Daniel 7:11

KJV

I 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.

KJV (with Strong's)

I beheld {H1934}{H2370} then {H116} because {H4481} of the voice {H7032} of the great {H7260} words {H4406} which the horn {H7162} spake {H4449}: I beheld {H1934}{H2370} even till {H5705} the beast {H2423} was slain {H6992}, and his body {H1655} destroyed {H7}, and given {H3052} to the burning {H3346} flame {H785}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"I kept watching. Then, because of the arrogant words which the horn was speaking, I watched as the animal was killed; its body was destroyed; and it was given over to be burned up completely.

Berean Standard Bible

Then I kept watching because of the arrogant words the horn was speaking. As I continued to watch, the beast was slain, and its body was destroyed and thrown into the blazing fire.

American Standard Version

I beheld at that time because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake; I beheld even till the beast was slain, and its body destroyed, and it was given to be burned with fire.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 7:11 vividly portrays the dramatic and decisive judgment of the oppressive fourth beast and its blasphemous "little horn" within Daniel's apocalyptic vision. This verse marks a pivotal moment where divine justice intervenes, leading to the complete annihilation of this tyrannical power. It underscores God's ultimate sovereignty over all earthly kingdoms, demonstrating that no human or demonic force, no matter how formidable or arrogant, can ultimately withstand the Almighty's decree, culminating in the beast's destruction by fire.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 7:11 is situated at a crucial juncture within Daniel's vision of the four great beasts, which commences in [Daniel 7:1](/daniel/7-1 "Daniel 7:1 - Daniel's Vision of Four Beasts"). The preceding verses describe the rise of four successive world empires, culminating in a terrifying fourth beast, "dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly" ([Daniel 7:7](/daniel/7-7 "Daniel 7:7 - The Fourth Beast")). From this beast emerges a "little horn" ([Daniel 7:8](/daniel/7-8 "Daniel 7:8 - The Little Horn")) that speaks "great words against the most High" and persecutes the saints. Daniel 7:9-10 then introduces a profound heavenly court scene, where the "Ancient of Days" takes His seat, and judgment is set. It is in direct response to the "voice of the great words which the horn spake" that the judgment described in Daniel 7:11 is executed, signifying a divine, immediate, and irreversible consequence for blasphemous defiance.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Daniel, set during the Babylonian exile and extending into the Persian period, addresses a people living under foreign domination. The visions of successive empires (Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Greek, and a final, undefined, oppressive kingdom often associated with Rome or a future anti-God power) provided both warning and hope. Culturally, the concept of divine judgment over wicked rulers was well-established in the ancient Near East, though Daniel's vision presents it with unique apocalyptic imagery. The "burning flame" imagery evokes ancient practices of destruction and purification, as well as divine wrath, often seen in Old Testament judgments against idolatry and rebellion. This context assures the exiles that despite the apparent power of their oppressors, God remains sovereign over history and will ultimately bring all unrighteous rule to an end.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Daniel and biblical prophecy. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, asserting God's ultimate authority over all earthly powers, no matter how formidable. The beast's destruction demonstrates that God's justice is certain and inescapable, even for those who seemingly defy Him with impunity. Secondly, it underscores the **Consequences of Blasphemy and Arrogance**, as the "great words" of the horn directly provoke God's decisive wrath, illustrating that prideful rebellion against the Most High leads to utter ruin. Thirdly, it signifies the **End of Tyranny and Oppression**, offering a profound message of hope that all anti-God regimes, which persecute the righteous, have a finite lifespan and will ultimately face complete annihilation. This theme resonates with the broader prophetic narrative of God establishing an [everlasting kingdom](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Everlasting Kingdom") that will consume all other kingdoms. Finally, the imagery of the "burning flame" serves as a **Foreshadowing of Final Destruction**, echoing later prophetic visions, such as in [Revelation 19:20](/revelation/19-20 "Revelation 19:20 - The Beast Cast into the Lake of Fire"), where the beast and false prophet are cast into the lake of fire, symbolizing the complete and irreversible end of evil.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **beheld (Aramaic, _chăzâʼ'_):** This Aramaic verb signifies "to gaze upon," "to see," or "to perceive mentally." In Daniel's visions, it emphasizes his direct observation of the unfolding prophetic events, lending authenticity and immediacy to his account. It's not merely a casual glance but an intense, focused witnessing of divine revelation.
* **great words (Aramaic, _rabrab millâh'_):** The combination of _rabrab_ (meaning "huge" or "domineering") and _millâh_ (meaning "word," "command," or "discourse") describes speech that is exceedingly boastful, arrogant, and blasphemous. These are not just loud words, but words of immense self-exaltation and defiance against God, directly challenging His authority and sovereignty. It is this specific quality of speech that triggers the divine judgment.
* **burning flame (Aramaic, _yᵉqêdâʼ ʼêsh'_):** This phrase combines _yᵉqêdâʼ_ (a "conflagration" or "burning") with _ʼêsh_ (meaning "fire"). It denotes a complete, consuming, and irreversible destruction by fire. In biblical contexts, fire often symbolizes divine judgment, purification, and the utter annihilation of that which is unholy or rebellious. Here, it signifies the absolute end of the beast's power and existence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I beheld then because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake:"** Daniel's observation is directly linked to the horn's audacious and blasphemous speech. The "voice" here is not just sound, but the substance and character of the horn's defiant pronouncements against the Most High, which are the immediate catalyst for the divine court's judgment.
* **"I beheld [even] till the beast was slain,"** Daniel continues to witness the unfolding events, emphasizing the direct and swift consequence of the horn's actions. The beast, which embodies the oppressive kingdom from which the horn arose, is itself subjected to capital punishment, signifying the termination of its power and existence.
* **"and his body destroyed,"** This clause emphasizes the completeness of the beast's demise. "Destroyed" (from Aramaic H7, _ʼăbad'_) means to "perish" or "be lost," indicating not just defeat but utter annihilation. The physical body, representing the tangible manifestation of its power, is utterly dismantled.
* **"and given to the burning flame."** The final act of judgment is the consignment of the beast's remnants to a consuming fire. This imagery denotes a final, irreversible, and absolute destruction, signifying that the beast's power and influence are not merely suppressed but entirely obliterated, never to rise again.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 7:11 employs several powerful literary devices. **Symbolism** is paramount, with the "beast" symbolizing a tyrannical earthly empire and the "little horn" representing a blasphemous, oppressive ruler or power arising from it. The "burning flame" is a potent symbol of divine judgment, utter destruction, and purification. The verse also uses **Foreshadowing**, as the beast's fiery end anticipates the ultimate fate of all ungodly powers and individuals in eschatological judgment. There is a strong element of **Dramatic Irony** in the narrative: the horn speaks "great words" in its arrogance, yet these very words precipitate its catastrophic downfall, highlighting the futility of defying divine authority. The vivid, almost cinematic, description of Daniel "beholding" the events adds to the **Dramatic Effect**, immersing the reader in the vision's intensity and the certainty of God's decisive intervention.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 7:11 serves as a profound theological statement on God's ultimate sovereignty and unwavering justice. It assures believers that despite the apparent triumph of wicked powers and the blasphemous arrogance of those who defy God, their dominion is temporary and subject to divine decree. The destruction of the beast and the horn is a powerful demonstration that God will not tolerate unbridled evil and blasphemy indefinitely. This judgment is not arbitrary but a righteous response to the "great words" spoken against the Most High, affirming that moral accountability extends to nations and their rulers. The verse provides a foundational truth that all earthly kingdoms, no matter how mighty, are ultimately subservient to the eternal kingdom of God, which will never be destroyed.

