CHAP. VII.
Daniel has a vision of four great beasts arising out of the sea; the fourth having ten horns; among which a little horn comes
to God, for more than thirty days together, are far more numerous, than they who serve him continually, and worship him with bended knees, and humble, thankful hearts, praying and giving thanks to him three times a day. No wonder then that laws have been more frequently made to restrain, than to encourage, serious piety: for alas! a very great majority hitherto, even of legislators, have been strangers to the truth and will of God; and numbers have hated them for interfering with their worldly pursuits and pleasures.
V. 10-17.
up, 1-8; and of the Messiah's kingdom, 9-14. An angel in terprets the vision, of four kingdoms which would succeed each other: and shews the nature of the fourth kingdom, with the mischiefs done by the little horn, and the destruction of that kingdom, to make way for the kingdom of God, 15-28.
demnation against those, who deserve all possible honor and reward. But that God, whom believers serve continually, is able to deliver them out of every danger and temptation; and to defeat all the purposes of their persecutors to destroy them: and it is far better to "trust in him than to put any confidence in princes." ( Note , Ps . 118:8,9.)
V. 18-28.
The most powerful man on earth may pity, where he cannot deliver, and mourn over those oppressions which he cannot redress; ( Notc , Ec . 3:16,17.) and be constrained or seduced into those measures, which fill his heart with anguish, and his conscience with remorse, and mar all his enjoyments.
So vain is all earthals of earthly satisfaction!-But the persecuted believer may be happy in the most dreary dungeon, or the most perilous situation; as nothing can exclude him from "the throne of grace,' or from that "peace of God which passeth all understanding." "Through faith even the mouths of lions may be stopped:" if temporal safety be good for us, we shall be preserved in the very jaws of destruction: hungry lions shall be harmless as lambs, and their presence ence shall only serve to increase our admiration of the Lord's power, and our gratitude for his goodness: nay, even Satan, that "roaring lion, who goeth about seeking whom he may devour," shall be so restrained, that he shall not be able to harm us, or even to frighten us, while we rest on the promises of our God, and attend to his commandments.
We should then "exercise ourselves to have a conscience void of offence towards God and man," that we may rejoice in its testimony in difficult circumstances; and we should be ready to answer, with meekness and kindness, even those who have injured us, especially if they are sensible of their fault. ( Notes , 2 Cor . 1:12-14. 1 Pet . 3:13-16.) However our temporal trials may end, we shall come forth of them all: and no hurt will be found on those who have believed in God, and kept his way.
But whilst their troubles terminate in their greater honor, comfort, and felicity; the short-lived "triumphing of the wicked" will end in their unpitied and irreversible ruin; in which their relatives are often involved along with them. Thus "the LORD taketh the wise in their own craftiness;" and their devices against him give him an occasion of making known his own eternal power and Godhead among the nations, and of bringing such as were far off to adore and tremble before him.
He is the living and unchangeable God, who alone "is stedfast for ever:" his decrees, purposes, and laws are, and ought to be, established so that none can change them: "His is the kingdom, the power, and the glory for ever;" and "he delivereth and rescueth, and worketh signs and wonders in heaven and earth." These things are sometimes made evever displeased with themselves, or earnest in worship and serve him: and many are emlaboring to extricate them from danger; they ployed as his instruments, in making known may with sorrow find, that they cannot do it, his perfections and wonderful works to othwithout hazarding such consequences, or mak-ers, who themselves remain strangers to his ing such sacrifices, as they dare not venture saving grace.
May we then be believers and Thus fear of man, iniquitous laws, foolish doers of the word; and not merely hear, preach, and rash measures, and malignant accusers, or write about it, lest we should be found at may concur in extorting the sentence of con- last to have "deceived our ownselves."
Persecuting and sanguinary laws are always enacted on false pretences, and are replete with absurdity, impiety, and injustice: but but it does not behove Christians to make bitter complaints, or use sarcastical revilings. We ly greatness! s! and so unavailing all the materi
should quietly obey God rather than man, and commit the keeping of our lives and souls to him in well doing; and, instead of intermitting the exercise of our religion to escape the cross, we should count ourselves called on to make a more open profession of it: for that conduct, which in ordinary cases might appear ostentatious, becomes in other circumstances a proper protest against prevailing impiety, and an edifying example to our brethren. ( Note , Matt . 6:1-4.) Such Christians and ministers especially, as are of eminent reputation, should deem themselves, on these emergencies, called on to stand forth in the most intrepid and decided manner; and to risk all consequences, by a conduct which may not be required of more obscure persons.
But the most eminent servants of God will see cause to prostrate themselves before him, with every expression of the most profound reverence, humility, and self-abasement; and the most entire reliance on his mercy through the mediation of Christ. -Those who fill the most exalted stations, and are most extensively useful, must not only find time for communion with God, but should abound in it more than others; having more to pray and to return thanks for: and with advancing years, men ought to grow more fervent and constant in their devotions; that the consolations of God may make up the loss of other comforts, or the want of relish for them; and that they may constantly be in a proper frame of mind for joining the worship of "the saints in light." But in this evil world, that conduct, which most accords to the will of God, will often be turned into matter of accusation against us.
It is, however, far "better to suffer for well-doing than for evildoing:" for though pious persons cannot place much confidence in the protection, even of those princes, whom they have most faithfully served, and who are most convinced of their wisdom and uprightness; yet they may in all cases be assured of the divine favor and consolation. Various personal and political interests may render kings irresolute, in defending their best friends against the assaults of their enemies. They may inconsiderately give the occasion of injuring them: and how-ident, even to such as are not influenced to
on.
