I) “Daniel’s Vision of the Ram and the He-Goat;” “The Time of the Vision.”
Daniel: Chapter 8;
1) Read: (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. KJV
1) Explanation; (Daniel 8:1); in verse one; the phrase, “In the third year of the reign of King Belshazzar” means that this vision was given some two years after the Vision of Chapter seven. Now consequently, this was not long before the overthrow of the Babylonian Empire, as described in chapter five. And so it was, chronologically, in both Chapters seven and eight preceded chapter six.
1) Comments: (Daniel 8:1); in verse one; in the third year of the reign of King Belshazzar a vision has appeared unto me. And Daniel might not be surprised at the destruction of Babylon, now at hand, God gives Daniel a foresight of the destruction of other kingdoms hereafter, which in their day had been as potent as that of Babylon.
1) Extra-Comments: (Daniel 8:1); in verse one; here Belshazzar became co-regent with Nabonidus in 553 B’C. Also Daniel was about 15 years old when he was exiled to Babylon. It was here that he would have received this vision in 550 B.C. when he was about 70 years old. Although the events in this chapter precede those described in Daniel five, and they are included here because of the literary focus on Israel in the times of the Gentiles.
2) Read: (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. KJV
2) Explanation; (Daniel 8:2); in verse two; Daniel saw in a vision; and when he saw the vision the Prophet Daniel said, that he was at Shushan in the palace, and what he saw in a vision, and he was at the river of Ulai. Also Shushan was the chief city of Persia.
2) Comments: (Daniel 8:2); in verse two; of Daniel, Shushan, or Susa, which was about 200 miles north-east of Babylon. Here we find that Daniel was at this time in Shushan, which appears to have been a strong place, where the kings of Persia had their summer residence. It was the capital of the province of Elam or the Elymais; which province was most probably added to the Chaldean territories by King Nebuchadnezzar; (Jeremiah19:34-35). And here was Daniel’s ordinary residence, here though at this time, he, in a vision, saw himself on the bank of the river Ulai. Also this is the same as the river Euleus, which divided Shushan or Susiana from Elymais. Please read the two verses in the books of (Nehemiah 1:1); and (Esther 1:2).
II) “The Ram: Medo-Persia”
3) Read: (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. KJV
3) Explanation; (Daniel 8:3); in verse three; “now there was a ram which had two horns,” this symbolized the Medo-Persian Empire, ruled by two kings, Darius of the Medes and Cyrus of Persia. “And the two horns were high,” this spoke of their power, which was great enough to overthrow the mighty Babylonian Empire, to which they had been subject for many years. The phrase, “But one was higher than the other and the higher came up last, pertains to Persia developing after the Median Empire, but ultimately growing into the stronger of the two.”
3) Comments: (Daniel 8:3); in verse three; here he saw a ram with two horns. Now this the second monarchy, of which the kingdoms of Medeia and Persia were two horns. And the horns were very high; but that which came up last was the higher, and got the start of the former. Also “the last shall be first, and the first last.” The kingdom of Persia, which rose last in Cyrus, became more eminent than that of the Medes.
4) Read: (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. KJV
4) Explanation; (Daniel 8:4); in verse four; the “ram” is used here by the Holy Spirit as symbolic of the great Empire of the Medes and the Persians. “Now I saw the ram pushing westward,” this refers to an event of the recent past, the taking of Babylon). “And northward,” this refers to Lydia, while “southward” refers to Egypt.
4) Comments: (Daniel 8:4); in verse four; here he this ram pushing all about him with his horns, Daniel said he was pushing westward, (toward Babylon, Syria, Greece, and Asia the less), also (northward towards the Lydians, Armmenians, and Scythians), and (southward towards Arabia, Ethiopia, and Egypt). And for all these nations did the Persian Empire, at one time or another, make attempts upon these nations for the purpose to enlarging of their dominion. But at last he became so powerful that no beast might stand before him. Also the ram, though of a species of animal often preyed upon, and he became formidable even to the beasts of prey themselves, so that there was no standing before him. There was no escaping him, and none that could deliver out of his hand, but all must yield to him.