* [Psalm 2:4-5](/psalm/2-4 "Psalm 2:4-5 - God's Scorn for Rebellious Nations")
* [Revelation 19:20](/revelation/19-20 "Revelation 19:20 - The Beast and False Prophet Cast into the Lake of Fire")
* [Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "Daniel 7:14 - The Son of Man Receives an Everlasting Dominion")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 7:11 offers profound reassurance and a sober warning for believers in every generation. In a world often marked by oppressive regimes, arrogant leaders, and widespread blasphemy, this verse firmly declares that God is enthroned above all earthly powers. It reminds us that no human or demonic force can ultimately thwart God's purposes or escape His righteous judgment. This truth should instill courage and perseverance in those who suffer under tyranny, knowing that their oppressors' days are numbered and that divine justice will ultimately prevail. It calls us to patience and trust in God's perfect timing, even when evil seems to flourish. Furthermore, the fate of the "little horn" serves as a solemn warning against pride, self-exaltation, and speaking against God. It underscores the spiritual danger of arrogance and reminds us that true authority and power belong to God alone. Our response should be humility, reverence, and unwavering allegiance to the Most High, confident that His kingdom will endure forever.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the certainty of God's judgment on oppressive powers, as depicted in Daniel 7:11, impact your perspective on current global events?**
* **In what ways might we, even subtly, speak "great words" against God or assume authority that belongs only to Him?**
* **How does this verse encourage you to persevere in faith when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges or injustices?**