CHAP. VII. V. 1. The preceding chapter
rapidity and unabated vigor, with which he prosecuted his victories. But while the proph
concludes the historical records, which Dan-et contemplated this, he observed, "that the
iel was directed to transmit to posterity: in this he begins to relate his own prophetical visions. In the first year of Belshazzar's reign, or seventeen years before the events just recorded, a visionary representation was made to his mind in a dream, which he committed to writing, and communicated to his people. It contains for substance the same prophetical intimations with Nebuchadnezzar's dream, ( Notes , 2:31-45.) but under different allusions, and with many additional circumstances. ( Marg . and Marg . Ref . )
V.2, 3. The great sea, agitated by the four winds, represented the carth and its inhabitants, as thrown into perpetual convulsions by ambitious princes and mighty conquerors; and the confusion and wild uproar, excited by their furious contests for victory and dominion. The "four beasts" signified the same, with the four constituent parts of Nebuchadnezzar's visionary image.
To his carnal mind, mighty conquerors and extensive flourishing empires would have a shew of glory, which was represented by a splendid and immense image: to the spiritual mind of Daniel, they would appear terrible, odious, and destructive, which was more aptly denoted by devouring beasts. ( Notes , 2:31-35.) -They arose out of the sea, not all at once, but one after another: which signified that these kingdoms would subvert and succeed each other, as well as acquire dominion over other nations.
They were also "diverse one from another," and, like the image whose head was of gold, the first was the more noble, the last more terrible. The prophetic dream of Nebuchadnez'zar, and the vision of the four beasts, equally 'predict, that, from the era of the Babylonian 'monarchy to the commencement of the mil'lennium, there should be four , and no more 'than four , empires; universal, so far as the 'church is concerned.' Faber . (Marg. Ref.Notes, Rev. 7:1-3, v. 1. 13:1.)
V. 4. The Chaldean empire, as advanced to its summit of prosperity under Nebuchadnezzar, and as declining under Belshazzar, was intended by this beast. The "lion" was an emblem of Nebuchadnezzar's courage, and
wings thereof were plucked."-After the death of Nebuchadnezzar, the Chaldeans made no more conquests; several of the subjected nations revolted; the Medes and Persians soon began to straiten them; till at length Babylon was besieged and taken: and in this manner that mona monarchy was terminated. No longer did this beast appear rapid in conquest, as an eagle, or courageous and terrible as a lion: but it was changed, as it were, into a human creature; it "stood on its feet as a man, and had a man's heart given to it." After Nebuchadnezzar's death, the kings of Babylon became less terrible to their foes and subjects, and more cautious, and even timid: till at length Belshazzar shut himself up in Babylon, not daring to face Cyrus: as "a man" would not venture to face a raging bear, which "a lion" would despise. ( Marg . Ref . -Notes , Jer. 51:30-33.)
V. 5. Whilst Daniel beheld, how the first beast was weakened, he saw another beast come up out of the sea, to subvert and supplant him. This represented the kingdom of the Medes and Persians.
Its emblem was "a bear;" less noble and courageous, but more voracious and savage, than a lion. ( Note , Hos . 13:5-8.) This beast "raised up itself on one side;" for the Medes and Persians extended their conquests almost wholly to the west of their own countries: or, "it raised up one dominion," ( Marg .) that is, the Medes and Persians united to form one kingdom; or the Persians who were the inferior people, acquired the chief dominion.
It had also "three ribs between its teeth:" this is interpreted of the three kingdoms of Babylon, Lydia, and Egypt, which the Persians conquered, and grievously oppressed: thus taking the prey, as it were, out of the mouth of the Chaldeans.
And there were those standing by, who called on the beast to "arise and devour much flesh:" this may be explained of the providential dispensations, which excited the Medes and Persians to attempt extensive conquests; and of the cruelty of the Persian kings, which hardly ever was exceeded or equalled: but may it not also denote their attempts to subdue the Thracians, Macedonians, Greeks, and other Euro
success in acquiring dominion over his neigh-pean nations, which at length occasioned the
bors; and perhaps of the superior generosity and magnanimity, with which he ruled over the nations. The "eagle's wings" denoted the
ruin of their monarchy? - Their success made 'them still more greedy of dominion. Lowth. ( Marg . Ref . Notes , 2:39. 8:3,4.)
В. С. 555. of it, a four wings of a fowl; the beast had | terrible, and strong exceedingly: and it had also four heads; and dominion was given
to it.
V. 6. This bear having disappeared, the prophet saw an extraordinary "leopard" rise up in its stead. This was the emblem of the Grecian or Macedonian empire, which for the time was the most renowned in the world. It was erected by Alexander the Great, on the ruins of the Persian monarchy, and it was continued in four divisions under his successors. The leopard, being exceedingly fierce and swift, represented that kingdom,
great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; "and it had ten horns.
u See on 24. 2:41,42. Rev. 12:3. 13:1. 17:7,12.
degree of dependence; drew all the spoil and wealth of many conquered nations to enrich their proud capital; and tyrannised over all, that did not quietly yield obedience to their authority. (Marg. Ref .
Notes , 19-27. 2:40 -43.) - 'That which the Romans could not 'quietly enjoy in other countries, they would 'give to other kings and rulers; that at all times 'when they would they might take it again; 'which liberality is here called "the stamping the swiftness of a quadruped was not an empire was governed in another manner, and adequate emblem of the rapidity, with which by other maxims, than any of the preceding: he made his conquests; as he subdued na- and in process of time, it was divided into ten tions more speedily than others could march | kingdoms.
