The Book of Daniel

The name "Daniel" means "God is my judge." According to the Biblical book of Daniel; at a young age Daniel was carried off to Babylon where he was trained in the service of the court, under the authority of Ashpenaz. Ashpenaz was in charge of King Nebuchadnezzar's personnel palace. King Nebuchadnezzar was the King of Babylon of old. He is also said to be a type of the King of Babylon (Satan), in the end times. Daniel became famous for interpreting dreams and rose to become one of the most important figures in the court. (He lived well into the reign of the Persian conquerors). The book of Daniel is said to be the Apocalypse of the end time, and the book of Revelation an overlay of Daniel.

Daniel 1

 ¹In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it. The Lord gave Nebuchadnezzar victory over Judah. However, God has a plan here to use Nebuchadnezzar. (Jeremiah 27:6-7).

 ²And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure house of his god. When Nebuchadnezzar returned to Babylon, he took many of the sacred cups and chalices from the temple of God. (Babylon, then Medo-Persia, and would be Iran of today).

 ³And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes. King Nebuchadnezzar wanted certain children of Israel and young men of the royal family. (He was looking for men with wisdom in the Word among other things). He wanted the noble men.

 ⁴Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. Nebuchadnezzar chose the very best men (young men), he could find with no fault. Men that would be good teachers in the tongue of the Chaldeans: (The tongue of Babylon).

 ⁵And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king. He fed them the very best food and wine from his own kitchen for a three year training period of the men. The king wanted these men for his counselors and wanted them to be very educated.

 ⁶Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Four young men from the tribe of Judah who were very intelligent.

 ⁷Unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto Daniel the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego. The prince gave them all new Babylonian names. Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

 ⁸But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. Daniel did not want to defile himself by eating fat, or blood of meat. (Leviticus 3:17). The Babylonians ate rare meat and scavenger foods. (Pigs, shellfish, crabs, lobster, unclean birds etc.). "Like many today with their unhealthy diets." (One reason we are the most obese countries in the world). The Hebrews were more like vegetarians.

 ⁹Now God had brought Daniel into favour and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs. Ashpenaz the prince liked Daniel and he had sympathy for Daniels predicament. "Notice that it was God that brought Daniel in favor of the prince."

 ¹⁰And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king. The prince was worried that Daniel was not eating the food and would not be as healthy as the others. Then it would look like the prince and his supervisors were neglecting their responsibilities.

 ¹¹Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Daniel talked it over with Melzar who was appointed over Daniel and the others about the food.

 ¹²Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink. Daniel suggested a ten day diet of vegetables, lentils, peas, and water. (Vegetarian diet of mostly pods for protein).

 ¹³Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the children that eat of the portion of the king's meat: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants. At the end of the trial period, then they would see if they were as healthy as the others.

 ¹⁴So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days. The supervisor agreed to Daniels request and the trial test.

 ¹⁵And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king's meat. They all looked better and healthier than those who were eating the (fattier diet), supplied by the King.

 ¹⁶Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse. After that the steward fed them only pulse (Beans, lentils etc.). Again, a high protein vegetarian diet.

 ¹⁷As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. They were all given great ability to learn, remember and understand. Daniel could also see into the future with the help of God. (Keep in mind that it was God who gave them this wisdom).

 ¹⁸Now at the end of the days that the king had said he should bring them in, then the prince of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. At the end of the three years of training learning the Babylonian tongue, they were brought before the king.

 ¹⁹And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before the king. King Nebuchadnezzar had long talks with each of them, but none of them impressed the king as much as Daniel. So Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were put on his regular staff of advisors. (God had them right where He wanted them).

 ²⁰And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm. God simplified things in understanding for them just as He does for us today. That is why they were so wise compared to the others. When God wants you on His side to utilize you, He will open up a lot of knowledge and understanding to you. How? Through the "Holy Spirit." Remember, all wisdom comes from God. (Proverbs 2:6, James 3:13-18). 

 ²¹And Daniel continued even unto the first year of king Cyrus. Daniel held this title as the king's counselor until the first year of the reign of King Cyrus.

Daniel 2

 ¹And in the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar Nebuchadnezzar dreamed dreams, wherewith his spirit was troubled, and his sleep brake from him. Nebuchadnezzar had an terrifying dream during the night that woke him up. But, he could not remember the dream.

 ²Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the astrologers, and the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans, for to shew the king his dreams. So they came and stood before the king. He called on all his advisors together to get their advice on the matter. (Here comes the phonies).

 ³And the king said unto them, I have dreamed a dream, and my spirit was troubled to know the dream. The king told them that he had a terrifying nightmare. He could not remember what it was, but the king said that he fears some terrible tragedy awaits him.

 ⁴Then spake the Chaldeans to the king in Syriack, O king, live for ever: tell thy servants the dream, and we will shew the interpretation. Then the astrologers (speaking in Aramaic), told the king to tell them the dream and they would interpret it.

 ⁵The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, The thing is gone from me: if ye will not make known unto me the dream, with the interpretation thereof, ye shall be cut in pieces, and your houses shall be made a dunghill. The king made it very simple to all of them. Either tell me the dream or die! (You and your families). He wasn't messing around with these guys.

 ⁶But if ye shew the dream, and the interpretation thereof, ye shall receive of me gifts and rewards and great honour: therefore shew me the dream, and the interpretation thereof. But, the king made it also clear that if anyone told him about the dream and interpreted it, they would be showered with gifts and honor.

 ⁷They answered again and said, Let the king tell his servants the dream, and we will shew the interpretation of it. Tell us about the dream... If you tell us a little about the dream, we will interpret it for you.

 ⁸The king answered and said, I know of certainty that ye would gain the time, because ye see the thing is gone from me. The king replied, I can see what you are up to. You are stalling for time until the calamity comes upon me that the dream foretells. (They knew they could not tell the king anything about the dream, they were blank). So they started to make excuses.

 ⁹But if ye will not make known unto me the dream, there is but one decree for you: for ye have prepared lying and corrupt words to speak before me, till the time be changed: therefore tell me the dream, and I shall know that ye can shew me the interpretation thereof. The king said to them, if you can't tell me about the dream, you can't expect me to believe your interpretation. (Again, they were just making excuses). Daniel and the three children were there, but they also did not know the dream yet.

 ¹⁰The Chaldeans answered before the king, and said, There is not a man upon the earth that can shew the king's matter: therefore there is no king, lord, nor ruler, that asked such things at any magician, or astrologer, or Chaldean. The Chaldeans replied to the king; "There isn't a man alive who can tell others what they have dreamed." The Chaldeans tell the king, "there isn't a king in all the world who would ask such a thing."

 ¹¹And it is a rare thing that the king requireth, and there is none other that can shew it before the king, except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh. What the king requests is impossible. No one except the gods can tell you the dream, and they are not here. (Notice the lower case gods here). Speaking of their gods, not the living God.

 ¹²For this cause the king was angry and very furious, and commanded to destroy all the wise men of Babylon. The king was furious and wanted to kill all the wise men, including Daniel and the three children.

 ¹³And the decree went forth that the wise men should be slain; and they sought Daniel and his fellows to be slain. Daniel and the three children were rounded up with the rest of them to be killed.

 ¹⁴Then Daniel answered with counsel and wisdom to Arioch the captain of the king's guard, which was gone forth to slay the wise men of Babylon. Daniel answered with counsel and wisdom. Counsel and wisdom from God. (Remember, God is always in control).

 ¹⁵He answered and said to Arioch the king's captain, Why is the decree so hasty from the king? Then Arioch made the thing known to Daniel. Why is the king so angry Daniel asked. (Arioch told Daniel what had happened).

 ¹⁶Then Daniel went in, and desired of the king that he would give him time, and that he would shew the king the interpretation. Daniel went to see the king and asked the king for a little time, and he would tell him what the dream was, and what it meant. (Daniel was waiting for council from God).

 ¹⁷Then Daniel went to his house, and made the thing known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions. Daniel shared the news with the three children about what was going on. (Daniel communicating with his companions to help find an answer to the kings request). Remember that the first step to wisdom is to trust and reverence God. (Proverbs 1:7).

 ¹⁸That they would desire mercies of the God of heaven concerning this secret; that Daniel and his fellows should not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. They asked God for help concerning the dream so that hey would not be killed with the others.

 ¹⁹Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven. That night in a vision, God told Daniel what the king had dreamed. Then Daniel praised God and thanked Him. (Never forget to thank God when He gives you a new truth, or bales you out of a situation).

 ²⁰Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his. God gave Daniel the wisdom and the answer to the dream. Daniel gave God the credit and thanked Him. 

 ²¹And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding. God gives wise men their wisdom, and scholars their intelligence. (Understanding is common sense; if it does not make sense, it is not true and not of God).

 ²²He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him. God reveals mysteries beyond man's understanding. He knows all hidden things; because He is the light, and darkness is no obstacle to Him. (Share that light with others when possible).

 ²³I thank thee, and praise thee, O thou God of my fathers, who hast given me wisdom and might, and hast made known unto me now what we desired of thee: for thou hast now made known unto us the king's matter. Daniel was thanking God for the wisdom to understand the dream. God was their savior because of the knowledge He gave them. (Remember to always thank God for understanding a new truth and share that truth with others). Daniel was about to share the truth of the dream with the king.

 ²⁴Therefore Daniel went in unto Arioch, whom the king had ordained to destroy the wise men of Babylon: he went and said thus unto him; Destroy not the wise men of Babylon: bring me in before the king, and I will shew unto the king the interpretation. Daniel told Arioch not to kill the wise men of Babylon and assured him that he was ready to tell the king what he wanted to know.

 ²⁵Then Arioch brought in Daniel before the king in haste, and said thus unto him, I have found a man of the captives of Judah, that will make known unto the king the interpretation. Arioch told the king that he had found one of the Jewish captives that would tell him the dream.

 ²⁶The king answered and said to Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, Art thou able to make known unto me the dream which I have seen, and the interpretation thereof? Is this true the king said to Daniel? Can you tell me the dream and the meaning of the dream? (Daniel could, but remember it was God that gave him the interpretation, and it was God that gave the king the dream). "This will be prophecy for the end times."

 ²⁷Daniel answered in the presence of the king, and said, The secret which the king hath demanded cannot the wise men, the astrologers, the magicians, the soothsayers, shew unto the king. Can't none of your wise men tell you such things?

 ²⁸But there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days. Thy dream, and the visions of thy head upon thy bed, are these. But, there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets, and He has told you in your dream what will happen in the future. (Daniel gives God the credit for revealing the dream to him).

