In Daniel 7, the prophet receives a vision during the first year of Belshazzar’s reign. He sees four great beasts rising out of the sea, each representing different kingdoms that will emerge in the future. The first beast is like a lion with eagle’s wings, symbolizing Babylon. The second beast resembles a bear, symbolizing the Medo-Persian Empire. The third beast is a leopard with four wings and four heads, representing the Greek Empire under Alexander the Great. Lastly, a fourth beast appears, terrifying and powerful, with ten horns symbolizing ten future kingdoms.
As Daniel continues to observe, he sees a great judgment scene where the “Ancient of Days” takes His seat on a throne. Thousands of people stand before Him, and books are opened. The fourth beast is slain, and its body destroyed by fire. Then, the “Son of Man” comes before the Ancient of Days and is given authority, dominion, and an everlasting kingdom.
Daniel approaches one of those standing by and asks for an explanation. He is told that the four beasts represent four kingdoms, but the saints of the Most High will eventually receive the kingdom and possess it forever. The vision troubles Daniel, and he ponders its meaning.