These are indeed reckoned up in their armies through them. The leopard had several ways, by different writers; according therefore four wings of a fowl upon his to the date assigned to the enumeration: but back. When Alexander died, his kingdom in general it is clear, that the principal kingwas, after many severe and long continu- doms in Europe at this day, sprang from them, ed contests among his captains, divided into and comprise them; excepting some of the four parts, Egypt, Syria, Macedonia, and more northern regions, and those possessed
and especially Alexander its founder. But 'of the rest under their feet." '-This fourth
Thrace, with some regions of Asia Minor. These were the "four heads" of this third beast; and under them dominion was given to it, till it was gradually reduced by the Romans. -'By the swiftness of Alexander's progress, 'and the victories which he obtained by small 'forces, it appeared that Providence gave him 'the empire of the world.' Lowth . ( Marg . Ref . -Notes, 2:39. 8:5–8. 11:24. Rev. 13:2-4, v . 2.)
V. 7. Some expositors have explained this fourth beast, of the successors of Alexander, and have endeavored to make out that Antiochus Epiphanes was "the little horn." But were any of Alexander's successors, or even all of them together, more powerful and dreadful than he had been? Were their conquests more extensive and destructive than his? For it is most evident that those of this fourth beast were. The "ten horns" were "kings," or kingdoms, (according to the language of all existing at once, and not indi
prophecy.) all existin
vidual princes rising in succession. "The little horn" was not one of the ten, but arose among and after them: and this beast in one form or other was to subsist, till the establish ment of the kingdom of of Christ Christ, nay, to the universal success of his religion; as it is afterwards predicted. These reasons have induced almost all modern protestant expositors, to look
by the Turks. The various ways, in which these ten kingdoms have been enumerated, as the catalogue has been formed for different periods, is indeed an interesting subject to a student of history, and of prophecy; but the full discussion of such a learned subject by no means suits this publication. Mr. Faber's remarks on this point are well worthy the accurate student's attention, and his conclusion from it seems well grounded. The historian 'Machiaval, ... little thinking what he was do'ing, reckons up the ten primary kingdoms as 'follows. 1. The Ostrogoths in Mesia. 2.
The 'Visigoths in Pannonia. 3. The Sueves and 'Alans in Gasgoine and Spain. 4. The Van'dals in Africa. 5. The Franks in France. 6. 'The Burgundians in Burgundy. 7. The He'rulia and Turingi in Italy. 8. The Saxons 'and Angles in Britain. 9. The Huns in Hun'gary; and 10, the Lombards at first upon the 'Danube, afterwards in Italy. The same cat'alogue is exhibited by that excellent chronolo'ger 'ger Bp. Bp. Lloyd, who adds the dates, when these 'ten kingdoms arose. 1. The Huns about A. 'D. 356. 2. The Ostrogoths, 377. 3. The VisiTh 'goths, 378. 4. The Franks, 407. 5. The Van'dals, 407.6. 407. 6.
The Sueves and Alans, 407. 7. The 'Burgundians, 407. 8. The Heruli and Rugii, '476. 9. The Saxons, 476. 10. The Longobards in the north of Germany, Germany, 483: in Hungary, 526.
elsewhere for this "fourth beast:" and the em-'--These then upon the concurring testimony
blems are so apposite, that there can be little danger of mistake, or reason for hesitation, as to the grand outlines. This "fourth beast" evidently accords with the legs and feet of iron, which were seen by Nebuchadnezzar in his visionary image, and which were at length
of an historian and a chronologer, are "the ten 'kingdoms," into which the Roman empire 'was originally divided; and consequently they 'are the first "ten horns," of which we are in 'quest.' Faber , Vol. I. pp. 170, 171.-The western empire, was at first divided into ten king
divided into ten toes. It far exceeded, in pow-doms; as the regions, conquered by Alexander
er, fierceness, and destructive rage, all that the Great, were into four ; and whatever alhad gone before it, as well as in the extent terations took place in subsequent ages; the and long duration of its dominions: and no an- one still continued, in the language of propheimal could be found so terrible and furious as cy, the ten horns of the fourth beast, and the to lend it a suitable name. This was doubt- other, the four heads of the third beast.
The less an emblem of the Roman state, the invin- western empire was broken into ten kingcible fortitude, hardiness, and force of which doms; this therefore must be exclusively inperhaps were never equalled. By wars and tended: and St. John, before he enters on the conquests, the Romans bare down all opposi- state of the church in the west, during the tion, and reduced almost every kingdom or reign of the ten-horned beast and the twostate in the known world, into some kind orllhorned beast, gives an account of the eastern
empire, and the subversion of it, by the Saracens and Turks, in a distinct chapter. ( Notes , Rev. 9: 11:-13:)-It is, however, certain, that the Roman empire was divided into ten kingdoms: and though they might be sometimes more, and sometimes fewer; yet they were still known by the name of the ten kingdoms of the western empire, which suffices for our general purpose. For, though the Romans subdued those countries in the east, which had successively belonged to the Chaldeans, the Persians, and the Macedonians; yet their empire (or the body, head, and horns of the beast,) was in the west.
'All the four beasts are still 'alive, though the dominion of the three first 'be taken away. The nations of Chaldea and 'Assyria are still the first beast. Those of Me'dia and Persia are still the second beast. "Those of Macedonia, Greece, Thrace, Asia Minor, Syria, and Egypt are still the third; 'and those of Europe, on this side Greece, are 'still the fourth.' Sir Isaac Newton .
