Gabriel Interprets The Vision

S. I. McMillen, in his book None of These Diseases, tells a story of a young woman who wanted to go to college, but her heart sank when she read the question on the application blank that asked, “Are you a leader” Being both honest and conscientious, she wrote, No … More

Leadership

Even though Daniel was able to interpret Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams he could not interpret this dream so he earnestly sought for its meanings. Gabriel was sent to give the meaning of the vision to Daniel (vv. 15-16). He was a heavenly messenger God used to explain Daniel’s visions (9:21). As the angel appeared, Daniel fell down in fear before him (v. 17) and went into a deep sleep (v. 18). The interpreting angel identifies this great ram as the Medo-Persion empire which was to follow Babylon to the scene of world power. Although he identifies it historically, he also uses certain suggestive phrases which indicate that there is also to be a far distant fulfillment. For instance he says that it will apply to “the time of the end” (v. 17, “the last end of the indignation” (v. 19), and “the time appointed the end” (v. 19). The two horns of the ram are the kings of Media and Persia (v. 20).

The “rough” (he) goat describes the rise of the Grecian empire under Alexander the Great (v. 21). He conquered the land of Persia and then swept south and defeated Egypt by the age of 33. He went on to Babylon where he indulged himself in a great drunken feast and died from a combination of malaria and acute alcoholism. Though conquer of the world he was unable to conquer his own passions. At this point Alexander’s kingdom’s was divided among four of his generals (v. 22).  Gabriel said that from among one of the four kings would come a powerful ruler who would gain this authority by trickery and political maneuvering (v. 23). This king is known as Antiochus Epiphanes who can be described as a “madman.” What was prophesied was literally fulfilled through him (vv. 24-27). However, this prophesy also looks to be future and characterizes the Anti-Christ who will rule with mighty power. In the end he will be destroyed by a special visitation from God.

Application

When given leadership responsibilities I must always go to the Lord and seek wise counsel.

Daniel 8:15-27 (English Standard Version)


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