Daniel Chapter 8

Summary:

In Daniel 8, the prophet receives a second vision. This time he sees a ram with two horns, one of which is higher than the other, followed by a goat, with a notable horn, which attacks the ram, throwing him to the ground and trampling him. None is able to deliver the ram from the goat. The goat’s horn is then broken, and in its place, four horns arise toward the four winds. After this, a little horn appears (just as in Daniel chapter 7), which magnifies himself against God. This power takes away the daily [sacrifice] and sets up the transgression of desolation. When the question is asked, “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?,” the angel replies, “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.” The angel Gabriel tells Daniel exactly what world powers are represented by the ram and the goat: Medo-Persia and Greece. The first king of Greece, Alexander the Great, is specified by the notable horn that is broken. Daniel is so overwhelmed by the time period presented, that he faints and was sick certain days. Unfortunately he fainted in the middle of the angel’s explanation, therefore does not understand the vision. Gabriel must return (in chapter 9) to finish the explanation.