V. 8. While the prophet was considering these ten horns, he saw "another little horn" springing up among them. This evidently points out the power of the church and bishop of Rome, which, from small beginnings, long before it became a temporal dominion, thrust itself up among the ten kingdoms, and at length got possession of three of them, having turned out those who held them. If ever 'three kingdoms were "plucked up" before a little kingdom, which arose imperceptibly 'among the ten primary kingdoms, they must 'be three, the names of which occur in the pre'ceding list of Machiavel, and Bp.
Lloyd. Ac'cordingly we find that the kingdom of the 'Heruli, the kingdom of the Ostrogoths, and 'the kingdom of the Lombards, were succes'sively eradicated before the little papal horn , 'which at length became a temporal , no less 'than a spiritual power, at the expense of these 'three depressed primary states. Faber . This seems better founded, than the opinion, that the Exarchate of Ravenna, the kingdom of the
forth from before him: thousand housands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: & the judgment was set, and the books were opened.
11 I beheld then, because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake: I beheld, even till the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame.
12 As concerning k the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away: yet their lives were prolonged for a season and time.
13 I saw in the night-visions, and, be
tablishing its interests, and advancing its exorbitant pretensions: and the court of Rome has ever been remarkable for this, above all the states in the world, as every person at all acquainted with history must know. It had also "a mouth speaking great things:" and we shall have frequent occasion to speak of the arrogant claims, blasphemous titles, and great swelling words of vanity, of this horn.
The style of "his holiness," "our Lord God, the Pope, 'another god on earth,' and the claim of infallibility, and of a power to dispense with God's laws, to forgive sins, and to sell admission into heaven, may serve for a specimen of the great things which this mouth has spoken. ( Marg . Ref . c.- Notes , 23-27. 2 Thes . 2:3,4.
Rev. 13:5 -7. 17:3-5.)-'I conceive that "the little 'horn," and "the two-horned beast," represent 'the very same ecclesiastical power; the one 'symbolizing that power, at its first rise; the 'other, when it had grown up into a catholic 'empire, by having the saints delivered into its 'hand.' Hence we find, that Daniel, 'who 'largely describes "the little horn," makes no 'mention of "the two-horned beast;" while St. John, who describes "the two-horned beast," styling him "a false prophet," makes no men'tion of the little horn. Faber , Vol. I. p. 143. ( Notes , Rev. 13:11,12. 19:17-21, v. 20.)
V. 9-12. The prophet continued to contemplate the scene, till at length all "these thrones were cast down;" and "the Ancient of days," or the eternal God who existed from everlasting, was emblematically represented as placed on his throne. "His garment, white as snow," ," was the emblem of his most perfect "justice and holiness;" "the hair of his head like the pure wool," denoted his unerring wisdom and awful majesty; "his throne like the fiery flame" signified his terrible vengeance on the wicked; and "his wheels" (on which it was fixed as a chariot) "as burning fire," shewed that his providence would execute the awful sentence of his justice on his enemies. ( Marg . Ref . z-d.- Notes , Ps . 68:17,18. Is . 6:1-4. Ez . 1:15
Lombards, the state of Rome, and the author- | -28. 10:18,19. 11:22–25. Rev. 4:1-5.) This
ity of the Roman Pontiff, of which two, the Exarchate of Ravenna, and the state of Rome, were not among the ten primary kingdoms. In this horn , were "eyes like the eyes of a man."
was also denoted, and its terror illustrated, by "the fiery stream that came forth from before him." An immense multitude of angels ministered unto him; and unnumbered millions of
This circumstance denoted the policy, sagaci- his creatures were gathered before his tributy, and watchfulness, by which the little hornnal: for "the judgment was set, and the books would spy out occasions of extending and es-ll were opened;" the book of his law, and of these !
hold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to m the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him.
14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all peo- ple, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting do- minion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.
[Practical Observations.]
IPs. 8:4,5. Is. 9:6,7. F.z. 1:26. | Matt. 11:27. 28:18. Luke 10:
Matt. 13:41. 24:30. 25:31. 26: 64. Mark 13:26. 14:61,62. Luke 21:27,36. John 3:13. 5: 27. 12:34. Acts 7:56. Phil. 2:6-8. Heb. 2:14. Rev. 1:7, 13,18. 14:14.
m 9,22.
n Ps. 47:5, 68:17,18. Jer. 49: 19. Eph. 1:20,21. 1 Tim. 6: 16. Heb. 9:24.
o 27. Ps. 2:6-8. 8:6. 110:1,2.
22. 19:11,12. John 3:35, 5:22 -27. 1 Cor. 15:27. Eph. 1: 22. Phil. 2:9-11. 1 Pet. 3: 22. Rev. 3:21.
p 3:4. Ps. 72:17. 1s. 60:12. Rev. 11:15. 17:14.
q 18,27. 2:35,44. 4:3. 6:26. Ps. 45:6. 145:13. 146:10. Is. 9:7. Ob. 21. Mic. 4:7. Luke 1:33. John 12:34. 1 Cor. 15:24-28. Heb. 12:28.
prophecies, and the register of the offences of the criminals to be judged, &c. ( Marg . Ref . e -g.-Notes, Deut. 33:2. Jude 14-16. Rev. 20: 11-15.)-This language is especially applica- ble to the general judgment; but that cannot be the prophetical meaning of the passage: for it is plain that God the Father is here spoken of as the Judge; whereas the Son will appear as the sole Judge in the day of final retribution: the fulfilment of this prophecy will precede the
15 I Daniel was grieved in my spirit in the midst of my body, and the visions of my head troubled me.
16 I came near unto one of them that stood by, and asked him the truth of all this. So he told me, and made me know the interpretation of the things.