III) “The he-Goat is Grecia”
5) Read: (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. KJV
5) Explanation; (Daniel 8:5); in verse five; the he goat was considering the ram and, behold, a he goat came. And this was Alexander the Great, the son of Philp, king of Macedonia. Also he came from the west, from Greece. And he did in effect conquer the world. He touched not the ground, so lightly did he move, that is, he met with little or no opposition. Now this he-goat, or buck, had a notable horn between his eyes. And he had strength, and knew his own strength. But Alexander pushed his conquests on so fast and with so much fury, that none had courage to make a stand against him.
5) Comments: (Daniel 8:5); in verse five; in Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, the Grecian Empire is represented by the “belly and thighs of brass.” Now in Daniels first Vision in chapter seven, a “leopard with four wings and also four heads” symbolized this Empire. Here in this Vision, it is symbolized by and “He Goat”. The phrase, “And touched not the ground,” this refers to the speed of Alexander’s conquests, which were symbolized in the first Vision by a leopard with four wings. Now in thirteen years! He conquered the whole known world. The “notable horn” this refers to its first king, Alexander the Great.
5) Extra-Comments: (Daniel 8:5); in verse five; Here we find out that,” this refers to the speed of Alexander’s conquests, which were symbolized in the first Vision by a leopard with four wings. And this was Alexander the Great; and a goat was a very proper symbol of the Grecian or Macedonian people. Also Bp. Newton very properly observes that, two hundred years before the time of Daniel, they were called Aegeda, the goat’s people; and the origin of which name is said to be as follows; Caranus, their first king, going with a multitude of Greeks to seek a new habitation in Macedonia, was advised by an oracle to take the goats for his guides. But afterwards, seeing a head of goats flying from a violent storm, he followed them to Edessa, and there fixed the seat of his empire. Also he made the goats his ensigns or standards; and he called this place Aege or Aegea, the goat’s town; and the people Aegeada, the goat’s people; the names which are derived from aul, acyos, a goat. The city Aege or Aegea, was the usual burying-place of the Macedonian kings; and in reference to this origin, and Alexander called his son by Roxana, Alexander Aegus, Alexander the goat. Now all this shows the very great propriety of the symbol here used. Now Europe lies westward of Asia. But on the face of the whole earth, they came carrying everything before him. And he seemed to fly from conquest to conquest. And by the time that Alexander was thirty years of age he had conquered all Asia; and, because of the rapidity of his conquests, he is represented as a leopard with four wings, in the preceding vision.
IV) “War: Medo-Persia and Grecia”
6) Read: (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. KJV
6) Explanation; (Daniel 8:6); in verse six; the fury of his power,” portrays the speed of his conquests and the ferociousness of his attack, plus military strategy that completely overwhelmed the much larger force of the Medes and the Persians
6) Comments: (Daniel 8:6); in verse six; here we are told that this he-goat came to the ram that had two horns. But Alexander with his victorious army, which it consisting of no more than 30,000 foot soldiers and 5,000 horses, which Alexander attacked the kingdom of Persia.
6) Extra-Comments: (Daniel 8:6); in verse six; here this phrase, “and he came to the ram.” This and the following verse gives an account of the overthrow of the Persian Empire by Alexander. And they ran unto him in the fury of his power and the conflicts between the Greeks and the Persians were excessively severe. Alexander first vanquished the generals of Darius, at the river Granicus, in Phrygia; and the he attacked and totally routed Darius, at the straits of Issus, in Cilicia; and afterwards at the plains of Arbela, in Assyria. Now one can hardly read these words, says Bp. Newton, “the ram in which I had seen standing by the river, ran unto him in the fury of his power,” without having the image of Darius’s army standing and guarding the river Granicus; and Alexander on the other side, with his forces plunging in swimming across the stream. It was here that Alexander was rushing on the enemy, with all the fire and fury that can be conceived.
7) Read: (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. KJV
7) Explanation; (Daniel 8:7); in verse seven; Here Alexander, with his army came up with Darius Codomannus, then the Emperor of Persia, and being moved with choler against him. But Alexander was too hard for him whenever he engaged him, and smote him and cast him down to the ground, and stamped upon him. Now here is the three expressions that some might think, and this refers to the three famous victories that Alexander obtained over Darius which was at Granicus, at Issus, and at Arbeia. But by which he was at length totally rooted, and having, in the last battle, and there were 600,000 men killed. Also Alexander became absolute master of all the Persian Empire and breaking his two horns which were the kingdoms of Media and Persia. Now these two kingdoms, which, when they had power, and they abused it. And because none could oppose them, may expect to have their power at length taken from them and to be served in their own kind in (Isaiah 33:1).
