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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.