17 These "great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth.
18 But the saints of the most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever.
19 Then I would know the truth of the
r 28. 8:27. Jer. 15:17,18. 17:16. Hab. 3:16. Luke 19:41-44. Rom. 9:2,3. Rev. 10:9-11. *Chal. sheath.
s See on 2:1,3. 4:5. Gen. 40:7, 8. 41:8.
t 10. 8:13-16. 10:5,6,11,12. 12: 5,6. Zech. 1:8-11. 2:3. 3:7. Rev. 5:5. 7:13,14.
u 3,4. 2:37-40. 8:19-22. x See on 3.-Ps. 17:14. John 18:36. Rev. 13:1,11.
y 22,27. Ps. 45:16. 149:5-9. Is. 60:12-14. 2 Tim. 2:11,12. Rev. 2:26,27. 3:21. 5:10. 20:4. † Chal. high ones, that is, things, or, places.
z See on 7. 2:40-43.
glory: this must point out Christ to us, as the eternal Son of God, appearing in human nature, ascending to heaven, the throne of God, to receive the kingdom covenanted to him. ( Note , Ps . 2:7-9.) He came to "the Ancient of days," who sat on the throne, and was brought in before him by the angelic attendants; and he received a glorious, universal, and everlasting kingdom, which would never vanish, or be subverted, or succeeded by any othintroduction of the millennium; the final judg-er.-"This passage not only shews, that the ment will succeed to the consummation of all 'setting up of the everlasting kingdom, was to
things here on earth. In short, this was spo- ken of the coming of the Lord, to destroy the kingdon of the little horn, and to set up the kingdom of God on earth.
For the great God, being filled with indignation at the blasphem- ous words of this proud and impious usurper, will destroy all the remains of the power of the fourth beast, to which it belongs; that is, of the Roman empire, as inimical to the cause of Christ: and his body shall be destroyed and given to the flames; because the little horn was the ringleader to the beast, in tyranny, cruelty, and idolatry; and because of the close connex- ion between it and the other ten horns.
Rome will be wholly desolated, and her hierarchy abolished; every antichristian power will be crushed; and the whole will be reduced under the government of Christ, and those who rule under him and for him. ( Marg . Ref . h, i.- Notes, 15-22.
Rev. 18: 19:)-The other beasts had indeed been deprived of dominion, yet "their lives were prolonged for a season:" the countries, which had been governed by the Chaldeans, Persians, and Macedonians, though no longer in possession of empire, yet contin- ued under the government of idolaters, or ene- mies to true religion; for "a beast" in the pro- phetical language is an idolatrous , or persecut- ing power: but when the fourth beast shall lose his authority, his life also shall be taken away, and no idolatrous or antichristian power shall remain in any nation; for at that time the other beasts shall be slain, slain, which is clearly intimated slain, by "their lives being prolonged for a season." If the existence of these idolatrous latrous empires empires is to be continued through the millennium, and to the end of the world, as some expositors state, what can be the meaning of the words, "for a season?" ( Marg . and Marg .
Ref . Note , Rev. 20:7-10, conclusion . )
V. 13, 14. The prophet further saw "one like the Son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven," that is, with divine majesty and VOL. IV.
'happen in the times of the fourth, or Roman, 'monarchy; but also, that it would happen 'when the Son of man would ascend from 'earth to heaven. ... The prophet does not rep'resent him, as coming in the clouds, from 'heaven to earth, (as at the general judgment,) 'but as coming with the clouds of heaven from 'his former residence, towards the throne of 'God; which according to the scripture-style is 'heaven. And this is confirmed by the words 'immediately following; that "they brought him 'near before him," viz. before the Ancient of 'days....
Though the immediate Ruler of this 'kingdom is called "the Son of man;" yet it is 'obvious, that there is something very amazing in the prophetic description of the high honor 'and glory, that should be given to him!
Who'ever considers these expressions' (in the fourteenth verse,) 'with impartiality,... whatever be 'his sentiments otherwise about the Person 'spoken of, must own, that there is at least 'some difficulty, in conceiving how such everlasting glory and dominion should belong to 'any one, who should be no more than the Son 'of man, or a mere creature; and particularly 'in conceiving how such magnificent things 'should be ascribed to one, who was no more 'than the Son of man, by ... the prophets, who 'inculcated so strongly and justly, that all mere 'creatures, are before God, as nothing, and less 'than nothing.
Maclaurin . When Christ was about to ascend into heaven, he said, "All power is given to me, in heaven and earth." (Notes, Matt . 28:18. Eph . 1:15-22. Phil . 2:911.) Then his kingdom began to be set up, and the power of the fourth kingdom to decline: but it is plain from the eleventh verse, that the grand event predicted in this passage is, his glorious coming g to destroy the kingdom of every Antichristian power, and to render his own kingdom universal upon earth. ( Marg . Ref. Ref .- Notes , Notes, 23-27. Rev. 11:15-18. 20:1-6.)
V. 15-18. When Daniel had considered [665
fourth beast, which was diverse from all the others, exceeding dreadful, whose teeth were of iron, and his nails of brass; which devoured, brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet;
20 And of the ten horns that were in his head, and of the other which came up, and before whom three fell; even of that horn that had eyes, and a mouth that spake very great things, whose look was more stout than his fellows.
