Understanding Daniel's Vision: A Study of Daniel 8
A study of Daniel 8, focusing on the vision of the ram and goat, and its implications.
1. Introduction and Context
1.1 The Setting of the Vision
Verses: Daniel 8:1-2
- Daniel receives the vision in the third year of Belshazzar's reign.
- The vision takes place in Shushan, near the Ulai Canal.
2. The Vision of the Ram
2.1 The Ram: Symbol of Medo-Persia
Verses: Daniel 8:3-4; Daniel 8:20
- The ram has two horns, one higher than the other, representing the kings of Media and Persia.
- The ram pushes westward, northward, and southward, symbolizing their conquests.
3. The Vision of the Goat
3.1 The Goat: Symbol of Greece
Verses: Daniel 8:5-7; Daniel 8:21
- The goat comes from the west, moving swiftly across the earth.
- The large horn between its eyes represents the first king of Greece (Alexander the Great).
3.2 The Broken Horn and Four Kingdoms
Verses: Daniel 8:8; Daniel 8:22
- The large horn is broken, and four horns come up in its place, representing the four kingdoms that arose after Alexander's death.
- These kingdoms divided Alexander's empire but lacked his power.
4. The Little Horn and the Sanctuary
4.1 The Little Horn: A Persecuting Power
Verses: Daniel 8:9-12; Daniel 8:23-25
- A little horn emerges from one of the four horns, growing exceedingly great.
- This horn defiles the sanctuary and takes away the daily sacrifice.
4.2 The Time of Desolation and Cleansing
Verses: Daniel 8:13-14
- The vision speaks of a time period of 2300 days (or evenings and mornings) during which the sanctuary is trampled.
- After this period, the sanctuary will be cleansed.
5. Interpretation and Conclusion
5.1 Gabriel's Explanation
Verses: Daniel 8:15-19; Daniel 8:26
- Gabriel is sent to help Daniel understand the vision.
- The vision concerns the time of the end, a period of tribulation and judgment.
5.2 Daniel's Reaction and the Sealed Vision
Verses: Daniel 8:27
- Daniel is overwhelmed and sickened by the vision.
- The vision is sealed until the time of the end, indicating its future fulfillment.