7) Comments: (Daniel 8:7); in verse seven; now as Daniel sees this, of course, it is yet future. The word “choler” means that Alexander was greatly angry at the Medo-Persians. Here he broke his two horns and subdued all of Persia and Media, he also sacked and burnt the royal city of Persepolis, the capital of the Persian Empire, and even in its ruins, and one of the wonders of the world to the present day. This he did because “he was moved with choler” against Darius, who had endeavored to draw off his captains with bribes, and had labored to induce some of his friends to assassinate him. When Alexander, did find this out, he would not listen to any proposals of peace; and was determined never to rest till he had destroyed Darius and his whole empire. Also in Media, Darius was seized and made prisoner by some of his own treacherous subjects, and afterwards he was basely murdered. There was no power in the ram to stand before him. Now Alexander’s victories over the Persians were as easy as they were rapid and decisive. But then he cast him down to the ground, and stamped upon him. The he totally destroyed the family, and overturned the whole monarchy.
V) “The Four Horns”
8) Read: (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. KJV
8) Explanation; (Daniel 8:8); in verse eight; now at the height of the goat’s power the great horn was broken. This refers to Alexander’s sudden death at the peak of his greatness in (323 B.C.). Here his kingdom was divided by four of his generals. And Cassander was over Macedon and Greece, and Lysimachus was over Thrace and Asia Minor, and Seleucus was over Syria and Babylon, and last was Ptolemy he was over Egypt.
8) Comments: (Daniel 8:8); in verse eight; And when he was strong, the great horn was broken, this refers to the untimely death of Alexander the Great in 323 B.C., Now when he was at the apex of his strength. He was 33 years old when he died. And for it came up four notable ones toward the four winds of heaven, this is referring to his kingdom being split into four parts upon his death.
8) Extra-Comments: (Daniel 8:8); in verse eight; (Alexander the he-goat waxed very strong and he had subdued nearly the whole of the then known world). Now the great horn was broken. But Alexander died in the height of his conquests, when he was about thirty-three years of age. His natural brother, Phillp Aridaeus, and his two sons, Alexander Aegus and Hercules, kept up the show and the name of the Macedonian Kingdom for a time. But they were all murdered within fifteen years; and thus the great horn, the Macedonian Kingdom, was broken, with Alexander’s family being now cut off. And for it came up four notable ones toward the four winds of heaven, this is referring to his kingdom being split into four parts upon his death. Now the regal family being all dead, the governors of provinces usurped the title of kings; and Antigonus, one of them, being slain at the battle of Issus, they were reduced to four, as we have already seen. First; came Seleucus, who had Syria and Babylon, from whom came the Seleucida, famous in history. Second; Lysimachus, who had Asia Minor. Third; Ptolemy, was the son of Lagus, who had Egypt, from whom sprang the Lagida. And fourth; was Cassandra, who had Greece and the neighboring countries. All these held dominion towards the four winds of heaven. So Cassandra had the western parts, and Lysimachus had the northern regions, Ptolemy possessed the southern countries, and Seleucus had the eastern Provinces.
VI) “The “Little Horn:” “Antichrist:
9) Read: (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. KJV
9) Explanation; (Daniel 8:9); in verse nine; here Israel was attacked by Antiochus IV Epiphanes (the small horn) in the second century B.C. And he was the eighth ruler of the Seleucid Empire (Babylon and Syria). Now he overthrew Israel’s high priest, and looted the temple. And he replaced the worship of God with a Greek form of worship. And there was a further fulfillment of this prophecy of a powerful horn will occur in the future with the coming of the Antichrist. Please read these scriptures; (Daniel 8:17); and (Daniel 8:19-23); and (Daniel 11:36); and (II Thessalonians 2:4).