21 I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them;
22 Until the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom.
23 Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms,
these emblems of future times, he foresaw that idolatrous empires would occasion great and durable calamities to the church of God, before a happy event could be expected: yet he did not fully understand what was meant, nor how matters would end; and he was therefore much grieved and troubled in mind. ( Marg . and Marg. Ref . r, s.) So that, desiring information from one of the numerous attendants "of Him that sat on the throne," he received the following interpretation.
In general, the four beasts, signified "four kings," or kingdoms, that were to arise up on earth, which would oppose the church of God: yet the saints would at length "take the kingdom, and possess it for ever," not only personally in heaven, but collectively on earth, after the ruin of the fourth kingdom; for they would rule with Christ to the end of time, and nothing would succeed this kingdom on earth, but the everlasting glory of heaven. ( Marg . Ref . y . Notes , 19-22. 2: 34,35,44,45.
Is . 2:2-5.) It is with reference to this, probably, that the apostle says, "The promise that he should be the heir of the world was given to Abraham." (Note, Rom . 4:13.)
Out of the earth . (17) 'Shall be of the earth, 'earthy, and have nothing of an heavenly 'spirit in them: whereas the kingdom of Christ 'is an heavenly kingdom, which the saints 'shall possess.' Lowth . ( Marg . Ref . x.)
and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces.
24 And & the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise: b and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings.
25 And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws; and they shall be given into his hand, until a time, and times, and the dividing of time.
26 But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end.
27 And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, 20. Rev. 12.3. 13:1. 17:3,12, Thes. 2:4. 1 Tim. 4:1-3.
13,16-18.
h See on 8,20. 8:9-12. 11:36. 2 Thes. 2:3-10. 1 Tim. 4:1-3. i 8,20. 8:24,25. 11:36,37. Is. 37: 23. 2 Thes. 2:4. Rev. 13:5, 6,11.
k Rev. 6:9,10. 11:7-10. 13:7- 10. 14:12. 16:6. 17:6. 18:24. 12:21. 11:31,36-38. 12:11.2
Rev. 13:15-17.
m 4:25,32. 12:7,11,12. Rev. 11: 2,3. 12:6,14. 13:5.
n See on 10,11,22. 2 Thes. 2:9. Rev. 11:13. 20:10,11.
o See on 14,18,22. Ps. 149:5 9. 19. 49:23-26.54:3. 60:1116. Zeph. 3:19,20. Zech. 14:9. Rev. 20:4.
the seat of the fourth kingdom, the body of the beast, was in the west!-The prophet, however, supposed this to represent some more formidable enemy of the church, than any of the others; as well as far more powerful and oppressive in its conquests.
He wanted also to know more concerning the ten horns; but especially "the little horn," of which be had further observed, that "his look was more stout than his fellows." The Roman court and Pontiff, from very inconsiderable beginnings, for many ages domineered over those kingdoms intended by the ten horns, in the most audacious manner; laying them under interdicts and excommunications, levying heavy taxes on them; deposing kings, and disposing of their dominions; absolving their subjects from their oaths of allegiance, and exciting them to rebellions and insurrections; claiming a supremacy in all causes; and so trampling on the greatest monarchs, as never was done by any other power.
Daniel had also noticed, that this horn had "made war with the saints, and prevailed against them:" and accordingly the persecutions, massacres, and religious wars, excited by the church and bishop of Rome, have occasioned the shedding of far more blood of the saints of God, than all the persecutions of professed heathens from the foundation of the world. ( Marg . Ref . c.- Notes , Rev 11:7-12. 13:5-7. 17:9-14.) This is the char
sat-acter of the same power, described by St. John as "the great harlot, who was drunk with the blood of the saints and martyrs of Jesus." ( Note , Rev. 1/7:6.)-It was predicted also that this horn would prevail against the saints, "until the Ancient of days should come," to give judgment against it, in favor of his saints; and till they should be put in full possession of the kingdom, as one with Christ their glorious Head; and this certainly refers to future times. Note , 8.) These were the particulars, which Daniel wanted to have interpreted to him: and there was a great propriety, in matters of this nature being thus fully revealed to him, whose
V. 19-22. Daniel seems to have been isfied with knowing in general, that the three first kingdoms would resemble such monarchies, as he had seen: but he was anxious to learn more about the kingdom, intended by the fourth beast, which was so different from all the rest, and so formidable with "teeth of tron, and nails of brass." ( Note , 7.)-The "nails of brass" were not before mentioned. Brass was the emblem of the third kingdom in Nebuchadnezzar's dream, (2:39.) and some suppose this to intimate, that the fourth kingdom would employ the power of the third kingdom in the east, to oppress other nations; though
Pwhose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, 28 Hitherto is the end of the matter. and all * dominions shall serve and obey As for me Daniel, my cogitations much
him . p 2:44. 4:34. Ps. 145:13. Is. 9: 7. Luke 1:33. Joha 12:34. qPs. 2:6-12. 22:27,28. 72:11.
86:9. Is. 60:12. Ob. 21. Rev. 11:15.
Or, rulers. Rev. 17:14. 19:16.
chief concern must be about the affairs of the church and of true religion: whilst Nebuchadnezzar's dream, of the same four monarchies, related wholly to their temporal dominion. ( Marg . and Marg . Ref . z-b. d, e.)
