. This seems the root for the “great oppression” of Revelation 7:14. The Greek PALAIOSEI may imply making something old or obsolete. That the Saints will be oppressed just prior to the resurrection, and paralleling the Appearance of Messiah, is shown both in Daniel 12:1, 2 and Matthew 24:29-31. (See notes on Daniel 12:1, 2; see notes on MT 24:29-31 in Nazarene Commentary.

86	The Small Power will attempt to change times and law: There are many opinions. Since the Small Power blasphemes God it would seem possible that this government wishes to change God’s times and laws. (See Daniel 2:21)

87

The Saints will be turned over to him for a time, and times and half a time: This time period called in Hebrew/Aramaic “a time, and times and half a time” occurs in Revelation 12:14 and is explained in Revelation 12:6 to be 1,260 days. This equals the 42 months of Revelation 11:2 and Revelation 13:7. The phrase means three and a half lunar years. The “great oppression” of Daniel 12:1 and Revelation 7:14 will last three and a half years. This happens to be the period of time between the fall of the year 66 and the spring of 70 CE when Jerusalem was destroyed. When Daniel later hears of this “time of trouble” in Daniel 12:1 he wonders how long it will be. (Daniel 12:6) He is told by an angel that it will be three and a half years. (Daniel 12:7) This period is later associated with 1,290 days.

88

During that time Michael will Appear: The KJV and other versions render this “Michael will stand up.” The Hebrew word ‘AMAD [ דמעי = Strong’s #5975 = to arise, appear, come on the scene] is rendered “appear” by the Jewish Publication Society’s Tanakh version. Compare this to Matthew 24:30. There are varied opinions on the identity of Michael. Early church fathers (as well as Jewish theologians) applied it to the Son of God, the Messiah. A comparison of the name and other related words leads to the conclusion that Michael (Who is like God?) is a heavenly name for Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17; Revelation 12:7) What “time” is this? The context continues from Daniel 11:40-45 which describe the struggle between a Roman “king of the north” and an Egyptian “king of the south.” It prophetically describes the movements of the Roman armies as they come against Jerusalem in 66 CE. For details read Josephus. He reports the Romans left Jerusalem moving south toward Egypt, overwhelming North Africa to Libya. In Libya General Titus receives messages from Rome to the north regarding Jerusalem to the east. He returns east and north to finish what he started three years before in Jerusalem. Jerusalem is destroyed in the spring of 70 CE. The Romans printed at least five annual coins to commemorate their “Jewish Wars” which finally came to an end with the conquest of Masada in the late spring of 73 CE. [Note the length of the 2,300 evenings and mornings from the fall of 66 to the spring of 73. (Daniel 8:14)] Did Michael appear with an accompanying resurrection in those years? It is unlikely for such is not reported. Some take the view that the “great oppression” upon Jerusalem and its Jewish chosen ones was but a small scale prophetic type of a greater oppression to come upon the Christian Church just before the Return of Christ. For details see commentary and notes on Matthew 24:20-31 (MT 24:29) in Nazarene Commentary (Gospel of Matthew; Nazarene Apocalypse). In Matthew 24:15-31 Jesus seems to do something similar: while discussing the tribulation against Jerusalem and its chosen ones he telescopes to that period prior to his Return or Parousia. It must be remember that the Nazarene admits he does not know the “day and hour” of his own Parousia. Therefore, in Matthew 24:15-31 he merely jumps from Jerusalem’s desolation to his foretold Return, using the “great oppression” as a pivot to the second important prophetic event. Therefore, from one standpoint Michael stands in behalf of Daniel’s people the Jews but will also Appear during that future moment of the “great oppression.”

89

The great prince who rules the children of your people: Since the exodus of Israel out of Egypt the “Angel of Yehowah” has represented God before His People as the “great prince.” (Numbers 23:20-23) Compare Michael and archangel at 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17; Jude 9; Revelation 12:7. Note “his angels” in Revelation 12:7 and Matthew 25:31.