9) Comments: (Daniel 8:9); in verse nine; “And out of one of them came forth a little horn,” this refers to the future Antichrist coming out of one of these four divisions of the old Grecian Empire. “Toward the south” refers to Egypt; “toward the east” this refers to Syria, Iraq, and Iran; “toward the pleasant land refers to Israel.” Now from this area, the Antichrist will make his bid for world dominion.
10) Read: (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. KJV
10) Explanation; (Daniel 8:10); in verse ten; “And it waxed great, even to the host of heaven,” this refers to the “little horn” Here the Antichrist will break his seven-year Covenant with Israel, which Daniel speaks of in a future Vision in (Daniel 9:27) and actually declaring war on Israel at that time, seeking to destroy her. This is symbolized by the phrase, “And it (little horn)”, did cast down some of the host and of the stars to the ground, and stamped upon them.” Here this referring to Israel being defeated at that time, which is yet future.
10) Comments: (Daniel 8:10); in verse ten; and (in my vision this horn), grew great, even against the host of heaven (God’s true people the saints), and some of the host and of the stars (priests) it cast down to the ground and trampled on them. Here the host of Heaven, which is the Jewish hierarchy and the stars, the priests and Levites. Also the powers or the host of Heaven are probably intended by our Lord in (Matthew 26:29); to signify the whole Jewish hierarchy. “And it (little horn)”, did cast down some of the host and of the stars to the ground, and stamped upon them.” Here this is referring to Israel being defeated at that time, which is yet future.
11) Read: (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 the sanctuary was cast down. KJV
11) Explanation; (Daniel 8:11); in verse eleven; “Yes, he magnified himself even to the prince of the host,” refers to the Antichrist usurping authority over the High Priest of Israel. These verses actually speak of the war which will be instituted by the Antichrist when he breaks his seven-year Covenant with Israel and other countries, actually invading the “pleasant land.” He will defeat Israel and stop the daily sacrifices, which will have been re-instituted by Israel after a lapse of approximately 2,000 years. This tells us the Jewish Temple is going to be rebuilt.
11) Comments: (Daniel 8:11); in verse eleven; here the “Prince of that host” this refers to a Heavenly authority. Now perhaps it will be an Angel or God Himself. Please read these scriptures in the book of (Joshua 5:13-15).
11) Extra-Comments: (Daniel 8:11); in verse eleven; here even the prince of the host; and they seemed in this case, to fight against the Lord God himself. Also the daily sacrifice was taken away. This was done by the destruction of the city and the temple; and has never been restored from that day until now.
12) Read: (Daniel 8:12); And an 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. KJV
12) Explanation; (Daniel 8:12); in verse twelve ; “Now By reason of transgression,” this refers to the Antichrist breaking his seven-year covenant with Israel, therefore, committing “transgression.” Here as stated, the Antichrist will then stop the “daily sacrifice.” And it was practiced, and prospered,” this refers to the fact that much of the world will applaud him in these actions.
12) Comments: (Daniel 8:12); in verse twelve; and the host (the chosen people) was given (to the wicked horn) together with the continual burnt offering because of the transgression (of God’s people and their abounding irreverence, ungodliness, and lack of piety). And righteousness and truth were cast down to the ground, and it (the wicked horn) accomplished this (by divine permission) and prospered. And a host was given to him, which is power; or perhaps the host of heaven and the priesthood or the whole sacrificial system, by reason of transgression. They had filled up the measure of their iniquities, in rejecting the Lord God that bought them; and the daily sacrifice, which was no longer being used, was also given up with the rest to destruction. Also the whole Jewish ritual and religion which they practiced, and prospered, in truth were cast down.
13) Read: (Daniel 8:13); 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? KJV
13) Explanation; (Daniel 8:13); in verse thirteen; these are “Saints” in Heaven when Daniel overheard their conversation, but had no identification as to who they were. The “Sanctuary” spoken of here is the rebuilt Temple. The “Host to be trodden under foot,” this refers to the worshippers, with their worship stopped, as Well as the High Priest and the associating Priests abruptly stopping their duties; if not being killed. This is when the Antichrist invades Israel in the middle of the seven-year tribulation period in (Daniel 9:27).
13) Comments: (Daniel 8:13); in verse thirteen; then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one said to the one that spoke, For how long is the vision concerning the continual offering, the transgression that makes desolate, and the giving over of both the sanctuary and the host (of the people) to be trampled underfoot? Here one saint speaking, and another saint said, then the one Angel asked another, how long will the sanctuary be trodden down?