 ²⁹As for thee, O king, thy thoughts came into thy mind upon thy bed, what should come to pass hereafter: and he that revealeth secrets maketh known to thee what shall come to pass. You dreamed of coming events and God who reveals all secrets was speaking to you. God dealing with Nebuchadnezzar. (Jeremiah 27:6). Remember, Nebuchadnezzar was God's servant.

 ³⁰But as for me, this secret is not revealed to me for any wisdom that I have more than any living, but for their sakes that shall make known the interpretation to the king, and that thou mightest know the thoughts of thy heart. Daniel tells the king; It is not that I am wiser than any one else because I know the secret of your dream, for God showed it to me for your benefit. (Daniel wanted it known that it was God that gave the king the dream, and God that gave him the interpretation).

 ³¹Thou, O king, sawest, and behold a great image. This great image, whose brightness was excellent, stood before thee; and the form thereof was terrible. You saw a huge and powerful statue of a man shinning brilliantly. It was frightening and terrible, yet it's brightness was excellent. "This image stood before you."

 ³²This image's head was of fine gold, his breast and his arms of silver, his belly and his thighs of brass. It was a beautiful and strong looking statue made of fine gold, silver and brass. Three of the four kingdoms represented by various metals. (Head of gold = Babylon, breast and arms of silver = Medo-Persia, belly and thighs of brass = Greece).

 ³³His legs of iron, his feet part of iron and part of clay. With legs of iron: According to many scholars, this could be Western and Eastern Rome. The feet of iron and clay: Ten divisions (or ten kings), of the roman empire. Western Rome being: Britain, France, Spain, Italy, Germany. Eastern Rome being: Turkey, Greece, Syria, Egypt, Libya. Some scholars believe it has nothing to do with Rome at all. Some say they are division of countries, some are not sure. (Guess we'll just wait and see). First off, lets note that iron and clay don't mix. This makes up the base of the statue. (Not a good foundation). Next we have a gold head which is the heaviest metal described here. Then arms of silver which is also heavy. A belly and thighs of brass. "The problem here is that the image is top heavy, and again, iron and clay don't mix." (Here is the density of these materials: Gold is 19.32, Silver is 10.51, Brass is 8.55, Iron is 7.86, Clay is 1.8 to 2.6 depending on if it is wet or not). Not only is the image top heavy, but it has a weak foundation.

 ³⁴Thou sawest till that a stone was cut out without hands, which smote the image upon his feet that were of iron and clay, and brake them to pieces. As you watched, a rock was cut from the mountainside by supernatural powers. It came hurtling down toward the statue and crushed the feet of iron and clay smashing them to bits.

 ³⁵Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshingfloors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth. The whole statue collapsed into a heap of iron, clay, brass, silver, and gold. It's pieces were crushed as small as chaff and the wind blew them away. The rock that knocked the statue down became a great mountain that covered the whole earth. (The wind represents the Holy Spirit, and the rock represents Christ). The head of this statue represents the king of Babylon. Again, remember that Christ is our rock, just as the stone they rejected in (Psalm 118:22) was Christ. (The king of Babylon represents the antichrist of the end times).

 ³⁶This is the dream; and we will tell the interpretation thereof before the king. That was the dream, now we will tell you what it means.

 ³⁷Thou, O king, art a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory. You are a king over many kings. God has given you your kingdom.

 ³⁸And wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the heaven hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. Thou art this head of gold. You rule over the farthest provinces, and even the animals and birds are under your control as God decreed. (The head of gold is the king of Babylon).

 ³⁹And after thee shall arise another kingdom inferior to thee, and another third kingdom of brass, which shall bear rule over all the earth. After your kingdom, another world power will rise inferior to yours. (The Medo-Persian Empire, whose first great ruler was Cyrus). In 539 BC, the Medo-Persian Empire conquered Babylon. After that kingdom falls, a third kingdom of brass will rise to take it's place and will rule the world. (The Greek Empire, founded by Alexander the great). The Greek Empire would conquer the Persian Empire in 330 BC.

 ⁴⁰And the fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron: forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and subdueth all things: and as iron that breaketh all these, shall it break in pieces and bruise. Following the third kingdom of brass, a fourth kingdom strong as iron will rise, smashing, bruising, and conquering. (The rise of the Roman Empire).

 ⁴¹And whereas thou sawest the feet and toes, part of potters' clay, and part of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; but there shall be in it of the strength of the iron, forasmuch as thou sawest the iron mixed with miry clay. The feet and toes of iron and clay show that the kingdom will be divided. (Possibly the division of the roman empire). Also representing the good figs and bad figs. Iron and clay will not mix, just as the good figs and bad figs will not mix.

 ⁴²And as the toes of the feet were part of iron, and part of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong, and partly broken. Some parts of the kingdom will be strong as iron, and some weak as clay. Also representing the ten horns (ten kings), of (Revelation 17:12).

 ⁴³And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay. The mixture of iron and clay represents that these kingdoms will try to strengthen by forming alliances with each other through intermarriage of their rulers; but it will not succeed. Again, iron and clay will not mix.

 ⁴⁴And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever. During the reigns of those kings, God will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed. It will shatter the one world political system into nothingness. God's Kingdom will stand forever, indestructible. "All these different religions of today will be gone." (One religion under God).

 ⁴⁵Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure. That is the meaning of the rock cut from the mountain without hands. (The rock that crushed the image to powder). You can count on it happening this way and the dream is certain. (God and His children will get the victory).

 ⁴⁶Then the king Nebuchadnezzar fell upon his face, and worshipped Daniel, and commanded that they should offer an oblation and sweet odours unto him. Nebuchadnezzar knew now that Daniels God was the true "God of Heaven."

 ⁴⁷The king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth it is, that your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret. The king told Daniel; "Your God is the God of God's and Lord of the Kings." The revealer of all mysteries. (King of kings and Lord of Lords).

 ⁴⁸Then the king made Daniel a great man, and gave him many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief of the governors over all the wise men of Babylon. The king gave Daniel many gifts and made him the ruler over the whole province of Babylon, as well as chief over all his wise men. (God takes care of those working for Him).

 ⁴⁹Then Daniel requested of the king, and he set Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, over the affairs of the province of Babylon: but Daniel sat in the gate of the king. Gate of the king: "Where judgment takes place." Then the three children, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were made assistants to Daniel to be in charge of all affairs of the province of Babylon. (God puts His workers were He wants them to further His plan).

Daniel 3

 ¹Nebuchadnezzar the king made an image of gold, whose height was threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof six cubits: he set it up in the plain of Dura, in the province of Babylon. He made a golden statue 88' high and 8.8' wide and set it up 12 miles south east of Babylon on the plain of Dura.

 ²Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the princes, the governors, and the captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up. The king sent messages to all of his rulers of the province of Babylon to come to the dedication of his statue. (Getting ready to worship their golden image). Just as Satan wants to deceive many and have them worship him in the end times.

 ³Then the princes, the governors, and captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, were gathered together unto the dedication of the image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up; and they stood before the image that Nebuchadnezzar had set up. They all stood before the huge monument for the dedication as instructed. (Daniel and the three children we will find, will not worship the image).

 ⁴Then an herald cried aloud, To you it is commanded, O people, nations, and languages. The herald shouted out the command of the king to all who were present.

 ⁵That at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king hath set up. When the band played, they were to fall flat on the ground to worship the king's golden statue. I wonder what the antichrist band will be playing when he returns. Maybe "Sympathy for the devil," by the Rolling Stones.

 ⁶And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth shall the same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. If you do not worship the image you are going to die by being thrown into a flaming furnace.

 ⁷Therefore at that time, when all the people heard the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and all kinds of musick, all the people, the nations, and the languages, fell down and worshipped the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up. When the band began to play, everyone no matter what their language, or religion fell to the ground and worshipped the statue. (At the return of antichrist in the end times, he will want everyone to worship him).

 ⁸Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews. But some of the officials went to the king and accused some of the Jews of refusing to worship the image. (Pointing fingers at Daniel and the three children). The same way you will be delivered up by family and friends to antichrist in the end times. (Matthew 10:21-22). "They will point the finger at you." Why? Because they have been deceived all this time and do not know any better. (Beware in the end times not to trust anyone but the Heavenly Father).

 ⁹They spake and said to the king Nebuchadnezzar, O king, live for ever. Sucking up to the king, telling him what a great guy he is. (Look at all the suck-ups around today in the work place as well as in the ministry).

 ¹⁰Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, shall fall down and worship the golden image. You made the law that everyone must worship the golden image the officials said to the king. "Now they will try to set up Daniel and the three children." (Would you worship the one world image or Satan)?

 ¹¹And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, that he should be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. Anyone that refuses to worship the image will be thrown into a flaming furnace. (Again, Daniel and the three children are being set-up by the unbelievers).

 ¹²There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. The officials blew in the three children for not worshipping the golden image. They were upset about Daniel and the three children. Probably because of their appointed duties given to them by the king, and the others were jealous.

 ¹³Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Then they brought these men before the king. Then the angry king ordered Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to be brought before him.

 ¹⁴Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? The king could not believe that they would not worship his god's or the image. Worship was important to them at this time. They took it a lot more serious than we do today. (Just remember that Satan likes worship also).

 ¹⁵Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands? The king is giving them another chance to worship the image. But, if they do not worship the image, they will be thrown into the fiery furnace. (The kings pride was stepped on a little and he had to do something).

 ¹⁶Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. We are not going to do it, and we are not worried what will happen to us. (They are standing up to the king and believe that God will deliver them, showing them a way out). How will you stand if you are delivered up to antichrist in the end times? Remember, those who stand till the end will be delivered by God first. (Matthew 24:13).

 ¹⁷If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. God is able to deliver us out of your hand and from the burning fiery furnace. (Example of true faith by the children). An example of faith all Christians need in the end times.

 ¹⁸But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Even if God does not deliver us, under any circumstances, we will not worship your gods or golden image. (They knew it was wrong no matter what). Stand your ground when you know you are right when it comes to God's Word. "God will always have your back."

 ¹⁹Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated. The king was furious at the three children because they flat out refused to obey the kings order. So the king ordered that the furnace be heated seven times hotter than usual. (Keep in mind that the number seven is spiritual completeness). "God is still in control."

 ²⁰And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace. The king called on his strongest men to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and throw them into the furnace. (I believe Nebuchadnezzar called on his strongest men here because he was a little worried and did not know what to expect). "He was a little scared."

 ²¹Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. They bound them tight with ropes and threw them into the furnace fully clothed.

 ²²Therefore because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flames of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. The furnace was so hot that when the soldiers got near the furnace and threw the three children in, the flames leaped out and killed the soldiers. (Scorched the hell right out of them; they were toast).

