Daniel Chapter 7

[Zachary]

Was just reading Daniel 7. As a “returning home” Catholic, I really am out of touch with most of the Bible (besides what’s been read at Mass for the past 10 years.) Who can shed some light on what’s been said about the 4 beasts? Is it prophesy that’s been fulfilled? Kinda of made me think of Revalations and the Malachi list … fill me in, friends.

The Grace of the Loard Jesus be with you all. - Rev 22:21

 

[Fidelis]

This is kind of a complex passage of Scripture to exegete. It has had various interpretations through the centuries. One interpretation that should be avoided is the pre-millenial/dipensationalist “Left Behind” one that claims to find fulfilment of biblical prophecy in current events and is intrinsically anti-Catholic. For more info on the flaws in this theology, see Carl Olsen’s webpage found here:

carl-olson.com/rapture_articles.html

Basically, Daniel 7 is a recapitulation of chapter 2 – the dream of King Nebuchadnezzer of four kingdoms, his being the first and the others succeeding his. Historically, Christians have found verses 44-45, “the stone not made by human hands,” to be a prophecy of the Church, that will overcome the final and most powerful kingdom, thought to be the Roman Empire.

If you would like to read a serious (but easy to read) study on this topic, I heartily recommend “Rapture: The End-Times Error That Leaves the Bible Behind” by David Currie. He has an entire chapter on Daniel 7 and it makes for fascinating reading.