The Church Fathers on this verse

Daniel 7:22Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Till the ancient of days came and gave judgment to the saints of the most High, and the time came, and the saints obtained the kingdom.

Douay-Rheims

עַ֣ד דִּֽי־אֲתָ֗ה עַתִּיק֙ יֽוֹמַיָּ֔א וְדִינָ֣א יְהִ֔ב לְקַדִּישֵׁ֖י עֶלְיוֹנִ֑ין וְזִמְנָ֣א מְטָ֔ה וּמַלְכוּתָ֖א הֶחֱסִ֥נוּ קַדִּישִֽׁין׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Church Fathers comment on this verse

John Chrysostom

4th centuryChurch Father

Why did you, O man, refrain from uttering this word? It was not directed toward the Jews; rather, God conveyed it in a private manner, preserving it within the heart of the prophet. Ultimately, the prophet declares, These words are hidden and sealed until the end time (Dan. 12:9), expressing a desire for them to remain veiled. Christ himself follows this pattern by speaking in parables. Observe how the prophet extols this kingdom in every aspect, ensuring that nothing is comprehensible on a human level. Despite having dominion over the entire earth, humans cannot secure it eternally or without limit. Let no one suggest that the prophet is referring to a brief period. What do the words mean, ‘This kingdom shall not be given to another nation’ (Dan. 2:44)?

Read more (54 words)

Consider what transpired during the reign of Darius and the Macedonians. To whom was it granted? To the Jews. Thus, it is said that Alexander revered the temple upon discovering the book of Daniel, while the Gentiles were astonished by the foresight of his prophecy. No one acknowledged this except for this prophet alone.

Theodoret of Cyrus

5th centuryChurch Father

The Prophet inquires whether there is an explanation for the horn that exhibits pride, utters haughty words, and brings dishonor to the assembly of the saints, until the Ancient of Days issues a righteous judgment against him, grants authority to the saints, and destroys his dominion.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.