 ²³And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. They fell down bound into the roaring flames.

 ²⁴Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king. The king was amazed when he saw something a little strange here, and asked; didn't we throw three men in the furnace?

 ²⁵He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. Look Nebuchadnezzar shouted! I see four men unbound in the fire, and they are not even hurt by the flames. And one looks like an angel, the Son of God. "That's exactly who it was." (Luke 21:12-19). In the end times they will not lay one hand on you and not a hair on your head will perish.

 ²⁶Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire. Then the king came as close to the open door of the furnace as he could and called out to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. You servants of the Most High God; Come here! Come out of the flames! (Oops, I think I really messed up this time the king was probably thinking).

 ²⁷And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. They all gathered around the three men and saw that the flames did not touch them; not a hair on their head was singed! Just as not a hair will be touched on your head when you serve the living God. (Luke 21:18).

 ²⁸Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, for He sent His angel to deliver His trusting servants when they defiled the kings command. (Only God can change the kings word, and He will).

 ²⁹Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort. Then the king made a decree that any person of any nation, language, or religion who speaks against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego shall be torn limb from limb, and his house knocked into a heap of rubble. Wow, what an about face from the king!

 ³⁰Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, in the province of Babylon. The king gave promotions to the three men so that they prospered greatly in the province of Babylon. (God always takes care of His own when they are working for Him).

Daniel 4

 ¹Nebuchadnezzar the king, unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you. The proclamation of Nebuchadnezzar to the people.

 ²I thought it good to shew the signs and wonders that the high God hath wrought toward me. Nebuchadnezzar wanted the people to know about the strange thing that the most High God did to him.

 ³How great are his signs! and how mighty are his wonders! his kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and his dominion is from generation to generation. This was an awesome miracle! "Now I know for sure that His Kingdom is everlasting and He reigns forever."

 ⁴I Nebuchadnezzar was at rest in mine house, and flourishing in my palace. Nebuchadnezzar was living in peace and prosperity.

 ⁵I saw a dream which made me afraid, and the thoughts upon my bed and the visions of my head troubled me. I had a frightening dream that I did not understand.

 ⁶Therefore made I a decree to bring in all the wise men of Babylon before me, that they might make known unto me the interpretation of the dream. The king brought in all his wise men to interpret his dream.

 ⁷Then came in the magicians, the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers: and I told the dream before them; but they did not make known unto me the interpretation thereof. Here came all the king's wise men, but none could interpret the dream.

 ⁸But at the last Daniel came in before me, whose name was Belteshazzar, according to the name of my god, and in whom is the spirit of the holy gods: and before him I told the dream, saying. Nebuchadnezzar was still a Bail worshipper at the time. His god was not the God of Daniel. (Lower case god and gods). Some bible translations have this as an upper case God. "It is not."

 ⁹O Belteshazzar, master of the magicians, because I know that the spirit of the holy gods is in thee, and no secret troubleth thee, tell me the visions of my dream that I have seen, and the interpretation thereof. Nebuchadnezzar knew that Daniel could interpret the dream because of his God.

 ¹⁰Thus were the visions of mine head in my bed; I saw, and behold a tree in the midst of the earth, and the height thereof was great. He saw a very tall tree out in a field growing higher and higher.

 ¹¹The tree grew, and was strong, and the height thereof reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to the end of all the earth. It grew high in the sky until it could be seen by everyone in the world.

 ¹²The leaves thereof were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was meat for all: the beasts of the field had shadow under it, and the fowls of the heaven dwelt in the boughs thereof, and all flesh was fed of it. This tree was spoken of in Ezekiel 31:3-11, as a type, not the real thing. The tree Nebuchadnezzar was dreaming about was the "tree of good and evil," representing Satan.

 ¹³I saw in the visions of my head upon my bed, and, behold, a watcher and an holy one came down from heaven. An angel of God coming down from heaven.

 ¹⁴He cried aloud, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cut off his branches, shake off his leaves, and scatter his fruit: let the beasts get away from under it, and the fowls from his branches. Cut down the tree and lop off it's branches. Shake off the leaves and scatter the fruit. (There is a time coming when Satan will be cut off just as it is written).

 ¹⁵Nevertheless leave the stump of his roots in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth. In the end times, Satan will be bound (just as the stump), and cast into the abyss. (Revelation 20:1-3). Even Satan's spirit will be held (banded), at this time.

 ¹⁶Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him. For seven years let him have a mind of an animal instead of a man.

 ¹⁷This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men. Decreed by the watchers, demanded by the holy ones. (The watchers are the angels). The purpose of the decree is that all the world may understand that God dominates the kingdoms of the world, and gives them to anyone He wants. (Even the lowest of men if it will further His plan). "These are signs from God."

 ¹⁸This dream I king Nebuchadnezzar have seen. Now thou, O Belteshazzar, declare the interpretation thereof, forasmuch as all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known unto me the interpretation: but thou art able; for the spirit of the holy gods is in thee. None of the kings wise men could interpret the dream, but the king had no doubt that Daniel could interpret the dream. He knew the spirit of God was with Daniel. (The Holy Spirit).

 ¹⁹Then Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, was astonied for one hour, and his thoughts troubled him. The king spake, and said, Belteshazzar, let not the dream, or the interpretation thereof, trouble thee. Belteshazzar answered and said, My lord, the dream be to them that hate thee, and the interpretation thereof to thine enemies. Daniel was a little stunned and silent for an hour because of the meaning of the dream. (It's not always a good thing to interpret a dream against the king). "You might lose your head."

 ²⁰The tree that thou sawest, which grew, and was strong, whose height reached unto the heaven, and the sight thereof to all the earth. A tree growing strong and tall reaching to the heavens.

 ²¹Whose leaves were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was meat for all; under which the beasts of the field dwelt, and upon whose branches the fowls of the heaven had their habitation. Fresh green leaves and loaded with fruit to eat. Like the tree of "Good and Evil" in the garden of Eden. However, this tree is a "Te Ashshur," a box tree or cypress. Not like a cedar of Lebanon. (Ezekiel 31). This tree is trying to be something it is not. (A fake or imposter, just like Satan in the end times).

 ²²It is thou, O king, that art grown and become strong: for thy greatness is grown, and reacheth unto heaven, and thy dominion to the end of the earth. That tree is you, your Majesty. You have grown strong and great, your greatness reaching to the heavens and your rule to the ends of the earth. (The king is trying to be something he is not). A "Te Ashshur," not a cedar of Lebanon. Just as antichrist at his return. There will be only one "King of Kings" and "Lord of Lords" to rule the earth, and that is Jesus Christ.

 ²³And whereas the king saw a watcher and an holy one coming down from heaven, and saying, Hew the tree down, and destroy it; yet leave the stump of the roots thereof in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts of the field, till seven times pass over him. God's angels coming down from heaven saying. "Cut down the tree and destroy it." But, leave the stump and the roots banded with a chain of iron. For seven years let him eat grass with the animals of the field.

 ²⁴This is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree of the most High, which is come upon my lord the king. This is the interpretation and it will surely happen. (A statement of degradation).

 ²⁵That they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and they shall wet thee with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over thee, till thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will. For seven years this will be your life, until you learn that God dominates the kingdom of men, and gives power to anyone He chooses. (God is on the throne and is in control). He can bring up, or tear down anyone or anything He chooses.

 ²⁶And whereas they commanded to leave the stump of the tree roots; thy kingdom shall be sure unto thee, after that thou shalt have known that the heavens do rule. But, the stumps and the roots were left in the ground. You will get your kingdom back when you have learned that the heavens do rule. (The king must realize that God is in control).

 ²⁷Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by shewing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity. Listen to me, Daniel said to king Nebuchadnezzar. Stop sinning and do what you know is right. Show mercy on the captives and perhaps God will spare you. Will Nebuchadnezzar listen to Daniel? "No way."

 ²⁸All this came upon the king Nebuchadnezzar. All these things happened to Nebuchadnezzar because he would not listen to the warnings.

 ²⁹At the end of twelve months he walked in the palace of the kingdom of Babylon. Twelve months after the dream, the king was strolling in the royal palace.

 ³⁰The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty? I built this kingdom by my own mighty power. (Here comes the kings pride). "I did it all said the king." The king is on a big ego trip like so many are today. Man can't do anything on his own, he only thinks he can. God is in control of the heavens and the earth.

 ³¹While the word was in the king's mouth, there fell a voice from heaven, saying, O king Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken; The kingdom is departed from thee. While the king was on his ego trip still talking about how great he was, a voice called down from heaven. O King Nebuchadnezzar, this message is for you. "You no longer rule this kingdom." All gone, just like that! How many people do you know that are so puffed up about themselves?

 ³²And they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field: they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and seven times shall pass over thee, until thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will. You will be forced out of your palace to live with the animals in the field for seven years. Then you will finally realize that God gives the kingdoms of men to anyone he chooses, just as he gave it to you. (Jeremiah 27:6).

 ³³The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar: and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles' feathers, and his nails like birds' claws. Driven out of his palace and ate grass like the cows. His body was wet and dirty, his hair was long and shaggy and his nails were like eagles claws.

 ³⁴And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation. At the end of the seven years king Nebuchadnezzar finally woke up and his sanity returned. He praised and worshipped the Most High God and honored Him who lives forever. Nebuchadnezzar was still a type (referring to Satan), but now he realized it. This is Nebuchadnezzar's prayer. (Said to be one of the most beautiful prayers in the bible). Nebuchadnezzar converted, but Satan will not.

 ³⁵And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou? All the people on earth are nothing compared to Him. He does what He thinks is best to further His army in Heaven as well as those on earth. "No one can stop or challenge Him."

 ³⁶At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, mine honour and brightness returned unto me; and my counsellors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me. When my mind returned to me, so did my honor, glory, and kingdom. All was returned to him and even greater honor than before. (When you are pleasing to God, He blesses you). God gave everything to Nebuchadnezzar.

 ³⁷Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honour the King of heaven, all whose works are truth, and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase. Nebuchadnezzar praising, glorifying, and honoring the King of Heaven and the judge of all. God is able to take those who walk to proudly and push them into the dust. It all started with Nebuchadnezzar's pride in verse 30. That was Satan's downfall in the first earth age. (Ezekiel 28:12-19). Satan as another type. "The king of Tyrus." (Tyrus means rock, but not our rock, he is a fake). "Christ is our rock." So remember, pride will always catch up to you sooner or later. It is alright to be proud of someone, but self-pride will destroy you.

