Daniel 8:24Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The prophet indicates the craftiness of Antiochus and also highlights the power he has gained. He emphasizes that Antiochus acts solely by God's allowance, stating that it is not by his own might. God communicates through the Prophet Isaiah to the king of Assyria, asking, "When will the axe be exalted without the one who wields it? Or will the saw rise without the one who uses it?" (Isaiah 10:15). Therefore, it is conveyed that Antiochus will take bold actions not due to his own strength, but rather because God permits him to do so.