The Church Fathers on this verse

Daniel 7:21Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

I beheld, and lo, that horn made war against the saints, and prevailed over them,

Douay-Rheims

חָזֵ֣ה הֲוֵ֔ית וְקַרְנָ֣א דִכֵּ֔ן עָבְדָ֥ה קְרָ֖ב עִם־קַדִּישִׁ֑ין וְיָכְלָ֖ה לְהֽוֹן׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Church Fathers comment on this verse

John Chrysostom

4th centuryChurch Father

Why did you not utter this word, O mankind? It was not directed towards the Jews; rather, God conveyed it in private, storing it in the heart of the prophet. Ultimately, he declares that these messages are hidden and sealed until the end times (Dan. 12:9), wishing for them to remain unclear. Christ similarly employs parables in his teachings. Observe how the prophet magnifies this dominion, emphasizing that it transcends human understanding. Although humanity may control all the earth, such possession cannot be eternal or limitless. Let no one suggest that the prophet implies a brief duration. What is meant by the phrase, ‘This kingdom shall not be given to another people’ (Dan. 2:44)? Consider the events that unfolded during the reign of Darius and the Macedonians.

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To whom was it granted? To the Jews. Consequently, it is noted that Alexander worshipped at the temple upon encountering the book of Daniel, and the Gentiles were astounded by the accuracy of its prophecy. This prophet was the only one to proclaim such truths.

Hippolytus of Rome

2nd centuryChurch Father

Having seized control of everything, he, as a harsh oppressor, will inflict suffering and persecution upon those he rules.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.