Daniel 5

 ¹Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine before the thousand. Nebuchadnezzar is gone now and Belshazzar takes over. Some scholars believe that Belshazzar was the son, or grandson of Nebuchadnezzar, while others believe he was not related at all. Belshazzar was said to be the son of Nabonidus. (The Aramaic word for "father" can also mean predecessor). So, lets call Belshazzar the son of Nebuchadnezzar. Reference: (Jeremiah 27:6-7). "The last king of Babylon from that family."

 ²Belshazzar, whiles he tasted the wine, commanded to bring the golden and silver vessels which his father Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of the temple which was in Jerusalem; that the king, and his princes, his wives, and his concubines, might drink therein. He commanded to bring the gold and silver cups taken long before from the temple in Jerusalem during Nebuchadnezzar's reign. "Party time!" (Their going to have a little wine tasting here).

 ³Then they brought the golden vessels that were taken out of the temple of the house of God which was at Jerusalem; and the king, and his princes, his wives, and his concubines, drank in them. He ordered that these sacred cups be brought to the feast and they drank from them.

 ⁴They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold, and of silver, of brass, of iron, of wood, and of stone. Worshipping all the images of false gods. (Six idols representing Satan; just like the top heavy idol). Look how many people today worship and pray to images and statues.

 ⁵In the same hour came forth fingers of a man's hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaister of the wall of the king's palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote. A hand appeared and began to write on the wall as the king looked on. The words written on the wall were Aramaic: ופרסין מנא ,מנא, תקל (Mene, Mene, Tekel u-Pharsin).

 ⁶Then the king's countenance was changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees smote one against another. After seeing the hand writing on the wall, the king started to get a little frightened. The wine tasting party is over.

 ⁷The king cried aloud to bring in the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers. And the king spake, and said to the wise men of Babylon, Whosoever shall read this writing, and shew me the interpretation thereof, shall be clothed with scarlet, and have a chain of gold about his neck, and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom. The king called on anyone who could interpret the writing on the wall and would make them the third ruler in the kingdom if they did. (God was getting the attention of Belshazzar). Don't mock God, or He will come down on you.

 ⁸Then came in all the king's wise men: but they could not read the writing, nor make known to the king the interpretation thereof. None of them could understand what the writing meant. The writing was in familiar Aramaic and they could read the words, but they could not determine their prophetic significance. (Just like today; they can't interpret the Word). Very few priests, pastors, or teachers, interpret the word correctly because they let traditions of men and church doctrine get in the way of the truth. If they don't follow church doctrine, "no job." Do not be deceived!

 ⁹Then was king Belshazzar greatly troubled, and his countenance was changed in him, and his lords were astonied. This king and his officers were shaking in their sandals now.

 ¹⁰Now the queen by reason of the words of the king and his lords came into the banquet house: and the queen spake and said, O king, live for ever: let not thy thoughts trouble thee, nor let thy countenance be changed. Here comes the queen to try and calm the king down. "The Queen mother coming to the rescue."

 ¹¹There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of thy father light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, was found in him; whom the king Nebuchadnezzar thy father, the king, I say, thy father, made master of the magicians, astrologers, Chaldeans, and soothsayers. There is a man in your kingdom that has the spirit of God within him the queen tells the king. Your father made him master of all the wise men. She was speaking of Daniel. (Remember, all wisdom comes from God).

 ¹²Forasmuch as an excellent spirit, and knowledge, and understanding, interpreting of dreams, and shewing of hard sentences, and dissolving of doubts, were found in the same Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar: now let Daniel be called, and he will shew the interpretation. Call on Daniel (Balteshazzar), as the king called him, for his mind is filled with divine knowledge and understanding. (Divine knowledge from God). "He will tell you what the writing on the wall means."

 ¹³Then was Daniel brought in before the king. And the king spake and said unto Daniel, Art thou that Daniel, which art of the children of the captivity of Judah, whom the king my father brought out of Jewry? Jewry is a bad translation. It should read: "Are you not one of the children of captivity that my father the king brought out of Judea?"

 ¹⁴I have even heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods is in thee, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee. Reading with understanding. That is what Daniel was known for. "The same can be done with you with the help of the Holy Spirit."

 ¹⁵And now the wise men, the astrologers, have been brought in before me, that they should read this writing, and make known unto me the interpretation thereof: but they could not shew the interpretation of the thing. None of the kings wise men could understand or show the interpretation.

 ¹⁶And I have heard of thee, that thou canst make interpretations, and dissolve doubts: now if thou canst read the writing, and make known to me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with scarlet, and have a chain of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third ruler in the kingdom. Daniel was about to be promoted and rewarded with many gifts, if he can tell the king the meaning of the words.

 ¹⁷Then Daniel answered and said before the king, Let thy gifts be to thyself, and give thy rewards to another; yet I will read the writing unto the king, and make known to him the interpretation. Daniel told the king to keep his gifts, but said he would tell him the meaning of the words.

 ¹⁸O thou king, the most high God gave Nebuchadnezzar thy father a kingdom, and majesty, and glory, and honour. God gave your father all these things.

 ¹⁹And for the majesty that he gave him, all people, nations, and languages, trembled and feared before him: whom he would he slew; and whom he would he kept alive; and whom he would he set up; and whom he would he put down. Nebuchadnezzar did all these things because God allowed it.

 ²⁰But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him. But when his heart and mind were hardened with pride, they took his glory from him. Who are they that took his glory from him? The Kenites (the bad figs), took it from him. "God allowed it." God can take anything away that He has given if He wishes.

 ²¹And he was driven from the sons of men; and his heart was made like the beasts, and his dwelling was with the wild asses: they fed him with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven; till he knew that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will. He was chased out of his palace into the fields until he knew that the "Most High God" overrules the kingdoms of men and appoints anyone He desires. (God is in control).

 ²²And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knewest all this. You knew this, but your not humble before the living God.

 ²³But hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven; and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee, and thou, and thy lords, thy wives, and thy concubines, have drunk wine in them; and thou hast praised the gods of silver, and gold, of brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know: and the God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy ways, hast thou not glorified. You praised the idols, or marks of Satan. You mocked God, ignored Him, and shamed Him.

 ²⁴Then was the part of the hand sent from him; and this writing was written. God sent those fingers to write the message.

 ²⁵And this is the writing that was written, MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN. It was written on the wall.

 ²⁶This is the interpretation of the thing: MENE; God hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it. God tells us when it would happen. (Jeremiah 27:7).

 ²⁷TEKEL; Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting. You have failed the test. You do not measure up to a king of anything.

 ²⁸PERES; Thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians. Your kingdom is divided. How about the U.S. today? (We are a country divided). Why? Because we are not following the ways of God!

 ²⁹Then commanded Belshazzar, and they clothed Daniel with scarlet, and put a chain of gold about his neck, and made a proclamation concerning him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom. The king believed Daniel and knew that he was on the outs with God. His kingdom is finished. What about his salvation?

 ³⁰In that night was Belshazzar the king of the Chaldeans slain. Killed that same night.

 ³¹And Darius the Median took the kingdom, being about threescore and two years old. Darius the Mede began to reign at the age of sixty-two. "Meads being the middle land." (This Darius is not to be confused with Darius the Persian, mentioned in Ezra, Haggai, Zechariah, nor the one in Nehemiah 12:22).

Daniel 6

 ¹It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes, which should be over the whole kingdom. Darius put together his government. (120 provinces, each under a governor).

 ²And over these three presidents; of whom Daniel was first: that the princes might give accounts unto them, and the king should have no damage. Daniel was the first of three presidents that the governors would be accountable to. The king trusted Daniel, and knew his government would run efficiently under his control; or should we say Gods control.

 ³Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm. Daniel soon proved himself more capable than the others because of the "Holy Spirit" within him. The king began to think of placing him in charge of his entire empire. (However, there is going to be trouble down the road, because Daniel was a captive).

 ⁴Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him. The other presidents and governors were jealous of Daniel and wanted to find some fault in the way Daniel would handle his affairs. But, they could not find anything wrong because Daniel was faithful, honest, and made no mistakes.

 ⁵Then said these men, We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of his God. The only way they could try and trip Daniel up is through his beliefs. (They are going to attack his religion). It will happen the same way to Christians in the end times. "It is going on today." (Those deceived by Satan are taking God out of everything).

 ⁶Then these presidents and princes assembled together to the king, and said thus unto him, King Darius, live for ever. Buttering up to the king! (Better known as brown noses). Be aware when people try to pal-up to you. "Most have negative intensions."

 ⁷All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. They wanted to make a law that no one would ask anything, or worship God for thirty days; but rather ask the king, or they would be put to death. (Taking advantage of the king's ego). "We all want to worship you O-king." They also knew that Daniel would not worship anyone but God.

 ⁸Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. They wanted the king to sign the law so it could not be changed. Using flattery towards the king, just like Satan does. (That is Satan's method of operation; to build you up and put you on an ego trip). So many are deceived today by Satan and his methods.

 ⁹Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the decree. Signed sealed and delivered; "It is the law now."

 ¹⁰Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime. Daniel knew what was going on, but he still went home and prayed giving thanks to God. Why towards Jerusalem? "They always prayed to the east towards the Temple of Jerusalem."

 ¹¹Then these men assembled, and found Daniel praying and making supplication before his God. They spied on Daniel and found him praying to God.

 ¹²Then they came near, and spake before the king concerning the king's decree; Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall ask a petition of any God or man within thirty days, save of thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions? The king answered and said, The thing is true, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. The little snitches ran to the king to remind him about the law that he just signed into effect, and the king replied; "Yes," it is the law of the Meads and Persians that cannot be altered or revoked.

 ¹³Then answered they and said before the king, That Daniel, which is of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day. Then they told the king that Daniel (one of the captives), prays to His God three times a day. (Setting up the king).

 ¹⁴Then the king, when he heard these words, was sore displeased with himself, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he laboured till the going down of the sun to deliver him. When the king heard this, he was angry with himself for signing the law and wanted to see if he could get Daniel out of this predicament.

 ¹⁵Then these men assembled unto the king, and said unto the king, Know, O king, that the law of the Medes and Persians is, That no decree nor statute which the king establisheth may be changed. They reminded the king that there was nothing he could do. (The king signed the law and it cannot be changed).

 ¹⁶Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee. The king gave the order for Daniels arrest and cast him into the lions den, but he knew that God would save Daniel. (Luke 21:18-19). Even the king (a heathen king at that), had the faith that Daniel's God would save him. (God always takes care of His own, and uses whom ever He wills).

 ¹⁷And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords; that the purpose might not be changed concerning Daniel. The king sealed the entrance of the den with his own signet. (So no one could interfere with Daniel).