V. 23-27. The answer of the angel, to
influence over them, and their destruction, as well as his, in consequence of this connexion; evidently shew, that this was what the prophet beheld with astonishment. And has not the papal power arrogated the prerogative of making times holy or unholy, contrary to the
Daniel's inquiry, has been particularly advert-word of God? Has it not commanded men ev
ed to in the preceding interpretation. He informed the prophet, that "the fourth beast should be the fourth kingdom," which should arise upon earth; and this could be no other than the Roman empire. This would be "diverse from all kingdoms:" the kingdoms of Alexander's successors were not remarkably different from those which had preceded them; but the Roman state was entirely dissimilar from them all, in its forms of government, and in various particulars.
It would "devour the whole earth, and tread it down and break it in pieces." If we should explain this only of the land of Judah, it is obvious that the Chaldeans caused more grievous and permanent calamities to that land, than ever the successors of Alexander did; yet nothing comparable to those inflicted by the Romans: but it evidently refers to their extensive conquests in every part of the known world.
When this kingdom had been divided into ten horns, or kingdoms, "another should come up after them," "diverse from the first," who should "subdue three kings," or three of the kingdoms before mentioned. ( Marg . Ref . f-h.) But how was Antiochus Epiphanes different from his predecessors? Or how could he subdue three
ery where to abstain from meat, and cease from work, when God required no such thing? has it not multiplied its holy days, till scarcely four of the six working days have been left for man's labor? at the same time, has it not licensed intemperance and excess on its festivals and carnivals, and authorized licentious diversions on the Lord's own holy day? This power has pretended to change God's laws, or to dispense with obedience to them, that its own new laws might be observed, forbidding to marry, and licensing fornication, and many things of this sort. ( Marg .
Ref . 1.- Notes , 11: 36,37. 1 Tim . 4:1-5. Rev. 13:11-17.)-Thus matters would be left in his hands, "till a time, and times, and the dividing of time," that is, for three years and a half, or forty-two months, which, reckoning thirty days to a month, (and this was the general computation,) make just one thousand two hundred and sixty days; and those prophetical days signify one thousand two hundred and sixty years; a number which we shall repeatedly meet with in the Revelation of St. John. ( Marg . Ref . m. -Notes , 12:5-9, v. 7.
Rev. 11:1-6, n . 2,3. 12:3–6, ν. 6,12-17, υ. 14. 13:5-7, v . 5.) At the expiration of this term, the dominion of this horn will cease: he will be sion before him? Or how could he come up, thority never revived to the end of the world. " after the ten horns," if he were one of them? Then "the kingdom, under the whole heaven, We can therefore find this little horn no will be given to the people of the saints." ( Notes , where, but within the Roman empire.
The 13-18.) The most High will set up his evermonstrous power of the church and bishop of lasting and universal kingdom; all other rulers Rome, has been far more different from every and governors will serve and obey him. Can been other species of tyranny, than the Roman ein- this mean any thing less, than a universal pire was from all other monarchies: and it has prevalence of true religion, under the counbeen seen how this power subdued three of tenance of Christian princes, even to the end the ten kingdoms.
This little horn would of the world, without any remarkable declen"speak great things against the most High:" sion, or successful opposition? And has not let it be noted how much emphasis is laid on enough of this extraordinary prophecy been this circumstance; and we have noticed, and already already fulfilled, to warrant our assurance, shall have frequent occasion to mention, some that the remainder will be so too, as well as of the blasphemous and impious words of the to demonstrate the divinity of the scriptures?
Roman Antichrist. ( Note , 8.)-He would also - Thus the second, as well as the first, "wear out the saints of the most High." The 'prophecy of this ais book, relating to the four empersecutions of Antiochus Epiphanes anes were were only 'pires, reaches down below the end of the Rofor a few years: whereas those of the popedom dom man empire, and to the universal empire of
of the kings, which were in order of succes-judged, condemned, and consumed, and his au
and its instruments have continued through 'the Messiah.... The great things said to be many centuries; and, though now somewhat 'done by the little horn, and the continuance suspended, are probably not terminated: so 'of his power to the time of the universal conthat their duration and severity have "worn 'version of the nations, put it beyond all quesout the saints" of God, more than any other 'tion, that it is not one particular person that
persecutions ever did.-He would also "think," ersecution 'is meant, but a very long succession.
He is or devise, "to change times and laws." It 'never called any other than "a little horn." could not be considered as any thing very sin- 'His greatness is chiefly placed in great words gular, for a king to alter the laws in his own and looks, joined with singular penetration dominions, or as to secular matters; and no 'and cunning; which is of itself a presumption, change, greatly for the worse, could be made in 'that the great things he was to accomplish, the religious laws and customs of the idolatrous 'would be owing to the power of others, volnations: but that the little horn should pre- 'untarily giving their power to him, after havsume to change the laws respecting religion, ing been seduced by him....
The following (not excepting the laws of God,) and this 'small number of characters, to be gathered by through the dominions of the other ten horns, 'plain and easy reasoning from a few passages as well as in his own kingdom, would be won- in one prophet,' (Daniel,) 'make up a singular
derful indeed. The close connexion, however, 'description, not applicable to any power, that of this little horn with the other ten horns; its l'ever was or will be, but one.... A seducing
troubled me, and my countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart.
t Gen. 37:10,11. Mark 9:10. Luke 2:19,51. 9:44.