13) Extra-Comments: (Daniel 8:13); in verse thirteen; the question here was simply about the transgression of desolation, to give both the sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot? Now if we would know the mind of our Lord God, then we must apply to His Son, Jesus Christ, who lay in the bosom of the Father, and in whom are hidden not from us. But for us and all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. The Angels are concerned for the prosperity of the church on earth and desirous to see an end of its desolations. Also the Angels asked for the satisfaction of Daniel, not doubting but he was desirous to know just how long these calamities should last? The answer here, to us is, just take it for granted that they should not last always.
14) Read: (Daniel 8:14); and he said unto me, unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed. KJV
14) Explanation; (Daniel 8:14); in verse fourteen; this Verse makes reference to 2,300 evenings and mornings (verses 11-13, and 26), as there are two sacrifices a day. Now by cutting that in half, which has reference to the number of days, the number is 1,150 in Daniel’s day, the years were counted as 360 days long; instead of our present method of using 365 days. Now the three years, two months, and ten days are the whole and actual length of the doing away of the sacrifices in the Temple before they are offered again by the Jews when the Sanctuary is cleansed of the abomination of desolation. Jesus mentioned this in the book of (Matthew 24:15-16).
14) Comments: (Daniel 8:14); in verse fourteen; and he said to him and to me, For 2,300 evenings and mornings; then the sanctuary shall be cleansed and restored. The cleansing of the sanctuary is a happy token for good to any people, when they begin to be reformed they will soon be relieved. All though the righteous God may, for the correction of His people, that suffer His sanctuary to be profaned for a while, yet the jealous God will, for His own glory, and see to the cleansing of it in due time. Remember that we as believers in Jesus Christ know that He died to cleanse His church, and He will so cleanse it, as at length, to present it blameless to Himself.
VII) “The Interpretation; Angelic Interpreters:
15) Read: (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. KJV
15) Explanation; (Daniel 8:15); in verse fifteen; this is actually the mighty Angel, “Gabriel”, who stands in the Presence of God in the book of (Luke 1:19). Now this is what the Apostle Luke wrote in verse nineteen; and the Angel, answering, said unto him, I am “Gabriel,” who stands in the presence of God, and am sent to speak unto thee, and to show thee these glad tidings. Also the phrase; “there stood before me as the appearance of a man,” which I believe is supposed to be the Messiah.
15) Comments: (Daniel 8:15); in verse fifteen; when Daniel, had seen the vision, he sought the meaning of it. Then behold, there stood before me one (Gabriel) with the appearance of a man. Also those that rightly know the things of God cannot but desire to know more and more of them, and to be led further into the mystery of them.
And those that would find the meaning of what they have seen or heard from God must seek it, and seek it diligently.
16) Read: (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. KJV
16) Explanation; (Daniel 8:16); in verse sixteen; it is not known whether the “man’s voice” spoken here refers to an Angel or a redeemed man. At any rate, he will inform “Gabriel” that he is to “make Daniel to understand the Vision”.
16) Comments: (Daniel 8:16); in verse sixteen; and I heard a man’s voice between the banks of the (river) Ulai which called and said, Gabriel, make this man (Daniel) understand the vision. Here Daniel, had seen the vision, and he sought to understand it. Sometimes our Lord God is pleased to make use of the ministration of Angels, not only to protect His children. But also to instruct them, to serve the kind of intentions, not only for His providence, but of His grace.
VIII) “Time of Fulfillment”
17) Read: (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. KJV
17) Explanation; (Daniel 8:17); in verse seventeen; here Daniel said that he was frightened and fell on my face. But he said to me, Understand, O son of man, for the (fulfillment of the) vision belongs to (events that shall occur in) the time of the end. Remember; “for at the time of the end shall be the vision,” and this refers to the End-time, namely the very days in which we now live, and extending into the immediate future.
17) Comments; (Daniel 8:17); in verse seventeen; so he came near where I stood, and when he came, I was frightened and fell on my face. But he said to me, Understand, O son of man, for the (fulfillment of the) vision belongs to (events that shall occur in) the time of the end.