 ¹⁸Then the king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting: neither were instruments of musick brought before him: and his sleep went from him. The king was worried about Daniel and was actually praying for him. He wanted God to deliver Daniel from the lions den.

 ¹⁹Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions. He couldn't wait to go to the den and see if Daniel was still alive.

 ²⁰And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions? Daniel, the king cried out... Was your God able to deliver you?

 ²¹Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever. Live forever Daniel replied.

 ²²My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt. God has sent an angel to shut the lions mouths so that they could not touch me; because I am innocent before God, and I have not wronged you. (Revelation 9:4). With the seal of God (through the Holy Spirit), Satan, or nothing else can touch you. "God is in control."

 ²³Then was the king exceedingly glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God. Not even a scratch, because the "seal of God" was there. That exceeding trust and faith in God that Daniel had. How is your trust and faith in God?

 ²⁴And the king commanded, and they brought those men which had accused Daniel, and they cast them into the den of lions, them, their children, and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and brake all their bones in pieces or ever they came at the bottom of the den. Cast all the accusers along with their children and wives into the pit. The lions tore them apart even before they hit the bottom of the den. An example of the abyss and pit of the end times, the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:14). The second death!

 ²⁵Then king Darius wrote unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you. This was another writing by the king addressed to everyone in his realm.

 ²⁶I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: for he is the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be even unto the end. The king made a decree that all men revere the God of Daniel whose Kingdom shall never be destroyed. (Even unto the end of this age).

 ²⁷He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions. What a intervention from God. A heathen king confirming that God had sent an angel to protect Daniel. (God uses whom ever He wills to further His plan).

 ²⁸So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian. Daniel exceedingly prospered in the reign of Darius and Cyrus the Persian. (Cyrus would be the one to deliver the children of Israel and rebuild the tribe of Judah in Jerusalem).

Daniel 7

 ¹In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, and told the sum of the matters. Daniel dreaming here about the fall of the king of Babylon's dynasty. (Also referring to the end times).

 ²Daniel spake and said, I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove upon the great sea. The great sea or waters represents peoples, multitudes, nations and tongues as spoken in (Revelations 17:15). The four winds come upon the sea. (Again meaning the sea of people). The four winds of the end times are spoken of in the book of Revelation. (Revelation 7:1).

 ³And four great beasts came up from the sea, diverse one from another. The four great beasts that emerge from the sea of people are kings and their kingdoms. They are also the four hidden dynasties of the end time. (The political system, financial system, educational system, and the religious system). "The one world government!" The lies and deception of Satan are polluting these dynasties as we speak.

 ⁴The first was like a lion, and had eagle's wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man's heart was given to it. Like a lion representing Babylon. Compare to Daniel 2:38, (Nebuchadnezzar). These are the same animals spoken of in (Revelation 13:1-4). They represent nations of the end time and have to do with the deadly would.

 ⁵And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh. Example and type: The bear representing Medo-Persia. Compare to (Daniel 2:39). (Cyrus). The Meeds and Persians as a coalition made up Medo-Persia. The three ribs in the mouth of the bear at this time represent the three provinces of Babylon. (Babylonia, Lidia, and Egypt). They were destroyed in 538 B.C. by Medo-Persia, and ruled till 331 B.C. This would be the deadly wound and the three were devoured and destroyed. (Revelation 13:3).

 ⁶After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it. Example and type: The leopard representing Greece. Compare to (Daniel 2:39). (Alexander The Great). At this time after the death of Alexander The Great, the kingdom was divided among his four generals. (Cassander, Lysimachus, Ptolemy, and Seleucus). They ruled over the kingdoms of Macedonia, Thrace, Egypt, and Syria. (This would also represent the four hidden dynasties in the end times).

 ⁷After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns. Example and type: The fourth beast (a type), representing Rome at this time. Compare to (Daniel 2:40). (Caesar). Ten horns represent 10 kings and their kingdoms that would arise at this time. (Alamanni "German" - Visigoths "Spain" - Franks "France" - Suevi "Portugal" - Burgundians "Swiss" - Anglo Saxon "English" - Lombards "Italy" - Heruli, destroyed in 493 A.D. - Vandals, destroyed in 534 A.D. - Ostrogoths, destroyed in 538 A.D.). Compare to (Daniel 2:41-43). The ten horns also represent ten supernatural kings that come with Satan at his return in the end times. "The son of perdition." (Revelation 17:10-12).

 ⁸I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things. Believed by many to be the rise of the Roman empire that could be utilized by the beast. (Another type like the king of Babylon). However, here we are speaking of the little horn being the false Christ, or antichrist of the end times. (Revelation 13:11-14). Who will the antichrist utilizes during this period? We will just need to wait and see. (It will all come together).

 ⁹I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. Almighty God! Wheels representing vehicles like those described in the book of Ezekiel. (Ezekiel 1:15-20, 26-28, & 10:9-13).

 ¹⁰A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened. A river of fire flowed before Him (the Holy Spirit), and millions of angels ministered to Him. Hundreds of millions of people stood before Him waiting to be judged. (The court began and the books were open). This is the great white throne judgment. (Revelation 20:11).

 ¹¹I beheld then because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake: I beheld even till the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame. The fourth animal destroyed and burned because of its arrogance against Almighty God. The antichrist. (Revelation 19:20). The false profit little horn. (The one world system and antichrist).

 ¹²As concerning the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away: yet their lives were prolonged for a season and time. As for the other animals, their kingdoms (one world system), were taken from them, but were allowed to live for a short time longer. (During the millennium period).

 ¹³I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. Son of Man (Jesus Christ), coming with the clouds of Heaven.

 ¹⁴And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. Given ruling power over all nations of the world. "King of Kings and Lord of Lords." (Established on mount Zion).

 ¹⁵I Daniel was grieved in my spirit in the midst of my body, and the visions of my head troubled me. Daniel was confused and disturbed by what he had seen.

 ¹⁶I came near unto one of them that stood by, and asked him the truth of all this. So he told me, and made me know the interpretation of the things. Daniel asked, and the angel of the Lord would explain the vision to Daniel.

 ¹⁷These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth. These are four "earthly" kings of the later days that rise to rule the earth. (Note: These are not supernatural kings, but earthly leaders).

 ¹⁸But the saints of the most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever. But, in the end the people of the Most High God will rule the governments of the world.

 ¹⁹Then I would know the truth of the fourth beast, which was diverse from all the others, exceeding dreadful, whose teeth were of iron, and his nails of brass; which devoured, brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet. Then Daniel asked about the fourth animal that was so brutal and shocking. (The antichrist). He loves lies and deception, just look around today.

 ²⁰And of the ten horns that were in his head, and of the other which came up, and before whom three fell; even of that horn that had eyes, and a mouth that spake very great things, whose look was more stout than his fellows. Speaking of the ten "supernatural kings" and the "little horn" (false Christ). (Revelation 13:11). Satan disguised looking as Christ.

 ²¹I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them. The same horn (antichrist), making war against God's people and it appears he is winning. (Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21). When God's people will be delivered up before antichrist. (All will listen to what they have to say).

 ²²Until the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom. Those against God and His people are going to lose. God's people will be given worldwide powers of government and will posses the kingdom.

 ²³Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces. A kingdom strong as iron (Daniel 2:40). Believed by many to be a revived Roman empire. (Again, another type). No place in history has this ever happened. (This is future prophecy, and it is right at the door and ready to happen).

 ²⁴And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise: and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings. The ten horns or ten kings of the antichrist at the end times. "Another will rise after them."

 ²⁵And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time. He will defy the Most High God, and wear down the saints with persecution. He will try to change all the laws, morals and customs which is part of his plan. (We have denominations and churches that try to change Gods laws today). Some would even go as far as to change the "Ten Commandments" written by God in stone." (They know who they are). Example: Compare the ten commandments in Deuteronomy 5, to the commandments in a St. Joseph Edition catechism. (They removed the second, changed the fourth, and took the tenth commandment and split it into nine and ten). Remember, Satan's method of operation is through changing God's law, the Word, flattery and deception. For 3-1/2 times (years), everything is turned upside down. However, this time period will be shortened to five months. (Matthew 24:22, Revelation 9:5, 9:10). Now, am I coming down on Catholicism? Not at all... Their are many good Christian Catholics out there. I was raised a Catholic till I knew there was more to God's Word than I was being taught. I am just giving you an example of how easy it is to be deceived by denominationalism. You need to discern the truth in the Word.

 ²⁶But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end. Christ destroys his dominion at His return.

 ²⁷And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him. Every nation under heaven shall be given to God's elect, and all rulers shall serve and obey them. (All negativity will be gone from this point on).

 ²⁸Hitherto is the end of the matter. As for me Daniel, my cogitations much troubled me, and my countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart. That was the end of Daniels dream that followed Nebuchadnezzar's dream. Daniel was disturbed and frightened by the dream, but he told no one what he had seen, and sealed it in his mind for the later generation. The generation of the end times; we are there now. As it is written, the generation of the fig tree (When Israel became a nation in 1948). This generation shall not pass till the end comes. (Matthew 24:32-35, Jeremiah 24).

Daniel 8

¹In the third year of the reign of king Belshazzar a vision appeared unto me, even unto me Daniel, after that which appeared unto me at the first. Daniel had another dream that was similar to the first.

 ²And I saw in a vision; and it came to pass, when I saw, that I was at Shushan in the palace, which is in the province of Elam; and I saw in a vision, and I was by the river of Ulai. Elam means "eternity." Ulai is near the Tigress and Euphrates river at the head of the Persian gulf. (Today it would be Iran).

 ³Then I lifted up mine eyes, and saw, and, behold, there stood before the river a ram which had two horns: and the two horns were high; but one was higher than the other, and the higher came up last. Example and type: The rise of Medo-Persia empire. The two horns of the ram represent two kings. (Persia being the higher of the two horns).

 ⁴I saw the ram pushing westward, and northward, and southward; so that no beasts might stand before him, neither was there any that could deliver out of his hand; but he did according to his will, and became great. No one could stand in the way of the ram and it did as it wanted. (They conquered Babylon). Daniel sees the fall of Babylon, plus events of the end time.

 ⁵And as I was considering, behold, an he goat came from the west on the face of the whole earth, and touched not the ground: and the goat had a notable horn between his eyes. The buck goat moved so swiftly that it didn't even touch the ground. Example and type: The large horn between it's eyes was "Alexander the Great" from Greece.

 ⁶And he came to the ram that had two horns, which I had seen standing before the river, and ran unto him in the fury of his power. The goat rushed furiously at the two horned ram.