'power that was to arise, after the conversion, 'the downfal, and division, of the Roman em'pire, established in the western parts of that
gain the dominion, by making havoc of the human species, and trampling men under their feet: and many around them, by their flatter
'empire, when divided into so many' (ten) 'sov-ing encomiums and delusive oratory, call on
'power
'ereignties; little, in comparison of these others 'as to secular authority; but claiming and ob- 'taining an universal spiritual authority over 'the body of the western kingdoms; acquiring and m maintaining this through policy and 'craft; ... procuring a voluntary surrender of ower from really superior sovereigns; im- 'proving it so, as to be a ringleader to these 'others in apostacy, persecution, and various 'kinds of opposition to the truth; and con- 'tinuing to exert such power for such ends, 'during a considerable number of ages.' Ma- claurin. (Note, Rev. 17:9-14.) From care- fully comparing what different exp expositors have stated concerning this "little horn," and and the time at which the predicted term of 1260 years began, with the prophecies prophecies themselves, I am led to conclude, that "the little horn" was in existence for a considerable time before he was possessed either of ecclesiastical or tem- poral dominion.
That he sprang up soon af- ter the en empire was divided into ten kingdoms. (Note, 2 Thes . 2:5-7.) That, though the bishop of Rome even then, nay before, made arrogant claims; yet the little horn was comparatively harmless, till by the decree of Phocas he was constituted 'UNIVERSAL BISHOP, AND SUPREME 'HEAD OF THE CHURCH, A. D. 606. That by this decree, "the saints, and the times and laws, were given into his hand:" (25) he had the power of persecuting and domination, whether he immediately exercised it, or not.
And that the 1260 years are to be dated from his being thus invested with absolute ecclesi- astical dominion, and not from his becoming a temporal potentate, which did not occur till a later period. This is indeed the abstract of Mr. Faber's copious argument on this subject; in which he very successfully shews, that sev- eral other computations are inconsistent with themselves, as well as with each other; and imply, that the little horn, in many ways, was active and successful, before the time at which they date his beginning to exist. ( Faber , Vol.
I. pp. 139-170.) From the obscurity, how- ever, of prophecy, previous to its fulfilment, we are cautioned not confidently to assign the date of future events: but, probably, at the end of 1260 years from A. D. 606, the glorious events predicted will begin to receive a re- markable accomplishment.
them to "arise and devour much flesh." The greater renown such chieftains receive from posterity , the more mischievous were they to their contemporaries : and whilst our youth are taught to admire the exploits of the Greeks and Romans, they are seldom led to reflect on the dire carnage, and widely spread desolations, which their wars occasioned.
No savage beast, nor even the worst qualities of them all put together, can equal the odious constituents of an ambitious conqueror's character: and an Alexander, or a Julius Cæsar, may be considered as a compound of pride, ambition, selfishness, rage, and cruelty; whilst he can glory in the slaughter of a million of his own species, for the sole purpose of advancing his own reputation and greatness, or of extending the dominions and wealth of his idolized country.
But when we look at such beasts as dreadful and terrible, and exceedingly strong, and consider their fatal successes; we should recollect, that that they are under the secret direction of God, whose "counsel shall stand, and he will do all his pleasure:" and thus we shall be preserved from either admiring or dreading them.
For these lions, and monsters of more savage breed, are all chained: the dominion given them has its appointed extent and duration; their wrath shall turn to the praise of the Lord, and "the remainder of it he will restrain." Whilst he has work for them as his executioners, they have rapid success; when that is done they disappear, or are broken in pieces: and as one of them after another is removed, and the earth seems to be at rest, being delivered from a scourge and a curse; another rises up perhaps still more outrageous and mischievous.
But, in whatever form, age, or place, they "practise and prosper;" or whatever be their courage and sagacity, or their arrogance, impiety, and cruelty, in war, or in persecution; their thrones will be cast down, to make way for the kingdom of "the Ancient of days," the everlasting God, whose works and counsels are all in glorious justice, holiness, wisdom, and majesty; and whose wrath is a devouring fire against all his enemies.
He will "put down all authority" which exalts itself against him: and the terrible displays of his power and wrath, in his temporal judgments on the nations, form an emblem of that
V. 28. Daniel, from this interpretation, fore-day, when we must all appear before his tri
seeing the calamities of the church, for so long a season previous to the joyful termination of them, was greatly troubled in mind, which affected his body also. He, however, laid up the matter in his memory and heart, that he might meditate on it, and derive instruction from it. ( Marg . Ref . Notes , 15-18. 8:27. Hab . 3:16.)
PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS.
V. 1-14.
bunal to give an account of our works: "when the books shall be opened, and all, whose names shall not be found written in the book of life, will be cast into the lake of fire;" "when thousand thousands shall minister unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand shall stand before him." Ere that solemn decisive season shall arrive, for the manifestation of the glory of God to all worlds, in his dealings with his creatures; the doom of each of us will be determined, at the hour of our death: and before the end shall come, the Father will openly and actually give unto his incarnate Son, our Mediator and Judge, the inheritance of the nations, as his willing subjects. Of this he gave a proof, when he "raised him from the dead, and gave him glory:" when the divine Savior ascended up on high, and was brought by his attending angels before the Ancient of days; and when all "power in heaven and
Those splendid achievements, and that extensive authority, which excite admiration, applause, envy, or ambition, often rank men with destructive hurricanes and savage beasts, in the judgment of God and of his saints. These are the instruments of divine vengeance on a guilty world, which is kept in perpetual agitation by their contest; as the great sea is by the raging of the conflicting winds. They are indeed diverse from each other; but agree in their aim to aggrandize themselves, and tollearth was given to him."