90

There will certainly occur a great oppression: The Hebrew has “time of distress” (IB), “time of trouble” (JPS), “time of great distress.” (NJB) The Greek LXX uses THLIPSEOS which also occurs at Matthew 24:21 and Revelation 7:14. The Greek word comes from “press” or “squeeze” and thus the English “oppression” conveys the original thought. Judging from all the occurrences in Daniel, Matthew, and Revelation this “oppression” is not against the world but against God’s people: the Jewish Elect in the first case and the Christian Saints in the later.

91

Such as has not been made to occur since the nation (of Israel) came into existence: This is the rendering of the Jewish Publication Society’s Tanakh. Jesus paraphrases in his own words at Mark 13:19, “an oppression [thlipsis] of a kind which has not occurred from the beginning of creation which The God created untl now and will not occur again.” This could be understood in the context of Israel as the Jewish translation of Daniel 12:1. When Jerusalem was destroyed in 70 CE, Josephus reports a death-toll of over one million persons. Or, it may include that future “great oppression” against the Christian end-time Saints with an even greater death-toll.

92

During that time (of great oppression) your people will be rescued: Some render this “escape” or “delivered.” These are those Saints alive who survive the “great oppression.” Such a group are described in Revelation 7:9-17. There are many opinions but we believe this “large crowd” is the same as Paul’s “we the living who survive to the Parousia” (1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17), or Jesus’ “chosen ones” at Matthew 24:29-31. Jesus may allude to this “deliverance” at Luke 21:28. These are described as Daniel’s people who would be Jews. Judging from Romans 2:28, 29 and Romans 9:6, 7 these would seem to be “true Jews” of the “Israel of God.” (Galatians 6:16) This is just as Revelation 7:1-8 has it: 144,000 “OUT OF the twelve tribes of Israel.” See notes on the 144,000 in Nazarene Commentary CD-ROM or the online publication Nazarene Apocalypse.

93	Every one who is found written down in the Book: This may be a reference to the Christian Saints enrolled in heaven. (Luke 10:20; Philippians 4:3; Hebrews 12:23; Revelation 3:5; Revelation 21:27) It is interesting that Revelation 13:8 follows right on Revelation 13:7 which alludes to Daniel 12:1.

DN7:22 …until the Ancient of Days arrived 94 and the power of judgment was given to the Saints 95 of the Most High, and the appointed time arrived for the Saints to possess the Kingdom. 96 {DN12:2 And there will be many of those asleep in the ground of dust who will wake up, 97 some to everlasting life and some to shame and everlasting reproach. 98 DN12:3 And those Saints possessing wisdom will shine like the sun; 99 and those who bring many to righteousness, like the everlasting stars, 100 even forever.}

94

Until the Ancient of Days arrived: The Aramaic is ATTAH and the Greek ELTHEN. The later is the same as Matthew 24:46; Matthew 25:10, 27, 31; Mark 13:36. Though it is normally Jesus Christ, or the Son of Huhumankind, that is promised to Return (Second Coming) in a royal visit or Parousia, actually the Son represents the Father. Both are seen “arriving” (ELTHEN) at Revelation 6:16, 17. Compare Revelation 1:4, 8; 4:8; 16:15; 22:7, 12, 20. (2 Thessalonians 1:8-10) Just before his death Jesus Christ promised though he was returning to heaven he would come back and receive his disciples home to himself. (John 14:1-3) The Nazarene includes his Father in this. (John 14:23) This phrase in Daniel 7:22 is possibly the source for parousia and the foretold Return. (Matthew 24:3, 27, 37, 39;1 Corinthians 15:23; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; 2 Thessalonians 2:1; 1 John 2:28) This arrival or Parousia in Daniel 7:22 occurs right at the end of the three and a half years of great oppression.