 ⁷And I saw him come close unto the ram, and he was moved with choler against him, and smote the ram, and brake his two horns: and there was no power in the ram to stand before him, but he cast him down to the ground, and stamped upon him: and there was none that could deliver the ram out of his hand. Charging the ram, the angry goat broke off both his horns knocking him down and trampled him. (Alexander took down Medo-Persia).

 ⁸Therefore the he goat waxed very great: and when he was strong, the great horn was broken; and for it came up four notable ones toward the four winds of heaven. He became very proud and powerful, but at the height of his power, his horn was broken. But, in it's place grew four good sized horns. Example and type: The four principal successors of Alexander the Great were: (Ptolemy I of Egypt, Seleucus of Babylonia, Antigonus of Syria and Asia Minor, and Antipater of Macedonia and Greece). Compare to the four animal horns (world powers), that scattered Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem. (Zechariah 1:18-21). When the four winds are mentioned, it is always prophecy about the end times. 

 ⁹And out of one of them came forth a little horn, which waxed exceeding great, toward the south, and toward the east, and toward the pleasant land. The little horn became very strong and attacked the south and east, and made war against the land of Israel. (Future return of antichrist).

 ¹⁰And it waxed great, even to the host of heaven; and it cast down some of the host and of the stars to the ground, and stamped upon them. He fought against the people of God and defeated some of their leaders. (The coming of the false messiah). This is part of the great apostasy. (The falling away, or switching religion in an instant). The time will come when people will not like sound doctrine and turn away from the truth. (2 Timothy 4:2-4).

 ¹¹Yea, he magnified himself even to the prince of the host, and by him the daily sacrifice was taken away, and the place of the sanctuary was cast down. Challenging the commander of the army of heaven. (Compare to Joshua 5:13-15). Christ is our daily sacrifice and Satan wants to take it away.

 ¹²And an host was given him against the daily sacrifice by reason of transgression, and it cast down the truth to the ground; and it practised, and prospered. Cast down the Word of God and evil triumphed and prospered, as he is to stand in the Holy Place. Who stands in the Holy Place? "Satan himself!" Paul speaks of this in the new testament. (2 Thessalonians 2:4).

 ¹³Then I heard one saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain saint which spake, How long shall be the vision concerning the daily sacrifice, and the transgression of desolation, to give both the sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot? How long will it be before the daily sacrifice is restored again? How long till the destruction of the temple is avenged and God's people triumph?

 ¹⁴And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed. Twenty three hundred days till the sanctuary would be changed.  

 ¹⁵And it came to pass, when I, even I Daniel, had seen the vision, and sought for the meaning, then, behold, there stood before me as the appearance of a man. As Daniel was trying to understand the dream, a man appeared before him. He appeared to Daniel as a man. But was it?

 ¹⁶And I heard a man's voice between the banks of Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this man to understand the vision. The voice of the man called from across the river. "Gabriel," tell Daniel the meaning of the dream. (Gabriel means "God's Man").

 ¹⁷So he came near where I stood: and when he came, I was afraid, and fell upon my face: but he said unto me, Understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end shall be the vision. Gabriel approached Daniel and he was frightened, but Gabriel told him that the dream was not for now, but for the end time.

 ¹⁸Now as he was speaking with me, I was in a deep sleep on my face toward the ground: but he touched me, and set me upright. Daniel fainted, lying face down on the ground. Gabriel touched him and helped him to his feet.

 ¹⁹And he said, Behold, I will make thee know what shall be in the last end of the indignation: for at the time appointed the end shall be. Gabriel told him that he was here to tell him what is going to happen in the later days of terror, and the final events in history. (God ordained an hour when the Heavenly Sanctuary would be cleansed).

 ²⁰The ram which thou sawest having two horns are the kings of Media and Persia. The two horns being the two kings of Media and Persia.

 ²¹And the rough goat is the king of Grecia: and the great horn that is between his eyes is the first king. The shaggy haired goat represents the nation of Greece, and the great horn is the first king, "Alexander The Great."

 ²²Now that being broken, whereas four stood up for it, four kingdoms shall stand up out of the nation, but not in his power. When the first horn is broken off, the Grecian Empire will break into four sections with four kings. (None of these kings are as great as the first).

 ²³And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors are come to the full, a king of fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, shall stand up. Toward the end of their kingdoms, when all has become morally rotten, a fierce king shall rise. A reference to Antiochus Epiphanes (a type referring to antichrist). However, we are talking future here in the later times. This refers to the antichrist, the false messiah.

 ²⁴And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practise, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people. He comes in peaceably and prosperously and he will try to destroy anyone who opposes him. Don't worry... God's elect will not be destroyed.

 ²⁵And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand. He is a master of deception and catches many people off guard as they bask in false security. (He destroys by peace and deception). God's elect will not be deceived. "He is so puffed up that he will try to take on the Prince of Princes in battle; but he will be broken by the hand of God." 

 ²⁶And the vision of the evening and the morning which was told is true: wherefore shut thou up the vision; for it shall be for many days. This vision is for the end times. The vision of the morning and evening sacrifice. The false messiah is coming, and he wants you to worship and sacrifice to him.

 ²⁷And I Daniel fainted, and was sick certain days; afterward I rose up, and did the king's business; and I was astonished at the vision, but none understood it. Daniel fainted again and became sick. Daniel understood the dream, but it made him sick to see how good Satan can be at deceiving people. He is a master of deception... Will you be deceived?

Daniel 9

 ¹In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the seed of the Medes, which was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans. Darius was a Mede but became king of the Chaldeans. (Iran and Iraq of today).

 ²In the first year of his reign I Daniel understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem. Daniel learned from the book of Jeremiah that Jerusalem must lie desolate for seventy years. (Jeremiah 25:11-14, 29:10).

 ³And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes. Daniel prayed and pleaded with the Lord God to end the captivity and send his people back to their own land.

 ⁴And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments. Daniel prayed to the great and fearful God that keeps His promises of mercy to all those who love Him and keep His commandments. (Remember the condition here, to keep His commandments).

 ⁵We have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments. Daniel admits to God that his people have sinned and rebelled against Him. 

 ⁶Neither have we hearkened unto thy servants the prophets, which spake in thy name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land. We refused to listen to the prophets that you have sent again and again down through the years. Just as so many today will not listen to the Word of truth passed down by the prophets. (This is God's personal letter to you).

 ⁷O LORD, righteousness belongeth unto thee, but unto us confusion of faces, as at this day; to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and unto all Israel, that are near, and that are far off, through all the countries whither thou hast driven them, because of their trespass that they have trespassed against thee. You are a righteous God, but we are always shamed faced with sin. We have been disloyal to you. "All of Israel!" (Even the lost tribes of Israel that traveled to the Americas).

 ⁸O Lord, to us belongeth confusion of face, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against thee. Our kings, princes, and fathers are weighted down with shame because of our sin.

 ⁹To the Lord our God belong mercies and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against him. God is merciful against even those who have rebelled against Him.

 ¹⁰Neither have we obeyed the voice of the LORD our God, to walk in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets. We have disobeyed all the laws you gave us through the prophets. (Today people just don't care about the laws of God). They would rather listen to man and the ways of the world.

 ¹¹Yea, all Israel have transgressed thy law, even by departing, that they might not obey thy voice; therefore the curse is poured upon us, and the oath that is written in the law of Moses the servant of God, because we have sinned against him. All Israel has disobeyed the laws and a curse has been poured on us that is written in the law of Moses.

 ¹²And he hath confirmed his words, which he spake against us, and against our judges that judged us, by bringing upon us a great evil: for under the whole heaven hath not been done as hath been done upon Jerusalem. You have done exactly as you warned us that you would do. (God always keeps His promises, bad or good).

 ¹³As it is written in the law of Moses, all this evil is come upon us: yet made we not our prayer before the LORD our God, that we might turn from our iniquities, and understand thy truth. Every curse against us written in the law of Moses has come true and we still refused to listen. You can read of the curses in (Deuteronomy 28:15-20). Some people just never learn. Don't open your life up to the curses of this world. "GET INTO THE WORD."

 ¹⁴Therefore hath the LORD watched upon the evil, and brought it upon us: for the LORD our God is righteous in all his works which he doeth: for we obeyed not his voice. The Lord crushed us with calamity; He prepared for us because he is always fair, but we still did not listen and did not obey Him. (We all have free will, so whatever floats your boat).

 ¹⁵And now, O Lord our God, that hast brought thy people forth out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and hast gotten thee renown, as at this day; we have sinned, we have done wickedly. You brought us out of Egypt even though we have sinned and are full of wickedness. (God just loves His children like any parent would).

 ¹⁶O LORD, according to all thy righteousness, I beseech thee, let thine anger and thy fury be turned away from thy city Jerusalem, thy holy mountain: because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and thy people are become a reproach to all that are about us. Have mercy on us again and turn your furious anger from Jerusalem, your own city and holy mountain. (Mount Zion is God's favorite place on earth).

 ¹⁷Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord's sake. Hear me Lord and listen as I plead with you for peace and joy, for your own glory. (The sanctuary won't be desolate for long).

 ¹⁸O my God, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which is called by thy name: for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousnesses, but for thy great mercies. Listen to my plea, and open your eyes and see our wickedness and how your city lies in ruins. (Daniel praying for all God's children).

 ¹⁹O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for thine own sake, O my God: for thy city and thy people are called by thy name. Hear me and forgive me Lord. Don't delay; take action, for your own sake, because your people bear your name. Again, "GET INTO THE WORD."

 ²⁰And whiles I was speaking, and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the LORD my God for the holy mountain of my God. While I was praying and pleading with the Lord for Jerusalem, His holy mountain.

 ²¹Yea, whiles I was speaking in prayer, even the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, being caused to fly swiftly, touched me about the time of the evening oblation. The angel Gabriel (man of God), touched me at the time of the evening sacrifice or offering.

 ²²And he informed me, and talked with me, and said, O Daniel, I am now come forth to give thee skill and understanding. Gabriel, "the angel of the Lord," came to Daniel to help him understand God's plan. (It is written for us all to understand God's plan). Everyone has their part in the end times.

 ²³At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth, and I am come to shew thee; for thou art greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision. The moment Daniel began praying, a command was given because God loved Daniel very much. Gabriel told Daniel to listen and understand the meaning of the vision that he saw. (When you pray for things of the spirit, God will always answer your prayers).

 ²⁴Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy. A declaration from the Angel of God was given to Daniel. (This 70 weeks would be 70 weeks of years put upon the people, or 490 years).