18) Read: (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. KJV
18) Explanation; (Daniel 8:18); in verse eighteen; “My face toward the ground,” is not by accident! Daniel senses his tremendous unworthiness, especially in such Presence.
18) Comments: (Daniel 8:18); in verse eighteen; now as he (Gabriel) was speaking with me, I fell stunned and in deep unconsciousness with my face to the ground; but he touched me and set me upright (where I had stood).
19) Read: (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. KJV
19) Explanation; (Daniel 8:19); in verse nineteen; “what shall be in the last end of the indignation,” this concerns God’s past, his present, and future indignation against Israel. And to that indignation, He has set an appointed limit. However, the far greater part of the “indignation” spoken of here concerns the “last end,” of the last days, the Great Tribulation.
19) Comments: (Daniel 8:19); in verse nineteen; and he said, Behold, I will make you know what will be in the latter time of the indignation (of God upon the ungodly), for it has to do with the time of the end.
IX) “The Ram: Medo-Persia”
20) Read: (Daniel 8:20); the ram which thou sawest having two horns are the kings of Media and Persia. KJV
20) Explanation; (Daniel 8:20); in verse twenty; Daniel served in this Empire for a number of years before his death. Also the ram which thou sawest, and this can be explained under the vision itself in verse three.
20) Comments: (Daniel 8:20); in verse twenty; the ram you saw having two horns, they are the kings of Media and Persia.
X) “The he-Goat: Grecia”
21) Read: (Daniel 8:21); and the rough goat is the king of Grecia: and the great horn that is between his eyes is the first king. KJV
21) Explanation; (Daniel 8:21); in verse twenty-one; Now the “great horn” is Alexander the Great.
21) Comments: (Daniel 8:21); in verse twenty-one; and the shaggy and rough he-goat is the king of Greece, and the great horn between his eyes is the first king (who consolidated the whole realm, Alexander the Great).
XI) “The Four Horns: Greece, Turkey, Syria, and Egypt”
22) Read: (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. KJV
22) Explanation; (Daniel 8:22); in verse twenty-two; “That being broken,” refers to the “great horn,” symbolizing the death of Alexander the Great. “Whereas four stood up for it, this refers to four generals who took the Empire after death of Alexander, dividing it up among themselves. “But not in his power;” and this means that Alexander did not designate these kingdoms to them, because he was dead.
22) Comments: (Daniel 8:22); in verse twenty-two; and as for the horn which was shattered, in whose place four others arose, four kingdoms shall arise out of his nation but not having his (Alexander’s) power.
XII) “The “Little Horn”
23) Read: (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. KJV
23) Explanation; (Daniel 8:23); in verse twenty-three; and in the latter time of their kingdom,” this pertains to the coming of the Antichrist. “When the transgressors are come to the full,” this refers to the nation of Israel reaching the climax of her guilt by accepting the Antichrist instead of Christ, as predicted by the Lord Himself in (John 5:43).
A king of fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, “shall stand up,” proclaims the Antichrist having a majestic presence and superhuman knowledge, which is actually inspired of Satan.
23) Comments: (Daniel 8:23); in verse twenty-three; and at the latter end of their kingdom, when the transgressors (the apostate Jews) have reached the fullness (of their wickedness, taxing the limits of God’s mercy), a king of fierce countenance and understanding dark trickery and craftiness shall stand up.
XIII) “The “Little Horn’s,” Power and War on The Saints”
24) Read: (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. KJV
24) Explanation; (Daniel 8:24); in verse twenty-four; and he shall destroy wonderfully,” refers to (Revelation 6:4-8). “And shall prosper; and practice,” means that his efforts will be extremely successful. And shall destroy the mighty and the holy people,” this refers to Israel.
24) Comments: (Daniel 8:24); in verse twenty-four; and his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power; and he shall corrupt and destroy astonishingly and shall prosper and do his own pleasure, and he shall corrupt and destroy the mighty men and the holy people (the people of the saints).
XIV) “His Exaltation and War with the Messiah”
25) Read: (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. KJV
25) Explanation; (Daniel 8:25); in verse twenty-five; the word “craft” in the Hebrew is “mirmah,” meaning “deceit.” The Antichrist will be the greatest deceiver of all in (II Thessalonians 2:8-12); (Revelation 13:14); and (Revelation 19:20). The last phrase, He shall stand up against the Prince of princes,” this refers to his war against Christ, which will culminate with the Battle of Armageddon. (Joel, Chapter 3); (Zechariah Chapter. 14); (Revelation 16:13-16); and (Revelation 19:11-21).
