The Second Vision
Daniel Receives his Second Vision
Daniel’s second vision takes place in Babylon, as outlined in chapter 8. It is an expansion of chapter 7–”repeat and enlarge”, as some Bible teachers like to call it. Unlike chapter 7 (Daniel 7:4) though, chapter 8 begins with Medo-Persia and predicts the rise of Persia greater than the Medes (Daniel 8:3-7, 20). If Belshazzar only knew what Daniel saw in this vision, he would have shuddered!
That Babylon does not get itemized in the vision leads one to believe that it would make a rather imminent departure. Having read the previous chapters, one also can safely assume that these chapters were not necessarily in chronological order. Thus, the division of historic vs prophetic chapters, beginning with chapter 7 with the exception of chapter 2.
Each of the beasts in chapter 8 corresponds to a beast in chapter 7, without Babylon, as mentioned, and is subsequently interpreted to be a corresponding nation (Daniel 7:17). Unseen voices interject the vision, and the angel Gabriel interprets it. The revisit of the “little horn” concept shows a rising, yet powerful force (Daniel 8:9-12). As in chapter 7 (Daniel 7:8, 20, 21, 24-26) , this little horn power is antagonistic to God and seeks to overthrow or at least undermine His sovereignty and right to receive worship as the Creator (Revelation 14:7).
Chapter 8 introduces the longest time prophecy (Daniel 8:13, 14), but without benefit of the following chapter, it leaves one to wonder, as did Daniel, who is both mentally and physically drained at this point.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please tune our minds to acknowledge and worship You as our Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. You are worthy of all glory, honor, and praise. We pray this in the matchless name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
I pray this post has blessed you. Please like, comment, share, and subscribe. For prayer requests and further Bible study on Daniel and Bible prophecy, please contact me via Robert Blake (Hello 8055).