 ²⁵Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times. Note: Prince here is upper case. It will be 49 years plus 434 years from the time the command is given to rebuild Jerusalem, until the Anointed One comes. (This is a total of 483 years instead of the 490 years mentioned in verse 24). This would leave seven years unaccounted for at the time of Messiah's death. Better known as the gap theory. (Read appendix 90 and 91 of the companion bible for a better understanding of this topic).

 ²⁶And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined. Note: Prince here is lower case. After this period of 434 years, the Anointed One will be killed. Then a "prince" shall arise and destroy the city and the temple. (Again, notice the lower case prince). They will be overwhelmed with a flood of lies. Satan's type as the prince of Tyrus. (Ezekiel 28:2). Remember, the antichrist is a master at deception and lies.

 ²⁷And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate. This prince (antichrist), will make a seven-year treaty with the people, but after half that time, he will break his pledge and stop all the sacrifices. (The daily offering or communion). He will defile the sanctuary of God as the desolator "an entity." (Mark 13:14-26). This seven years will be shortened to five months, as stated in (Revelation 9), for the elects sake.

Daniel 10

 ¹In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a thing was revealed unto Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar; and the thing was true, but the time appointed was long: and he understood the thing, and had understanding of the vision. Persia is the the Iran of today. Daniel had another vision of events in the future. (Times of tribulation, wars and sorrows).

 ²In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks. He fasted and did not eat for 21 days.

 ³I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled. For 21 days Daniel prayed. No wine, no meat, no food.

 ⁴And in the four and twentieth day of the first month, as I was by the side of the great river, which is Hiddekel. Hiddekel is the Tigris river. Between Iraq and Iran of today. (Keep your eyes open for the trouble going on in the area).

 ⁵Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz. One of the Angels of God appeared before him.

 ⁶His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude. Gabriel and Michael are the angels God used for His messengers.

 ⁷And I Daniel alone saw the vision: for the men that were with me saw not the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them, so that they fled to hide themselves. Daniel saw the vision, but the others with him did not. They were frightened away by a great quake and hid themselves. (When God really speaks you will know it).

 ⁸Therefore I was left alone, and saw this great vision, and there remained no strength in me: for my comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength. When Daniel saw the frightening vision, he got scared and was about to pass out. (It can be an overwhelming experience when God talks to you).

 ⁹Yet heard I the voice of his words: and when I heard the voice of his words, then was I in a deep sleep on my face, and my face toward the ground. Again, this was an overwhelming experience for Daniel and he fainted.

 ¹⁰And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon the palms of my hands. Always stand in the presence of God or His messengers, don't fall on your face. God wants you to welcome His message, not fear it.

 ¹¹And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling. Stand up and listen to what I have to say to you, because God has sent me to you. Daniel stood up, but was still trembling with fear.

 ¹²Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words. God heard Daniel the first day he began to fast and pray for understanding. (Now He is answering Daniels prayers).

 ¹³But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia. For twenty-one days the evil spirit who overrules the kingdom of Persia blocked the way. But, Michael came to help him. (Daniel is dealing with the supernatural here).

 ¹⁴Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the vision is for many days. The message was for the end times. The fulfillment of prophecy in the future.

 ¹⁵And when he had spoken such words unto me, I set my face toward the ground, and I became dumb. Daniel was unable to speak a word.

 ¹⁶And, behold, one like the similitude of the sons of men touched my lips: then I opened my mouth, and spake, and said unto him that stood before me, O my lord, by the vision my sorrows are turned upon me, and I have retained no strength. The Angel touched Daniel and he was able to speak again. Daniel told the Angel he was terrified by his presence and had no strength left in him.

 ¹⁷For how can the servant of this my lord talk with this my lord? for as for me, straightway there remained no strength in me, neither is there breath left in me. How can I talk to you Daniel asked? The overwhelming experience drained Daniel.

 ¹⁸Then there came again and touched me one like the appearance of a man, and he strengthened me. The Angel touched Daniel and his strength returned.

 ¹⁹And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me. God loves you Daniel, calm yourself and be strong. As the Angel of God spoke these words, Daniel became stronger and was ready to hear the words of the Lord. (Remember that all strength and power comes from God when dealing with the supernatural).

 ²⁰Then said he, Knowest thou wherefore I come unto thee? and now will I return to fight with the prince of Persia: and when I am gone forth, lo, the prince of Grecia shall come. Back to fight against the prince of Persia and the prince of Greece. A great shaking in heaven. (Mark 13:25, Hebrews 12:26).

 ²¹But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince. The Angel (Michael), was there to tell Daniel what is written in the "Book of the Future."

Daniel 11

 ¹Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, even I, stood to confirm and to strengthen him. The same Angel of God still talking to Daniel.

 ²And now will I shew thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet three kings in Persia; and the fourth shall be far richer than they all: and by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against the realm of Grecia. I will show you what the future holds. Three Persian kings will reign, succeeded by a forth that is far richer then the others.

 ³And a mighty king shall stand up, that shall rule with great dominion, and do according to his will. The mighty king shall rise in Greece who will rule this vast kingdom. (The little horn of chapter 8:9).

 ⁴And when he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken, and shall be divided toward the four winds of heaven; and not to his posterity, nor according to his dominion which he ruled: for his kingdom shall be plucked up, even for others beside those. The kingdom will break apart and be divided into four weaker nations. His empire will be torn apart and given to others.

 ⁵And the king of the south shall be strong, and one of his princes; and he shall be strong above him, and have dominion; his dominion shall be a great dominion. One of the kings will increase in power. (The southern king Ptolemy Soter son of Lagus, king of Egypt). But, one of the kings own officials will rebel against him and take away his kingdom, making it even more powerful.

 ⁶And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the king's daughter of the south shall come to the king of the north to make an agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm; neither shall he stand, nor his arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her, and he that begat her, and he that strengthened her in these times. An alliance will be formed between the king of Syria and the king of Egypt. (In 252 B.C. Ptolemy II of Egypt gave his daughter Berenice in marriage to Antiochus II of Syria to conclude a treaty of peace between their two lands).

 ⁷But out of a branch of her roots shall one stand up in his estate, which shall come with an army, and shall enter into the fortress of the king of the north, and shall deal against them, and shall prevail. Her brother takes over as king of Egypt and he raises an army against the king of Syria and defeats him. (Berenice was murdered in Antioch by Antiochus It's former wife Laodice). Berenices brother Ptolemy III, who now ascended the Egyptian throne, declared was against the Seleucids to avenge his sister's murder.

 ⁸And shall also carry captives into Egypt their gods, with their princes, and with their precious vessels of silver and of gold; and he shall continue more years than the king of the north. The king of the south brought back with him all their idols, priceless gold and silver dishes. (For many years he will leave the Syrian king alone).

 ⁹So the king of the south shall come into his kingdom, and shall return into his own land. Meanwhile the king of Syria will invade Egypt briefly, but will soon return again to his own land.

 ¹⁰But his sons shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of great forces: and one shall certainly come, and overflow, and pass through: then shall he return, and be stirred up, even to his fortress. His son (Seleucus II), will assemble a mighty army and wage war against him defeating the Syrian king Antiochus III.

 ¹¹And the king of the south shall be moved with choler, and shall come forth and fight with him, even with the king of the north: and he shall set forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his hand. The king of Egypt, (Ptolemy IV), in great anger, will fight the vast forces of Syria and defeat them.

 ¹²And when he hath taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted up; and he shall cast down many ten thousands: but he shall not be strengthened by it. Filled with pride after this great victory, he will have many thousands killed. but his success will be short lived. Was Anwar Sadat a type? (He was called the prince of peace, till he was killed). Millions were slaughtered during the Iraq & Iran war. (Even their own children were used by these leaders to search out mine fields). A terrible war that accomplished nothing.

 ¹³For the king of the north shall return, and shall set forth a multitude greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain years with a great army and with much riches. Later the Syrian king will return with a fully equipped army far greater than the one he lost. (Possibly Antiochus III, who was later defeated by the Romans at Magnesia).

 ¹⁴And in those times there shall many stand up against the king of the south: also the robbers of thy people shall exalt themselves to establish the vision; but they shall fall. The third king of the south, (Ptolemy V, a mere child). Other nations will join him in a crusade against Egypt. Insurgents among your own people, the Jews, will join them, fulfilling prophecy, but will not succeed. (Jews used here are the Kenites, those who say they are Jews, but are from the synagogue of Satan). The Kenites exult themselves.

 ¹⁵So the king of the north shall come, and cast up a mount, and take the most fenced cities: and the arms of the south shall not withstand, neither his chosen people, neither shall there be any strength to withstand. The Syrian king and his allies will come and defeat Egypt and capture it. Quite a battle takes place here. (This is Antiochus III, describe his doings, which were a typical foreshadowing of his antitype, "the little horn," the yet future antichrist, described in verses 11:21 and 12:1, which show how the later portion can be fulfilled by an individual).

 ¹⁶But he that cometh against him shall do according to his own will, and none shall stand before him: and he shall stand in the glorious land, which by his hand shall be consumed. The Syrian king will march on unopposed; none will be able to stop him. He will enter the Glorious Land of Israel (Jerusalem), and pillage it.

 ¹⁷He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of his whole kingdom, and upright ones with him; thus shall he do: and he shall give him the daughter of women, corrupting her: but she shall not stand on his side, neither be for him. Plotting to conquer all of Egypt; he will form an alliance with the Egyptian king, giving him a daughter in marriage, so that she can work for him from within. But his plan will fail. (There are some real radicals in the Islamic faiths).

 ¹⁸After this shall he turn his face unto the isles, and shall take many: but a prince for his own behalf shall cause the reproach offered by him to cease; without his own reproach he shall cause it to turn upon him. Then he will turn his attention to the coastal cities conquering many. But a general will stop him and cause him to retreat.

 ¹⁹Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own land: but he shall stumble and fall, and not be found. He will then turn homeward again, but will have trouble on the way, and disappear. (A severe conflict, like a civil war).

 ²⁰Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes in the glory of the kingdom: but within few days he shall be destroyed, neither in anger, nor in battle. His successor (Seleucus IV), sent (Heliodorus), to rob and desecrate the temple in Jerusalem. But, he mysteriously disappeared. They say he was poisoned! (This ends the historical portion, which has been fulfilled now, but was then future). (Verse 11:20 - 12:3 passes on to the time which is still future to us). (Look at the funds or taxes they are raising from oil sold to us).

Future reference: (Still future to us)

Daniel 11:21-31 "The vile person" (The little horn)
11:32-35 "The people" (Tried)
11:36-45 "The willful king" (The little horn)
12:1-3 "The people" (Delivered)

 ²¹And in his estate shall stand up a vile person, to whom they shall not give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries. Then a "vile person" not directly in line for royal succession, will come in peaceably and with flatteries to take over the kingdom. (A "vile person" one of the twelve titles given to the antichrist). He will become the head of every religion. He is a master of disguise. (Whatever your belief is, he will be the head of it). Don't think this will be a big destructive deal like many are taught, he comes in peacefully and prosperously.