25) Comments: (Daniel 8:25); in verse twenty-five; the vision of the evenings and the mornings which has been told you is true. But seal up the vision, for it has to do with and belongs to the (now) distant future. He shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many. Here we know of the things of God should be carefully laid up, that hereafter, when there is an occasion, it may be faithfully laid out. And what we have not now any use for, yet we may have another time. Also the divine truths should be sealed up among our treasures that we may find them again after many days.
XV) “The Time of the Vision”
26) Read: (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. KJV
26) Explanation; (Daniel 8:26); in verse twenty-six; “For it shall be for many days,” signifies that the Vision from Daniel’s day would be a long time in coming to fulfillment. Actually, it has not yet been fulfilled, but it most definitely shall be in the near future.
26) Comments: (Daniel 8:26); in verse twenty-six; the vision of the evenings and the mornings which has been told you is true. But seal up the vision, for it has to do with and belongs to the now distant future. Also Gabriel the Angel instructed Daniel to shut up the vision and not for the purpose of hiding its meaning from faithful readers of Scripture but rather to secure the document for safe keeping into the distant future. And meaning the time of Antiochus (some 400 years after the vision was given) and the time of the Antichrist which is yet future and is typified by Antiochus.
26) Extra-Comments: (Daniel 8:26); in verse twenty-six; the vision of the evenings and the mornings which has been told you is true. Also it is mentioned in verse fourteen. But seal up the vision, for it has to do with and belongs to the (now) distant future. For it shall be for many days. And not less than two thousand and three hundred years!
27) Read: (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. KJV
27) Explanation; (Daniel 8:27); in verse twenty-seven; “But none understood it,” but this refers to the fact that the comprehension of events in the distant future was difficult. Presently, in the light of the history of many of these things, especially considering that they are beginning now to come to pass, our understanding of those things which the Angel Gabriel intended is being enlightened.
27) Comments: (Daniel 8:27); in verse twenty-seven; and I, Daniel, fainted and was sick (for several) days. Afterward I rose up and did the king’s business; and I wondered at the vision, but there was no one who understood it or could make it understood. Now as long as we live in this world we must have something to do in it. And even those whom our Lord God has most dignified with His favors must not think themselves above their business; nor must the pleasure of communion with God take us off from the duties of our particular calling. But still we must in them abide with our Lord God. Those especially that are entrusted with public business must see to it that they conscientiously discharge their trust.
A) Remember; if you are not saved our God has the power to save anyone that calls upon the name of Jesus Christ and repents of their sins. Now all that are lost need God’s power because we have a problem with sin. The Bible tells us that “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23).
B) Now you can find the way to Heaven in the book of (Romans 10:9). This scripture in the bible tells us that “If you confess with your mouth, that “Jesus is Lord,” and that you believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
C) We all need to confess our sins and ask God for his forgiveness. When you confess Jesus Christ as your Lord, then this involves an agreeing with God about your sin and your need for Salvation. You must repent of your own personal sins, by doing this you are willing to turn away from the direction in life in which you are going.
D) Now to “believe in your heart” is to place your faith in Jesus Christ your Lord and Savior, also you are trusting that Jesus died on the Cross to pay for your sins. But our God proves His own love for us in that while we were sill sinners, Jesus Christ died for all of us. (Romans 5:8).
E) Remember, if you would like to have Salvation in our Lord Jesus Christ, you sincerely pray a prayer like this one; “Please God, I confess to you my sins and I need for you to save me right now. I turn away from my sins and I place my faith in Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord of my life forever. Amen.”