95	The power of judgment was given to the Saints: The Greek LXX is KAI TO KRIMA EDOKEN HAGIOIS and should be compared with Revelation 20:4, KAI KRIMA EDOTHE AUTOIS. “Them” in Revelation 20:4 are the “Saints” (HAGIOS) of 1 Corinthians 6:2 who will judge the world.

96

Time arrived for the Saints to possess the Kingdom: Jerome uses advent here. Surely 1 Corinthians 15:50-52 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 allude to this verse. (Matthew 24:31; Luke 21:31) These living Saints on earth who have “come out of the great oppression” are caught away (snatched; raptured) from harm’s way at the critical moment following three and a half years of persecution. Interestingly, Revelation 11:2, 11, 12 has the Saints being caught away to heaven just after the 42 months: “And (the Saints) heard a loud voice from heaven call, ‘Ascend up here!’ And (the Saints) ascended into the clouds of the Sky, and their enemies watched them.”

97

There will be many of those sleeping in the dust of the earth who shall awake: Contemporary or simultaneous with the rescue of the living Saints is the resurrection of the dead Saints. Jesus himself alludes to Daniel 12:2 at John 5:28, 29 where he conflates Isaiah 26:19 (LXX) and his own paraphrase of Daniel 12:2. Daniel says “many” while Jesus says “all.” These can be harmonized by understanding that Jesus means “all” those under consideration at Daniel 12:2. This is not humankind in general (Revelation 20:4-6; 1 Corinthians 15:22-24) but only those already written in the Book. Judging from the prophetic context and several allusions to Daniel 12:1-3 this is limited to the resurrection of the Saints at the Appearing of Messiah. The metaphor for death as sleeping is used throughout the Hebrew and Christian Bible. For details see the publication Where Are the Dead? in the CD-ROM Nazarene Commentary. Research asleep, sleeping or koimethentes . See 1 Corinthians 15:1-54. The earliest direct reference to a resurrection is in Job 14:12-15 (LXX), “A person who has died is completely gone. When a mortal falls he is non-existent. … A human who has fallen asleep in death shall not arise [ANASTE] until heaven is be dissolved [2 Peter 3:10, 11] nor will they awake from their sleep. O that You would hide me in Hades until Your wrath ends. Set a time limit and remember me! … I will wait (in death’s sleep) until I exist again.” (Compare Bagsters) See also in the LXX Job 42:17.

98

Some to everlasting life and some to shame and everlasting reproach: The whole phrase is paraphrased by Jesus in John 5:28, 29, “Those in the memoriums [Isaiah 26:19 LXX] will hear his voice and will come out: those who did good things [AGATHA] to a resurrection of life; those who were habitually vile [PHAULA] to a resurrection of condemnation.” How can we know Daniel 12:2 and John 5:29 deal with the resurrection of the Church and not humankind in general? Two other inspired writers are to allude to Daniel 12:2 (and, John 5:29) and apply the words to the parousia-judgment. Note first, 2 Corinthians 5:10 and how the language parallels these texts: “For it is a necessity all of us (Christians) must be made manifest before the judgment-seat of the Messiah so that each one of us (Christians) may receive due recompense for the things done in the body whether good things [AGATHON] or vile things [PHAULON].” Second, 1 John 2:28 and 1 John 4:17, “Now, little children, continue to abide in (Jesus) so when the time comes for him to be made visible we all might speak openly and freely at his Arrival and not experience embarrassment [AISCHYNTHOMEN] while standing before him. … in the day of judgment.” (NCMM) John here uses the same word used in Daniel 12:2, aischynen. A summary of this moment: upon the resurrection of the Christian Church all those who have confessed Jesus Christ as Lord will be judged upon the basis of their conduct in life. Those characterized by goodness will inherit everlasting life in the Kingdom of God. Those characterized by villainy will suffer shame and embarrassment before the judgment-seat and go off into eternal anhilation. “The righteous will then shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father.” (Matthew 13:43; Daniel 12:3) After reading Matthew 12:35-37 compare the parable of the wheat and weeds (Matthew 13:37-43 and the sheep and goats (Matthew 25:31-46). Research the word judgment in the Christian Bible.