 ²²And with the arms of a flood shall they be overflown from before him, and shall be broken; yea, also the prince of the covenant. From his "flood of lies and deception," all opposition will be swept away before him. (Even those who think they are real Christians will fall for his deception).

 ²³And after the league made with him he shall work deceitfully: for he shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people. His (the little horn) promises will be worthless. His method will be deception and he will become strong with a small group of people. These small people are the "Goy Goy" a heathen people, or the kenites. (Also known as the "qayin" kah-yin, Hebrew 7014 in the Strong's Concordance).

 ²⁴He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers' fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: yea, and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a time. He will bring peace to the world and spread the wealth among the people. He will besiege and capture powerful strongholds throughout his dominion. (This will only last for a five month period). Can you be bought? He will give you what you want at a big price. "YOUR SOUL if he could." But, he can't have it, it already belongs to God. However, he can draw you his way if you let him through deception.

 ²⁵And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the south with a great army; and the king of the south shall be stirred up to battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand: for they shall forecast devices against him. He will raise up a great army of kenites, or "small people" (qayin), against the king of the south.

 ²⁶Yea, they that feed of the portion of his meat shall destroy him, and his army shall overflow: and many shall fall down slain. Those of his own family will bring his downfall. Many will die a spiritual death. Why? They are going to worship Satan. "Don't let yourself be one of them my friend."

 ²⁷And both of these kings' hearts shall be to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper: for yet the end shall be at the time appointed. Both these kings will plot against each other at the conference table, attempting to deceive each other. (Treachery is the name of the game here). Can't trust anyone. (Remember that God is still in control).

 ²⁸Then shall he return into his land with great riches; and his heart shall be against the holy covenant; and he shall do exploits, and return to his own land. The Syrian king will return home with great riches, while marching against real Christians.

 ²⁹At the time appointed he shall return, and come toward the south; but it shall not be as the former, or as the latter. When the appointed time has come he will march against the south again, but things will be a little different this time.

 ³⁰For the ships of Chittim shall come against him: therefore he shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant: so shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant. Ships of Chittim: They will come against him and scare him off. (Those who he deceived). "Also know as the bruisers." i.e. God's Elect. (Genesis 3:15).

 ³¹And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate. Angered by having to retreat, the Syrian king will pillage Jerusalem and pollute the Sanctuary, putting a stop to the daily sacrifice. Christ being that daily sacrifice. "Lo, I come in the volume of the book it is written of me, to do thy will, O God." (Hebrews 10:7). When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, whoso readeth, let him understand. (Matthew 24:15). The abomination that makes desolate. (From this point on, he is enforced by Satan).

 ³²And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits. He will flatter those who hate the things of God and win them over to his side. But, the true people of God with the help of the "Holy Spirit" will do great things.

 ³³And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days. They = God's Elect. Those with spiritual understanding will have a vast ministry of teaching in the later days. They will be weakened for a short time (in the great tribulation), but they will come back.

 ³⁴Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries. These pressures will subside with a little help from God. But, some ungodly men will come to help them only to take advantage with them.

 ³⁵And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed. Some of God's elect will stumble and fall in those days. But, this will only make them stronger in the Word and more pure until the end of their trials at God's appointed time. (God's elect do not give up, they hang till the end).

 ³⁶And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done. The king will do exactly as he pleases, claiming to be greater than God. He will blaspheme God, and shall prosper until his time is up. "The king is the false messiah." (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12). Lets go to the book of Thessalonians for a couple of verses.

  Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition. (2 Thessalonians 2:3). Do not be deceived! Christ will not return until the "Great Apostasy" (rebellion against God, fallen away of the church, or one who gives up their professed beliefs). And the son of perdition, one of Satan's names, be revealed. "The false messiah." (Revelation 17:8). Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. (2 Thessalonians 2:4). He will defy God and will try to take the place of God, sitting in the temple of God in Mount Zion. (Isaiah 14:12-16). He will deceive many and God will let him. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie. (2 Thessalonians 2:11). Why? Because they will not except the truth of the God's Word. If you want to be ignorant of God's Word and follow lies, deception, and traditions of men; God will send you strong delusion to believe those lies. He will close your eyes to the truth. (Isaiah 29:10). Look at how people are so comfortable with their teachings. Comfortable with their spirit of slumber.

 ³⁷Neither shall he regard the God of his fathers, nor the desire of women, nor regard any god: for he shall magnify himself above all. He will have no regard for any God, but only boast of himself. (Written in the old and new testament). Did you ever know anyone who constantly boasts about themselves? (Wait till you hear his line of bull and deception).

 ³⁸But in his estate shall he honour the God of forces: and a god whom his fathers knew not shall he honour with gold, and silver, and with precious stones, and pleasant things. He worships the god of fortresses. He has it all. He will grant "all desires" that you may have if you want it and worship him.

 ³⁹Thus shall he do in the most strong holds with a strange god, whom he shall acknowledge and increase with glory: and he shall cause them to rule over many, and shall divide the land for gain. He will have great success against the strongest fortresses. He honors those who submit to him, appointing them to positions of authority and dividing the land among them. For a price you will receive his mark. Worship him and have what you want. "The great apostasy." (Give up your professed beliefs). Many will worship him instead of Christ. (Those who have the "seal of God" in their minds, will not fall for him). How are you set my friend?

 ⁴⁰And at the time of the end shall the king of the south push at him: and the king of the north shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter into the countries, and shall overflow and pass over. At the time of the end, the king of the south will attack him again, and the king of the north will react with the strength and fury of a whirlwind. With his vast army and warships he will enter many countries to crush them. (The one world order of the end time).

 ⁴¹He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many countries shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, even Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon. Edom = Rush, i.e. Russia. He will invade various lands on the way, including Israel, the glorious land. He will overthrow governments of many nations, but some will escape. (Spiritual warfare here).

 ⁴²He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries: and the land of Egypt shall not escape. Egypt and many other lands will be occupied. (Again, the one world order).

 ⁴³But he shall have power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt: and the Libyans and the Ethiopians shall be at his steps. He will capture all the treasures of Egypt, and the Libyans and Ethiopians shall be his servants. (All of Africa and one world-ism). A worldwide spiritual take-over. (The religious head of all religions).

 ⁴⁴But tidings out of the east and out of the north shall trouble him: therefore he shall go forth with great fury to destroy, and utterly to make away many. The news from the east and the north will alarm him and he will return in great anger to destroy as he goes. He makes war with the saints (God's elect, the bruisers), of God. (Revelation 13:7). Don't worry... "If you have the seal of God, he can't touch you." That is the truth of God's Word.

 ⁴⁵And he shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and none shall help him. He will come to a halt between Jerusalem and the sea, and this will be his final downfall. "The final downfall of Satan." (Isaiah 14), He goes into the abyss. And they will say: Is this the man that made the earth to tremble? Is this the man that deceived everyone? DO NOT BE DECEIVED!

Daniel 12

 ¹And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. Michael, the mighty angelic prince who stands guard over our nation, will stand and fight for us in heaven against satanic forces. (Revelation 12:7-8). And there will be a time of trouble such as never before. (The great tribulation). Just as the day of Jacobs trouble (Jeremiah 30:7-10). The trouble is for our enemies, not for us. "Remember the three children Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the furnace, and Daniel in the lion's den." (There's no trouble for God's elect). "God is with His true children (those who are believers), till the end."

 ²And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. This is one of the most misunderstood verses in the bible. Sleep in the dust = "A statement of degradation." Those who lie dead, are spiritually dead. (Not those lying dead in the ground). At Christ's return, those who are spiritually dead (the unlearned and deceived ones), are ashamed for not learning the truth. (A bunch of pew-potatoes). They go to church to look so good, but never learn the truth. At that seventh trump when Christ returns, we will all be changed to our spiritual bodies. However, we will still have a mortal soul till the end of the millennium (the 1,000 years of teaching).

 ³And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. Those who are wise (God's elect), will turn many to righteousness. (God's elect will always try to set an example, or plant a seed of truth).

 ⁴But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased. Bad translation here: Daniel was instructed to seal the book till the end times. A time when many will run to and fro That brings about the apostasy. knowledge shall be increased: This knowledge is "wicked" knowledge and false teachings. Look at all the false teachings, false doctrines, and traditions of men being taught in churches today.

 ⁵Then I Daniel looked, and, behold, there stood other two, the one on this side of the bank of the river, and the other on that side of the bank of the river. Daniel looked and saw two men (Angelic beings), on each bank of the river. (Taking place in Iran and Iraq).

 ⁶And one said to the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, How long shall it be to the end of these wonders? How long till the end of the world one said to the other?

 ⁷And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished. The antichrist (the little horn), shall scatter the power of the holy people, or try to crush the power of God's people. (2 Thessalonians 2). The 3-1/2 years will be shortened to five months. (Revelation 9:4-5, Mark 13:20). This time was shortened for the elect's sake. "Those who have the seal of God in their foreheads." (i.e. in your mind).

 ⁸And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? Daniel could not fully understand even with all his wisdom.

 ⁹And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end. The word will be opened up to all at the end times. "It is open to us today." (The wise will understand the season of the fig tree parable). Christ said to learn it. (Mark 13:28).

 ¹⁰Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand. The wise will be purified by trials and persecution, but they will understand the truth. The wicked will continue in their wickedness, and none of them will understand. We were all warned before in (Matthew 24, Mark 13), as well as other places in the bible.

 ¹¹And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days. From the time the daily sacrifice was taken away (Christ's crucifixion was the daily sacrifice), till the abomination of desolation is set up, is 1,290 days. (A.D. 33 till 1948 = 1,290 of Daniels days). (33 years from 1948 = 1915). (1915 divided by 1,290 = 1.48). There is 1.48 of our years in one day of Daniel's, making it a common denominator. (Read appendix 89, 90 of the King James Companion Bible).

 ¹²Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days. Blessed are those who wait until the 1335th day. Take 1.48 x 1335 = the year 1975. (This would just be the season, or beginning of the end times). Read appendix 90 for further reference. (We are in the time of the last generation).

 ¹³But go thou thy way till the end be: for thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the days. Go now Daniel till the end of your life and rest; for you will rise again in the end times. "Daniel had all his wisdom from God." How is your wisdom? The time is near; DO NOT BE DECEIVED!

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Keep The Faith,
Bart