F) Now in the book of Matthew, in chapter 28, these scriptures tells us that the disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them to go. (Matthew 28:16); and when they saw Him, they worshiped Him. But some doubted. (Matthew 28:17); and Jesus came and spoke unto them, saying, All authority is given unto me in Heaven and in earth. (Matthew 28:18); In verse 19; Jesus said, go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, which is Jesus, and of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:19); Also in verse 20, Jesus said, teaching them to observe all things, whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world, (age). Amen. (Matthew 28:20);
G) Now you have just finish reading the two scriptures in the book of (Matthew 28: 9-20). Most people that are Christians go to church on Sunday morning and then go out to eat lunch or a late dinner. But I would like to ask everyone a few questions about whose job it is to tell the “Good News” or the “Gospel”?
H) Most Christians believe that this is the job of the pastor because that why we pay him for. But then there are the other type of Christians that believe that this job belongs to the Deacon in the church. Well, guess what, I believe that telling the Gospel is my job and every born again believers that has accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior. Yes that means all of us are commanded to go, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, which is Jesus, and of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:19); Remember time is running out for all those that are not saved. Also I believe that we are living in those last days right now and we as Christians have very little time left to tell our love ones and those who may not be saved about our Lord Jesus Salvation Plan. And that plan is called the “Gospel” or the “Good News,” this is the job of every born again believer that calls Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior.
I) Remember, there is always hope if you have called upon the one and only name of Jesus Christ and confess your sins to Him. After this you must ask Jesus to save you, because He died upon that old rugged Cross and paid for our sins by the shedding of His precious blood. Then Jesus was buried in a tomb and He rose on the third day in victory over that grave and death. Because of this victory over the grave and death, we as sinners can call upon the name of Jesus and He will forgive us of all our sins and save us for His own. Then we that are born again, in our Lord Jesus Christ, have a home in Heaven for all eternity. Remember our Hope is always been in the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. Now in the book of Revelation, the Apostle John tells us that He will return with a large army from the East and attack the evil forces of the Antichrist in the valley of Megiddo, and this will occurs at the end of the tribulation period. We should remember that the signs of the returning Son of Man will appear in the Heavens in (Matthew 24:29-30). Here all the opposing armies will unite to fight our Lord Jesus Christ. But the Lord Jesus will descend from Heaven with His armies, and He will defeat both armies, and take captive of that old Satan, the Antichrist, and the false prophet and cast them into the lake of fire in the book of (Revelation 19:11-21). Also we should read the scriptures in the book of (Zechariah 12:1-9); (Zechariah 14:1-3). Here the Antichrist shall come to his end, and there will be no one to help him. (Daniel 11:45).
J) Here this is one of my favored scripture in God’s Holy Word called the bible. It is when Jesus said to Thomas and the disciples in (John 14:6); I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. When we read scriptures like this one, how can anyone doubt His Word is not the “truth” and He is the only one that can save us and forgive us of our sins, Also our Lord Jesus Christ is the only one that has promised us an eternal home with Him in Heaven for all eternity. Our Lord God has also promised to wipe away all tears from our eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away in (Revelation 21:4). Now I ask you this question; Don’t we as believers in Jesus Christ, serve the one and only living true God?
K) Also remember that our Lord and Savior Jesus is the only one who gives us “Hope for the future,” And by died on that Old Rugged Cross and by the shedding of His precious blood; which covers our sins so that we could go free. But we repent of our sins and call upon the name of Jesus, because He is the one and only one that can save you. Now we should always remember that Jesus gave His life for us sinner freely, so that we might live and serve Him. Also I believe that by giving His life for us, then we can say that this “Gift of Love,” is the greatest Love of all” because He laid down His Life, so that we can be free and have a home in Heaven too. Please read chapter twenty-one in the last book of God’s Holy Word the bible. This is the new place that our Lord Jesus has prepared for all who trust in Him for our Salvation. (Revelation 21:1-27); and (Revelation 22:1-21).
L) Then you should share your Faith in Jesus Christ with other Christian friends or a pastor. Now by becoming a Christian, this is your first step on that long life’s road of a Spiritual growth and your service to sharing God. The second step is to follow Jesus Christ in a believer’s baptism by immersion in water and joining a local church that teaches the true Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. But we as Christians should remember what Jesus said to Thomas in (John 14:6); I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
M) Note: Now this concludes our Bible Study on the eighth chapter of the Book of Daniel. Please be much in prayer for me as I try to teach the ninth chapter of this great book of Daniel. Now remember that everything on this web-site is free. Please pass them on to other people if they have helped you.
Frank Rose