Beginning with chapter eight, the book of Daniel reverts to Hebrew. Though apocalyptic, this chapter is fundamentally historical, theological, and practical. It shows what will happen and who is in control. When Israel was marginalized and tested, God revealed the rise and fall of empires from heaven’s view. The strange imagery shows that rulers, no matter how powerful, are subject to God’s divine timeline. This chapter speaks to believers, reminding them that God is not surprised by evil or tyrants. Just as Daniel remained faithful in the face of uncertainty, believers should do the same. The vision of the ram and goat assures that kingdoms rise and fall, but God’s purposes endure forever.
