Daniel 7:25

“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.”

Context:This verse is a part of a vision that Daniel received, describing various beasts and empires that would rise to power in the future. In this specific verse, the focus is on a particular ruler who would oppose God and persecute God’s people.

Interpreting this verse requires understanding the context of Daniel’s vision. In the preceding verses, Daniel sees four beasts that represent four successive empires: the Babylonian Empire, the Medo-Persian Empire, the Greek Empire, and the Roman Empire. These empires are portrayed as oppressive and hostile to God’s people.

In verse 25, the focus shifts to a specific ruler who would arise within the fourth empire, which is commonly interpreted as the Roman Empire. This ruler is described as one who “shall speak great words against the most High.” This suggests that he would be boastful and arrogant, possibly even blaspheming God or claiming god-like status for himself.

The verse further states that this ruler would “wear out the saints of the most High.” This indicates that he would persecute and oppress God’s faithful people. The term “wear out” implies that he would subject them to continuous harassment, affliction, and suffering.

Additionally, the ruler would “think to change times and laws.” This suggests that he would attempt to alter established customs, regulations, and religious practices, possibly in an effort to undermine God’s laws and authority. This could involve introducing new laws or imposing restrictions on worship and religious observance.

The verse concludes by stating that the saints would be given into his hand “until a time and times and the dividing of time.” The phrase “a time and times and the dividing of time” is interpreted as a period of three and a half years, which signifies a limited time of persecution and oppression. This time frame is also mentioned in other parts of the Book of Daniel and is associated with significant events and trials for God’s people.

Overall, Daniel 7:25 provides a glimpse into the rise of a powerful ruler within the Roman Empire who would exalt himself, oppress the saints, and seek to undermine God’s authority. This verse serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by God’s people and the endurance required to remain faithful in the face of persecution.