Daniel 7:20
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.
Original Language Analysis
וְעַל
And of
H5922
וְעַל
And of
Strong's:
H5922
Word #:
1 of 23
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
דִּ֣י
H1768
דִּ֣י
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
4 of 23
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
דִּ֣י
H1768
דִּ֣י
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
7 of 23
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
וּנְפַ֥לָו
fell
H5308
וּנְפַ֥לָו
fell
Strong's:
H5308
Word #:
9 of 23
to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
מִן
and before
H4481
מִן
and before
Strong's:
H4481
Word #:
10 of 23
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of
רַבְרְבָ֔ן
very great things
H7260
רַבְרְבָ֔ן
very great things
Strong's:
H7260
Word #:
19 of 23
huge (in size); domineering (in character)
Cross References
Daniel 7:8I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things.Daniel 7:23Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces.
Historical Context
Antiochus IV Epiphanes' arrogant self-designation ("Epiphanes" = "God Manifest") and persecution of Jews provided initial fulfillment. However, the detailed attention and connection to final judgment (v. 11) indicate primary reference to eschatological antichrist. The pattern shows historical figures foreshadowing greater future fulfillment—Antiochus typed the coming man of lawlessness.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the little horn's combination of intelligence and blasphemy warn about sophisticated modern opposition to Christian truth?
- What does the emphasis on presumptuous speech teach about recognizing and resisting claims to authority that belong only to God?
- How should knowing that apparent greatness will be destroyed encourage resistance to cultural pressure to acknowledge false authorities?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Daniel's continued inquiry focuses on "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." The little horn receives disproportionate attention, indicating its unique significance. The phrase "whose look was more stout" (literally "appearance greater") suggests this figure's presumptuous arrogance exceeding normal human pride.
The "eyes" signify intelligence and perception—this isn't mere brute force but sophisticated cunning. The "mouth that spake very great things" emphasizes blasphemous speech against God (v. 25). The combination warns that final opposition combines intellectual sophistication, political cunning, and spiritual blasphemy. Modern believers face increasingly sophisticated attacks on Christian truth through academic, media, and governmental channels—patterns prefiguring the little horn's comprehensive opposition.
The detail that this horn appeared greater than its fellows despite starting small illustrates how pride and blasphemy magnify themselves beyond actual status. Antichrist will present himself as humanity's savior and ultimate authority, demanding worship (2 Thessalonians 2:4, Revelation 13:4). Yet despite impressive appearance, this figure faces certain destruction (v. 11). Christ, truly great though appearing humble, will destroy all false greatness at His return (Philippians 2:5-11).