Daniel 7:25
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Daniel 7:25
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.
Chapter Context
Daniel 7 is a apocalyptic and narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, grace, obedience. Written during the Babylonian and Persian periods (c. 605-530 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Demonstrates faithful living under foreign rule during the Babylonian and Persian empires.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Daniel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Daniel 7:25
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.
Analysis
The little horn's blasphemous career continues: '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.' The phrase 'speak great words against the most High' indicates sustained blasphemy. 'Wear out' (Aramaic: belah, exhaust, harass) describes relentless persecution. Attempting to 'change times and laws' shows rebellion against God's established order. The 'time and times and dividing of time' (3.5 times/years) appears throughout apocalyptic literature as period of tribulation (Revelation 11:2-3; 12:6, 14; 13:5).
Historical Context
Antiochus IV persecuted Jews, forbade Sabbath and circumcision, changed feast times, and attempted to Hellenize Jewish religion—partial fulfillment. The language exceeds Antiochus, pointing to Antichrist's future persecution (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Revelation 13:5-7). The 3.5 years appears throughout Scripture as period of intense but limited persecution. God's sovereignty limits persecution's duration—saints given into the oppressor's hand for predetermined time only. Throughout history, this passage encouraged persecuted believers that suffering has divine limits.
Reflection
- How does the limited duration (3.5 times) provide hope that even intense persecution has God-appointed boundaries?
- What does the attempt to change times and laws teach about rebellion's ultimate goal—usurping God's authority over creation's order?
Cross-References
- Holy: Daniel 12:7, Isaiah 37:23, Revelation 17:6, 18:24
- Parallel theme: Daniel 2:21, 7:8, 7:20, 2 Thessalonians 2:4, Revelation 12:6, 12:14