Daniel 7-12

7

Daniel dreams of four beasts: lion/eagle, bear, leopard, and vicious iron beast.

This parallels chapter 2: Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome.

During the last beast's reign, all dominion is given to the son of man when he ascends to the Ancient of Days.

8

Daniel has another vision of a ram (Medo-Persia) conquering, but then conquered by a goat (Greece), which divides into 4 (kingdoms after Alexander).  One of these, who rules in Israel is pointed out as especially evil and harmful to God's people (probably Antiochus Epiphanes who rules and defiles the temple).

9

While reading Jeremiah and learning of the 70 year length of exile, Daniel is prompted to confess Israel's sins.  Gabriel comes, assures him he is loved, and predicts the time between the rebuilding of the temple and the coming of Jesus Christ and destruction of Jerusalem.

10

An angel appears to Daniel who takes his breath away, literally.  He is involved in angelic warfare over Persia and Greece, Michael helping him so he can come speak to Daniel.  He strengthens him so Daniel can listen and speak.

11

A detailed prophecy culminating in the rise and persecutions of Antiochus Epiphanes, who ravaged Judea and set up a statue/altar to Zeus in the temple.

12

Michael will guard Israel.  The resurrection to glory or to contempt will come.  3.5 years are specified, but the book is closed until the time is nearer at hand.

Application

Much of this is obscure history, but we can take from it that God is in control of every geo-political turn of events, with an eye on His people's welfare.

Revelation 22:10 God tells John not to seal the book, since the time is near - the opposite of what Daniel is told in 12:9.