### FAQ
**What do the "beast" and "horn" represent in Daniel 7:11?**

Answer: In Daniel's vision, the "beast" represents a powerful, oppressive world empire. While interpretations vary, it is generally understood to symbolize a final, exceedingly dreadful kingdom that is distinct from the previous three (often identified as Babylon, Medo-Persia, and Greece). Many scholars associate this fourth beast with the Roman Empire or a future anti-God global power. The "little horn" that emerges from this beast symbolizes a specific, arrogant, and blasphemous ruler or a concentrated manifestation of anti-God power that rises within or from this final empire. This horn is characterized by its boastful speech against God and its persecution of the saints, ultimately leading to its destruction as described in [Daniel 7:11](/daniel/7-11 "Daniel 7:11 - The Beast Slain and Destroyed").

**What is the significance of the "burning flame" in the destruction of the beast?**

Answer: The "burning flame" signifies a complete, irreversible, and absolute destruction. In biblical imagery, fire is often associated with divine judgment, purification, and the utter annihilation of evil. Unlike the other beasts in Daniel 7, whose dominion was taken away but their lives prolonged for a season ([Daniel 7:12](/daniel/7-12 "Daniel 7:12 - Lives Prolonged for a Season")), the fourth beast and its horn are utterly consumed by fire. This emphasizes that this final, blasphemous power will not simply fade away or be replaced, but will be completely obliterated from existence, never to rise again. It points to a final, decisive end to its tyranny and influence, underscoring the severity and finality of God's judgment.

**How does this verse relate to God's justice?**

Answer: Daniel 7:11 is a powerful affirmation of God's perfect justice. It demonstrates that God is not indifferent to the arrogance, blasphemy, and oppression perpetrated by earthly powers. The judgment is directly triggered by the "great words which the horn spake," highlighting that God holds rulers and nations accountable for their actions and defiance. The swift and total destruction of the beast and horn illustrates that divine justice is certain and inescapable. This provides immense comfort to those who suffer under injustice, assuring them that ultimate accountability rests with God, who will ultimately set all wrongs right and establish His righteous kingdom. It aligns with the theme of God judging the nations found throughout scripture, such as in [Psalm 9:8](/psalm/9-8 "Psalm 9:8 - God Judges the World in Righteousness").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 7:11, with its dramatic depiction of the beast's destruction by fire due to the horn's blasphemy, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the triumph of Jesus Christ over all opposing powers and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. While the beast and horn represent historical and future anti-God forces, their demise foreshadows the definitive victory of the Lamb of God. Christ, as the true [Son of Man](/daniel/7-13 "Daniel 7:13 - The Son of Man Coming with Clouds"), received dominion, glory, and a kingdom that shall not pass away ([Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "Daniel 7:14 - The Son of Man's Eternal Dominion")). The "burning flame" that consumes the beast anticipates the final judgment executed by Christ at His second coming, where all enemies will be put under His feet ([1 Corinthians 15:25](/1_corinthians/15-25 "1 Corinthians 15:25 - Christ Must Reign")). The arrogance and blasphemy of the horn are utterly crushed by the one to whom "every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth" ([Philippians 2:10](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10 - Every Knee Shall Bow to Jesus")). Thus, Daniel 7:11 is not merely a historical prophecy but a powerful testament to the absolute sovereignty of Christ, who will ultimately judge the living and the dead, consigning all evil to eternal destruction and reigning forever in His glorious, righteous kingdom ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ's Triumphant Return") and [Revelation 20:10](/revelation/20-10 "Revelation 20:10 - The Devil Cast into the Lake of Fire")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Revelation 19:20

And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.

Revelation 20:10

And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet [are], and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

2 Thessalonians 2:8

And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:

Daniel 7:8

I 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.

Revelation 18:8

Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong [is] the Lord God who judgeth her.

Daniel 8:25

And 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.

Daniel 11:45

And 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.