99

Those Saints possessing wisdom will shine like the sun: Two criteria are mentioned in this context: a) possessing wisdom; and, b) leading others to righteousness. Clearly those described by Jesus as righteous were not just charitable and hospitable. They were characterized by wisdom. The phrase is alluded to by Jesus himself at Matthew 13:43. It seems clear Jesus is applying Daniel 12:1-3 to the parousia and the judgment which follows. The Greek LXX has the phrase here, KAI HOI SYNIENTES LAMPSOUSIN HOS HE LAMPOTES TOU STEROMATOS [Genesis 1:6-8 LXX]. Bagster’s renders this: “…shine as the brightness of the firmament.” Judging from the first use of STEROMATOS in Genesis 1:6-8 whether this shining is something visible in the Sky is left to personal interpretations. (Revelation 11:12, 13)

100

Those who bring many to righteousness, like the everlasting stars: As shown above those so glorified are seen to be wise as well as “bringing many to righteousness.” Here the parallel with “shine like the sun” is “like the stars [ASTERES].” So, both the atmosphere (firmament) as well as the stellar heavens are used as the example of glory. Compare 1 Corinthians 15:41.

DN7:18 [The angel said:] “However, the Saints of the Most High will possess the Kingdom for ever 101 – even for Eternity into Eternity.”

101	Saints of the Most High will possess the Kingdom for ever: The angelic conclusion given earlier. Despite all that occurs throughout history the Saints will triumph by the grace of God. Compare 1 Corinthians 15:50 with Matthew 25:34.

Summary

A political descendant of Rome will arise determined to make Christianity obsolete. However, at the moment of the highest danger – at the end of three and a half years of great oppression – God by the Son of Humankind will appear and come to deliver the surviving Saints. The King will judge his own Household, the Church, upon the resurrection. The righteous will shine in celestial light.

Daniel 2:44b, 45 and 7:26 – Global Kingdom Rule

DN2:44b [The God’s Kingdom] will crush and grind to powder, wiping out all these kingdoms. 102 [God’s Kingdom] will stand forever –

102

Kingdom will crush and grind to powder, wiping out all these kingdoms: In the context of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream the remnants of Babylon (now Iraq), Persia (now Iran), Greece, and Rome. The later including those fragmentary states resulting from the demise of Rome: the European nations and their commonwealths and colonies around the globe. Additionally, the Small Power which was so noted for its blasphemy against God and His People. It should be noted that these “kingdoms” are abstractions and though in some cases key individual were involved the destruction of these rulerships does not mean the end to all the peoples living at that momentous event. Indeed, Revelation 9:15 says, “And the Four Angels were released -- those prepared for the hour, day, month, and year to kill one third of humankind.”

DN2:45 just as you saw that Stone quarried out of the mountain without human hands and then pulverized the iron, copper, molded clay, silver and gold. {DN7:26 And the Judgment sat down, 103 and they removed the Small Power’s rule 104 so that they might annihilate and to completely destroy 105 the Small Power.}

103

And the Judgment sat down: This is a second time of Judgment, the other having occurred two millennia before. It is possible this judgment now includes the enthroned Son of Huhumankind and his Saints. (1 Corinthians 6:2; Daniel 7:22; Revelation 20:4) For details on this period of judgment see Revelation chapters 15-19.

104

They removed the Small Power’s rule: “They” are likely the Son of Huhumankind and his associate kings, the Saints. (Revelation 17:14) The Small Horn is contemporary with those Saints alive at the Return of Christ. Whoever this oppressive government turns out to be, it will come to its end along with all the other powers of history. (Revelation 19:11-16, 19-21)

105	Annihilate and to completely destroy: The Small Power comes to its complete end when the entire corporate image seen by Nebuchadnezzar collapses under the power of God’s Kingdom.